Women's Riding School at DRA

Put 30 females (15 racers and the other 15 seriously interested in racing), 15 Ducati 996 SPSs, Freddie Spencer, Vicky Jackson- Bell, and Rueben Xaus together and what do you get? Probably the one of the coolest events ever organized!
We left Orlando on Friday morning and arrived in Las Vegas Friday afternoon for the Women's Riding School and Ducati Revs America. That afternoon we went to the track to find out where everything was. The first thing I noticed was the number of riders on the track having a great time. If you brought your bike with you, you could take it out on the track and ride around. But for us- the bikes were there waiting for us all lined up in a row (right).
Saturday morning we got up early and headed for the track. Not knowing exactly what to expect, I immediately felt right at home with the 29 other females. The group was impressive. Some girls have been riding for years, while some have not yet raced. I fell somewhere in the middle of the pack with less than a year experience, but some impressive results to date. We gathered for a breakfast and get to know each other hour. Immediately following breakfast we went to Freddie Spencer's school to listen to some incredible tips on utilizing the "points" system of riding a motorcycle. I won't go into any detail because that would take far too long, but if you ever have the chance to go to Fireside's school, you would be happy you spent every dollar!
The 30 participants were divided into two groups to go on the track. I was in the second group with Rueben Xaus. I can't ever tell you how amazing he is. He has such great talent, but something you don't find all that often is a personality like his. He is very personable and took the time to spend with every girl he could on the track. I followed him for a few laps (until someone cut in front of me, which I thought was very stupid...glad I don't know who it was) and observed his riding style and lines.

Riding behind a world superbike rider sure can make you feel SLOW but hearing Rueben talk about how to take the lines around the track was extremely helpful. Here's hoping that I can use it in my races next season! Too bad I couldn't take one of the 996's with me! They are incredible bikes, very smooth and MUCH more torque than my 250. That took some getting used to after riding a two stroke for so long. I adapted. Quickly : )

I had a great time at DRA and would recommend any Ducati enthusiast attend. Maybe next year will be even bigger and better!

Here are some links on reports of the Women's Riding School, assuming the host keeps them there:

• Article that appeared on MotorcycleWorld.com, written by Judy Mirro
• Draganee Racing Press Release
• More photos of the group