September 16: Women’s International Motorcycle Association Guest Speaker

What an honor and a privilege it was to be the guest speaker this evening at the Women’s International Motorcycle Association (WIMA) United States Rally in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. I was so inspired to be surrounded by so many amazing and accomplished female riders and humbled to have the opportunity to share my message with them. Their responses really encouraged me.

Yesterday I flew from Portland, Oregon to Dallas Fort Worth and then on to Asheville where I was picked up by friend and WIMA president Michelle Lamphere. While on the airplane I read half of a great book on public speaking recommended to me by my mentor, former Olympian, and speaker Ruben Gonzalez.  

I was so motivated by what I read that I ended up staying up until 3am last night revising and improving my speech. I focused more on facing fears and fleshing out the concept of “Living Life at Full Throttle” by asking “What would I do if fear was not my first thought?”

Tonight as I shared anecdotes and stories about the positive life lessons I learned on the road, I was so encouraged and heartened by the response of the sixty women in the audience. Their laughter, eye contact, and tears in response to my vulnerability and heartfelt sentiment was a real affirmation to me to continue in my quest to obtain more speaking opportunities.

Afterwards, many of the women came up to me to tell me what my words meant to them and asked for personalized copies of my book. One woman gave me a hand knitted prayer scarf, others prayed for me, and many of them hugged me in thanks.

Although I was not able to ride to the rally as it wasn’t feasible to take so many days off at the beginning of the school year, I was still acknowledged by receiving the award for “most countries ridden on a motorcycle.” What a great bunch of women! I can’t wait to ride with them at the international rally next year in Portland.