31 years ago, in 1993, The Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally (MAWMR) was begun by Nancy Warren. It started as a simple thought; create a community where other women that rode motorcycles could congregate and share their stories. When Nancy started riding, women motorcyclists were a novelty. Now women motorcyclists are one of the fastest-growing segments of the market. But, there is still a lack of communities focusing on women motorcyclists where women can learn, laugh, ride and just have fun with each other. MAWMR is a community of devoted motorcyclists, enthusiasts, and friends that wish to continue the tradition of bringing together women to create an environment unlike any other.
MAWMR was started with a vision of creating this community, but also fundraise in support of women who face breast cancer. Over the years, the rally has evolved to assist any woman with any challenge surrounding any cancer. It’s about women motorcyclists helping women with the challenges of cancer.
MAWMR is the premier women’s motorcycling event in the Mid-Atlantic.
Mid-Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally Executive Board
Joan
President[email protected]
I started riding on the back of my husband’s first motorcycle, an ’85 Honda Shadow 500 in 2001. Our riding grew into a ‘02 Dyna Superglide and then an ’04 Ultra Classic before deciding to learn to ride myself in the summer of 2004 on a loaner KZ440 in a parking lot. On the way home that day I bought an ’85 Honda Nighthawk 550 that was for sale on the side of the road and I’ve been riding ever since. That motorcycle led to a ’91 Intruder 750, an ’07 Boulevard 1400, an ’09 Harley Dyna Custom and finally to my ’15 Ultra Limited Low. The size and comfort of the big HD have made long trips possible like visiting Wheels Through Time in North Carolina, The Harley Museum in Milwaukee and a 25th Anniversary ride with my husband from Philadelphia to Vero Beach, Florida and back. I first attended MAWMR in 2011 and look forward to it every year.
Heather
Vice President[email protected]
My road name is Map Girl because I LOVE maps. I have loved motorcycles since I was a kid, my first ride was on the back of my father’s friend’s bike. I ride a Yamaha V-Star 1300 Tourer. I've been riding for 24 years. My first MAWMR was in 1998 and I have attended every one since. I love long distance riding, my goal is to ride in every state. To date I’ve ridden in 41 states (including Hawaii)! When I’m not on my bike my other passion is scuba diving, I’m a master diver and love to travel. I have met some of my closest friends at MAWMR, the sisterhood is amazing!
Angie
Secretary[email protected]
Growing up in WV, I've always enjoyed the outdoors. My dad introduced me to motorcycle riding and I completed a safety course to obtain my endorsement. Years later, in 2015, I began riding a '08 Sportster, riding 10,000+ miles that first year. In 2016, I rode a '10 HD Deluxe, and currently, a '18 HD StreetGlide, with my tagline ``bluIZ``. I've enjoyed 18,003 miles this past riding season, aside from a few longer distance trips, have mostly been in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley (heart of the rally location) and surrounding 4 state area. I enjoy solo riding, group riding with women's or ministry based clubs that I'm a member, and riding with my husband and entire family!
I'm absolutely thrilled to be a MAWMR board member! I welcome the opportunity to utilize my passion of motorcycling to help facilitate the friendly comradery, outreach to women motorcycle enthusiasts, all while supporting meaningful causes. Looking forward to an outstanding rally!
Elaine
Treasurer[email protected]
I started riding on the back of my husband's bike when we were dating in the 70's. After we married he bought me a 250 Honda. Once I learned to ride, I was hooked. That was over 30 years ago. There weren't a lot of women riders back then so when I was invited to the first MAWMR it was so great to see so many other ladies on bikes. I've been to every MAWMR since then. After having so much fun for many years, I decided it was time to give back by being on the board. It has been a wonderful experience, hard work but rewarding. Each year is like a family reunion when I see ladies from all over the East Coast come together again to support a cause that is important to us all.
Cyndi
Past President[email protected]
My friends call me Chicka and my love of motorcycles started with a red Honda Mini Trail. I knew then that motorcycles would always be a part of my life, fueling my independence. Over the years I’ve ridden dirt bikes, mopeds and vintage café racers – until my Mom convinced me to buy a Harley-Davidson. Now I’m on my 3rd Harley and currently ride a StreetGlide. I went to my first MAWMR in 2004 and was amazed by the sisterhood and haven’t missed one since. I became a board member to ensure that others had the same amazing experience that I had and to honor my family members and friends that have fought cancer.
Anna
Board Member[email protected]
My name is Anna. I've never driven a motorcycle. I always wanted to. Life and finances always got in the way. I've ridden on the back of a few. My Aunts and my cousin, who all ride, talked me into attending MAWMR. My first one was in 2007. From the first day, I met phenomenal women and made life-long connections. The fundraising, and the the families we support, really grabbed a hold of me. I haven't missed one since. These people are my soul family!!!
