Thundersport to launch women's championship

A step forward or back for women's motorcycle sport?

THUNDERSPORT GB has announced that it will launch Britain's first national women's championship in 2013.

Women have had a presence in the generally male-dominated world of motorcycle racing for years, but never before has there been an exclusive competition. 

The decision to establish a formal national championship is a natural one. Thundersport boss Dave Stewart said: 'There are more females racing bike in this country than you might actually think and they all pit their wits on equal terms against their male counterparts in championships across the UK, albeit their numbers are somewhat scattered.'

'Don't think for a moment these girls are in any way uncompetitive, their effort, grit and determination is so great, they race these intercontinental ballistic missiles faster than most men could even dream of.'

The competition will be sponsored by Buff, and will allow competitors to gain points whichever championship they choose to race in at Thundersport GB including Aprilia Superteens, Aprilia RRV450GP, Supertwins, Thundersport 500, Formula & Superstock 600's, up to GP1.

The question is - do women need their own championship? Or should they demand to compete on equal terms?