Why Are Women Intimidated to Participate in Mountain Bike Races?
For many women, the idea of entering a mountain bike race can feel daunting. Despite the growing number of female riders, there are still barriers that discourage participation in competitive mountain biking. Understanding these challenges is the first step to creating a more inclusive environment—one that inspires more women to embrace the thrill of racing and the joy of progression.
The Fear of Not Being Fast Enough
One of the biggest concerns women express before entering a race is the fear of not being fast enough. The thought of holding others up or feeling out of place can be overwhelming, especially when mountain biking is often perceived as being all about speed and competition.
But the truth is, mountain biking is just as much about personal growth, confidence, and connection as it is about pace. Most race events cater to a wide range of abilities, and organisers are increasingly focused on creating supportive and encouraging environments. It’s about the experience and the journey—not just the finish line.
Success Stories: From Skills Program to Podium
This year, an inspiring group of women proved just how transformative support and structured training can be. Starting with a three-week skills program and one-on-one coaching early in the year, they progressed to a six-week race preparation program before tackling their first event: Shred & Flow, held in July at Sugar Bag MTB Park, Caloundra.
Meet the Riders
Mardi: With two sons already racing, she decided it was time to swap spectating for joining the fun on the trails.
Rachel: A natural athlete from other sports, she wanted to give mountain biking a try—and is now completely hooked.
Wendy: A mother of four, looking for a new challenge she could share with her partner, and to upskill ahead of the Noosa Enduro.
The Six-Week Race Program
Throughout the program, we broke down what race day looks like—format, flow, and mindset. We rode and sessioned each trail multiple times to build familiarity, confidence, and line choice. Local riders and podium winners, Jess Hoskin and Kirily Gates, joined us to share their knowledge, demonstrating their lines and showing us how to set up our bikes for race day best.
The women showed up every week, committed to learning and pushing themselves—and it paid off. Every single one of them stood on the podium at their debut race, an incredible reflection of their effort, teamwork, and the power of community.
Their transformation was inspiring to watch. They not only gained skill and confidence but also built strong friendships—cheering for each other, celebrating every win, and supporting each other through every challenge.
The ‘Diamond Hour’ Initiative
To further encourage female participation, race organiser Rocky Trail introduced the Diamond Hour—a dedicated time slot on race day for women to ride the trails at their own pace, without pressure or interference from other riders. This initiative has been a game-changer in helping women feel more confident and supported during their first races.
Overcoming Barriers with Community
The mountain biking community plays a crucial role in breaking down barriers. Coaches, organisers, and fellow riders all help transform apprehension into excitement. The friendships built on the trails provide more than just motivation—they create a lasting support network that empowers women to keep showing up and challenging themselves.
Conclusion: Join the Adventure
The journey from self-doubt to success is made possible by community, encouragement, and inclusive opportunities. Every time a woman shares her story, she inspires others to take that first step—to give it a go, no matter how uncertain they feel.
So ask yourself:
What barriers have held you back from trying something new?
And how can we better support each other to overcome them?
Together, by fostering a welcoming community and addressing the challenges women face, we can open the trails to more riders than ever before. Whether you’re just starting or ready to race, there’s a place for you in this sport—and we’ll be cheering you on.
To stay informed on our 2026 Race programs, please email us.
“I can’t thank you enough, Jo, for such a safe, confidence-building introduction to this awesome sport. What a wicked ride it’s been so far—and it’s only just the start.”