RAISING THE BAR FOR WOMEN IN MOTORCYCLING
Story : Andy McGechan , www . BikesportNZ . com
Two girls to watch in the junior women ’ s motocross scene in New Zealand are Penny and Hazel Lang , says Motorcycling New Zealand ( MNZ ) women ’ s commissioner Sandra Perry . “ Penny , just about to turn 13 , and Hazel , aged 10 , have had lots of help from their mother , Melissa Mudgway , herself a former women ’ s motocross front runner , in learning the basics – it ’ s young women like this competing we want to see more of . They ’ re our The Lang family ( from left ) Penny , Melissa , Hazel and Nick . Photo supplied . future ,” said Perry . “ Both parents , the wider family and clubs have the culture so it is conducive to inclusion , nurtured these two amazingly talented young growth and most importantly enjoyment – my women and this is what the MNZ Women ’ s girls , their friends and the sport will be all the Commission is about . better for it .
“ It probably helps that motocross runs in the “ I would love to see clubs host flat track or family with the two girls having the support of natural terrain riding as well as support and their uncle Aaron Mudgway and cousin Daryl promote the novice and junior girls ’ classes to Hurley . get more girls along to give it a go and have “ The Lang sisters started racing in March fun with their friends ,” said Nick Lang . 2016 , with Penny now New Zealand No . 2 in the Perry said : “ We now have a social media 12-16 years ’ grade and Hazel national No . 2 in presence for the Women ’ s Commission which the 8-11 years ’ division . is raising the profile of women and girls at “ If any sport wants to thrive the culture has all levels and interests and it ’ s encouraging to be positive , progressive and inclusive – this to see a noticeable connection of women is a great sport – we need to make it a positive across all aspects of the sport , whether it is at experience for girls who want to be involved competition , recreation or volunteer level . and attractive to the majority of girls who may “ It is exciting seeing the success of girls such want to give it a go ,” says father and husband as the Lang sisters and we can ’ t wait to see Nick Lang . more – this is what the Women ’ s Commission is “ The Women ’ s Commission is about changing about ,” said Perry .
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