PIPPA Laverty, a well known figure in Northern Ireland motorcycle racing, has become the first Ambassador for Women in UK motorcycle sport.
Durham native Pippa’s husband is former World Superbike rider Eugene Laverty from Toomebridge. Now based in Portugal, the couple are regular visitors to Irish motorcycling events, most recently the North West 200 in May.
Commenting about her appointment by governing body, the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU), Pippa said: “I’m honoured to be appointed the Ambassador for ACU Women because the organisation has been established for 120 years and it’s really trying to move things forward for women and girls. To be the first person into the role is very exciting.
“It’s very important to have a focus on diversity and the important role women play in the sport. Looking in from the outside, people may think it’s a very masculine environment. But that’s not the case. There’s a lot of women competing and working in the industry and this appointment presents a great opportunity to showcase all those good things.
“I’m already doing a lot for the FIM (world governing body) Women’s Commission to try and support women’s involvement in all sorts of initiatives and roles. Working closely with the different federations has opened my eyes to the important role that women and girls play in our sport. It’s going to be great to promote that and push it forward.”
As the first Ambassador for ACU Women, Pippa will play an important role in raising the public profile of women within the ACU across all disciplines, presenting the ACU as an inclusive and welcoming environment for women and girls, and helping to grow the participation of women and girls across all aspects of ACU activity.
Matthew Edwards-Wear, ACU Secretary General, said: “The Ambassador for ACU Women is a new role that will promote the invaluable contribution and participation of women and girls at all levels within ACU motorcycle sport.
“Throughout its 120-year history, women have played a vital part in the success of the ACU both at home and internationally. As the ACU evolves, the Board is delighted to introduce this important new role as an integral part of its effort to create a modern, diverse and inclusive sporting organisation.”
Tim Lightfoot, ACU President, said: “I’m thrilled Pippa has joined the ACU in this exciting new role. She’s a superb asset who I know will really help us to move the needle in terms of promoting and giving a voice to all the amazing females we have in our organisation, as well as helping us attract new women and girls to motorcycle sport through the ACU.”
Anyone wanting to get in touch with Pippa directly can e-mail: pippa.laverty@acu.org.uk
Pippa and NI husband Eugene, a former World Superbike rider
