By Heather Wilson

The Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally celebrated its 26th year in 2018, attracting 238 participants to Front Royal, Va., June 21-23.

This was the first women-focused rally I had attended. Growing up in the industry, it’s no surprise that I’m mostly surrounded by men. It’s just the nature of the sport. But the number of women motorcyclists is growing, with the Motorcycle Industry Council saying women now account for 14 percent of motorcycle owners.

What I love about motorcycling and our AMA members is that we are so diverse, and there is something for everyone. Whether an event is women-focused, brand-specific or touring-oriented—you can find something you enjoy.

The women at the MAWMR were incredibly welcoming, and many knew each other from attending the event year after year. Cyndi Brandt, the organization’s vice-president, really took me under her wing and made sure I felt welcome at the event, as did many other officers and attendees.

Group rides were scheduled daily for breakfast and lunch and workshops took place throughout the day. A few off-site, non-motorcycling activities also took place during the event, such as touring caverns or kayaking. If you’re someone who enjoys motorcycling but also just enjoys hanging out—this is a great event.

A seminar I attended, presented by Tamela Rich, really hit home for me. An avid motorcycle traveler, author and seminar speaker, Rich is a joy to be around.

She talked about how fear is a common factor for women when they consider solo travel on a motorcycle, and she offered some ways women can work through that feeling.

She also discussed how she defines traveler types. Do we enjoy attending festivals or visiting art museums along the way? Do we enjoy learning about history or culture on our rides? Do we want to stop at the most unique and tasty restaurants? Maybe we just love the scenery. (That’s me!) Lastly, maybe we just want to meet new people in our journey.

Sure, it’s cool to understand what type of things we enjoy as motorcyclists, but this exercise is excellent for determining if someone you know or meet might be a good travel partner. If you don’t enjoy doing the same things, then maybe it won’t make for the best trip.

On Saturday, attendees lined up to parade through the town of Front Royal, led by the mayor and a motorcycle law enforcement contingent. Although the rain was a bit of a downer, it didn’t stop these women. The town’s residents loved the parade and came out of their houses and businesses to wave to the riders.

At the final night’s banquet, women shared stories of how motorcycling has positively affected their lives and helped them through hardships. I won’t lie, I’m a sap, but I wasn’t the only one in the room crying happy tears. These stories were so meaningful and conveyed just how motorcycling develops a community. After these stories, a presentation about charitable donations began.

The event not only serves as a gathering for women riders, but as a fundraiser for women and their families facing the financial hardship associated with cancer. The amount raised this year totaled $10,551.19 for Help for Oncology Problems and Emotional Support, based in New Freedom, Pa., and $10,237.69 for Pink Out Inc., based in Hanover, Pa.

The 2019 event is scheduled for June 20-22 in Front Royal, Va. Registration opens Jan. 1. For more info about this event, visit mawmr.org.