Influential Women in MTB: Shaping the Future of Mountain Biking

Mountain biking (MTB) has long been dominated by men, but women are increasingly making their mark. From the adrenaline-pumping trails to the heart of the industry, influential women are not just participating but leading the way, inspiring a new generation of female riders. Here, we’ll highlight some of the trailblazers in MTB, and talk about why having women at Red Bull Rampage is more important than ever—especially with the historic inclusion of a British female participant.

5 inspirational women in mountain biking

1. Rachel Atherton: A dominant force in downhill racing with multiple World Championships, significantly impacting women's MTB visibility.

2. Tracey Hannah: A successful downhill racer known for her competitive spirit and dedication to promoting women's participation in the sport.

3. Tahnée Seagrave: An emerging star in downhill racing, recognized for her talent and dedication, inspiring many younger riders.

4. Jill Kintner: A versatile rider excelling in both downhill and pump track racing, known for her advocacy and promotion of women's cycling.

5. Kate Courtney: A prominent cross-country racer, quickly rising to stardom and serving as a role model for aspiring female athletes.

6. Veronique Sandler: A respected rider and filmmaker known for her skills in enduro and dedication to showcasing women's mountain biking through her work.

7. Casey Brown: An influential rider in the enduro scene, known for her impressive skills and her efforts to inspire women in mountain biking.

8. Evie Richards: A talented cross-country rider who has made significant strides in the sport, including a World Championship title, and is a strong advocate for women in cycling.

These women have not only excelled in their respective disciplines but have also contributed significantly to the growth and visibility of women's mountain biking.

 Women in Red Bull Rampage, 2024

For the first time in history, the 2024 Red Bull Rampage will feature a women's competition! This groundbreaking event includes eight top female freeriders, marking a massive milestone in the sport. These riders have earned their spots based on their skills, recent results, and the impact they've had on the sport.

The invited riders include:

• Camila Nogueira (Argentina)
• Casey Brown (Canada)
• Hannah Bergemann (USA)
• Jess Blewitt (New Zealand)
• Robin Goomes (New Zealand)
• Vaea Verbeeck (Canada)
• Vero Sandler (UK)
• Vinny Armstrong (New Zealand)

Alternates include top athletes like Harriet Burbidge-Smith (Australia) and Chelsea Kimball (USA), among others. These incredible women are set to make history in the notoriously tough desert terrain of Utah, highlighting how much the sport has evolved to include female riders at the top levels of competition.

The inclusion of women at Rampage is a major step in elevating female visibility in extreme mountain biking, providing inspiration for future generations of riders while breaking down barriers in this male-dominated sport. 

Why Women Belong at Red Bull Rampage

Red Bull Rampage is one of the most prestigious and extreme freeride mountain biking competitions in the world, yet, it's historically been male-dominated. The event’s scale, featuring huge drops, technical lines, and massive tricks, makes it a true test of skill and courage. While Rampage has seen incredible performances over the years, the absence of women in this event has been a glaring issue in the industry.

The importance of women being represented at Rampage can’t be overstated:

• Visibility and Inspiration: When women see other women shredding at major events like Rampage, it sends a message that they belong in this space. It fuels a growing community of female riders who see the possibility of pushing their limits.
• Equal Opportunity: The skills of female freeriders like Casey Brown and Vaea Verbeeck are undeniable. Including women in Rampage not only levels the playing field but also showcases the vast talent pool within women’s freeride MTB.
• Breaking Stereotypes: MTB is tough, but so are women. Having women participate in events like Rampage shatters the outdated stereotype that extreme sports are only for men. It proves that women can perform at the same level and deserve the same recognition.

The Future of Women in MTB

Thanks to these trailblazing women, the future of women’s mountain biking is brighter than ever. From downhill races to freeride events, they are proving that women have a place in every facet of MTB. As the sport continues to evolve, it’s crucial that platforms like Rampage open their doors to more female riders, not just for equality’s sake but to elevate the sport to new heights.

Women like Rachel Atherton, Tahnee Seagrave, and Casey Brown are more than just athletes—they’re changing the face of MTB, one trail at a time. The inclusion of women in major competitions will only continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in mountain biking.