| I joined WITW Bay Area Chapter in Septemeber 1990. Whew! That seems so very long ago, and yet, is seems like just yesterday. Back then, gosh that sounds ancient, it seemed as though women riders were an oddity and a mere curiosity. I can remember the stares from people that coudn't believe they were seeing a "girl" on a bike, let alone one on a big Harley dressed in black leather. Then of course, it was a real shocker to many who knew me as this professional female who they were used to seeing only in tailored clothes and cocktail dresses. Well, I have to tell you, I never, ever liked motorcycles. My uncle was killed on one when I was only 3 years old, and my best friend's fiance was killed while riding his Harley two weeks before their wedding. I vowed never to have anything to do with motorcycles. I like many, had an image of long greasy hair, tattoos all over and stand up blue jeans as motorcycle riders. Motorcycle gangs and Easy Rider movies. WOW! Has that image changed, as has my feelings for bikers.
Joining WITW helped me get a grasp on what biking could be and should be about. In 1990 I learned to respect this big piece of iron and love the gals that I rode with, some of whom are still part of our Bay Area Chapter. As the love of the sport grew by the female population, so did our chapter along with other WITW chapters around the world. I can't explain my feelings to you, but the comradery of the girls and the wonderful things we do for others are astounding sometimes. The unselfishness of this marvelous bond of women is beyond words. WITW has taught us not only to grow as individuals, but it has paved the way for women to participate and be a large part of the motorcycle fantasy, which has become a reality.
The love of this sport and the chapters that unite us is proven over and over in every aspect of living, including making sure that our members and others that need help are not overlooked or alone. We have overcome everything from ridicule from men who thought that women were invading a male dominated area, to riding in extreme heat, cold and rain. We have earned their respect and a place in the motorcycle industry that can never be taken away from us.
I love WITW and all that we stand for. I have been blessed with having with having been able to get in at the beginning of a sport that is now envied by those who don't ride and loved by those who do. I am honored to be able to be part of a superb group of gals who come from all walks of life and who all share a common bond.
We are WOMAN, We are Women in the Wind. Thank You Becky Brown, and thank you girls. Remeber, every door you open holds a new experience. Life is short- Live the Journey, and always keep your angel on your shoulder.
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