When the Cessnock Mitsubishi Australian Postie Bike Grand Prix kicked off in Cessnock back in 2014, it was the first motorcycle street race in the country since 1997.
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Fast forward four years and the popular event is set to make history again, with this year’s event featuring the very first dedicated female race in the country.
“Ten thousand people turned up in the first year and it has grown from there,” event director Dave Robinson said. “This year, to grow it further, we are looking at a dedicated female race – it’s going to be the first dedicated all female race in Australia.”
The ambassador for the inaugural female race will be lauded Cessnock rider and daughter of racing icon Robert ‘Beetle’ Bailey, Karina Bailey.
Karina said that, surprisingly, the nerves kicked in when she learned of the all-female race.
“I was pretty excited and also a little nervous,” she explained. “I pretty much started training right away and stopped eating all of the junk food. I was also very honoured to be named ambassador.”
She added that all women should think about signing up for what promises to be the hallmark event this year.
“Anyone and everyone can come and have a go, so why not?,” she said. “Although I would advise getting on a postie bike beforehand because they’re totally different to a normal bike.”
Mr Robinson added that it seemed fitting that the milestone be met in Cessnock.
“It’s appropriate that we break that ground here in Cessnock because Cessnock is the home of motorcycling in Australia,” he said.
“It’s also good for sport in general. Female sport is taking off and for too long females have been left on the sidelines of all forms of sport.”
That sentiment is echoed by the sport’s governing body, Motorcycling NSW, who have fully embraced the concept.
“Recognising the value of this event, Motorcycling NSW have agreed to fund the day licences for any female competitor in this event,” Mr Robinson said.
Race sponsor SMW Drilling Services have also come on board to ensure maximum participation by funding the entry fee for all competitors in the female race.
The company’s bike will also be pink and they will be raising money for breast cancer awareness on the day.
Mr Robinson said the event would be raising money for local schools and drought relief.
The Cessnock Mitsubishi Australian Postie Bike Grand Prix is on Sunday, November 18.
For more information on how to register, visit www.cessnockmotorcycleclub.com.au.