Due to a couple of injuries, I was fearful of even taking the motorcycle course. Then the Polaris Slingshot came out! Boom!!! I was sold! The day I drove it home, it was 20 degrees out! I was proud as a peacock to drive it to MAWMR last year!!!
I want every one who comes to MAWMR to be able to make the same kind of connections. I want everyone to value and recognize the love and support we give to those fighting cancer and to each other, as well. When the opportunity to join the board came up, I immediately threw my hat in the ring. I'm excited to be a more influential part of this group that has touched me so deeply!
Janet
Board Member[email protected]
My first ride in 1973 was on the back of my boyfriend’s 350 Kawasaki,6 years later I found myself on the back of a Harley Davidson wearing a “Property of” patch in Southern California. Fast forward to my mid-thirties and a mom of two sons, I took the PA. Motorcycle Safety Course after attending the 50th anniversary of Sturgis in 1990. I rode for 3 months on a 250 Honda Rebel then moved up to my husband’s 1100 Sportster, my first new bike 11 years later was a 2002 Heritage Softail Classic and now my favorite ride of all time, “HOPE” my 2007 Road King Custom. With grandchildren and gray hair now, 32 years of riding has taken me many miles in many states, even into Canada. But in 2007 after a very heartbreaking year I attended my first MAWMR event. It felt like home! I met the most amazing women that weekend in Gettysburg and I have formed many bonds of sisterhood since, I have not missed a year yet. I thank God for this event and I look forward to meeting more amazing women to ride with each and every year. Blessings!
Sheila
Board Member[email protected]
My name is Sheila, I have been riding since 2006. My 1st motorcycle was a black 2006 650 V Star Classic. Her name was Blaque Magic. I had never feel so free and exhilarated until I rode her. she served me well for 8 years. I now ride a 2014 1300 V Star deluxe, The Grey Lady. I have met so many amazing and diverse people during this journey and connecting with the folks of MAWMR has brought more joy that I could’ve imagined. My road name if BrownSugar and I look forward to continuing to have, create and enjoy all MAWMR has to offer.
Adeline
Board Member[email protected]
One ride on a 1969 Triumph and, ``I'm gonna get me one of these one day!`` Realizing my dream at 19, a 1971 Honda CB350 was mine. A single Mom in 1991, I found myself sneaking rides at many wagging finger. Then cancer found me. Once recovered, a new 2003 Harley became mine, and I began riding farther distances. ``Old Bags On Bikes`` in 2006, I was one of six women who took a 10,000 mile trip in 31 days around the U.S. So, many amazing people, places and opportunities have come my way simply because of those two wheels. Even professionally I was now dividing my time as marketing manager for a Harley dealership, and as an MSF RiderCoach. Riding, rallies, events, motorcycling, art, who had it better than me! Then boom, Cancer found me again in 2013. It wasn't as easy that time around. Yet I recovered, and here I am again! I am quite blessed. Very new around here, 2019 was my first MAWMR. I was invited by gals who really knew where I needed to be. I love to ride, yet MAWMR, it was something more. I again returned in 2021. For me, it's a privilege to have this opportunity to serve, to team up, to give back.
Lisa
Board Member[email protected]
Growing up, I didn't even know anyone who rode a motorcycle! After riding on the back during a week-long trip with a boyfriend, I knew I needed my own motorcycle! In 2003, I bought a '95 Sportster (that I still have), learned to ride, took the Riders Edge course, and got my license... yes, in that order! Motorcycling quickly became an integral part of my life. I never dreamt I'd spend my summers in jeans, own heated gear, get a tattoo, win drag racing trophies, or own more motorcycles than my husband! My current bike is a 2015 Softail Deluxe CVO that I refer to as my Forever Bike--she's a perfect fit for me and a joy to ride. Over the past few years, I've worked to improve my riding skills by taking courses and logging lots of miles! I've seen beautiful scenery, met incredible women, and raised money for great causes. When the opportunity arose to join the MAWMR Board, I had to jump on it. I can't think of a better way to embrace my passion, support women riders, and make new friends.
Kathy
Board Member[email protected]
When I was eligible for early retirement at age 55, I wanted to do something just for me. I thought it would be great fun to learn to ride a Vespa. Since I never drove a 2 or 3 wheeled vehicle, I took the PA motorcycle instruction course and fell in love with riding. My first bike was a Honda Rebel and I quickly traded up to a Shadow. Had a few other 2 wheelers, and now ride a Honda Goldwing trike and a CanAm RT. Still haven’t gotten the Vespa yet – maybe someday.
My first MAWMR was in 2019 and except for 2020 (Covid year) haven’t missed one yet. I came without knowing anyone else and what a great experience! I felt welcomed and could be my silly self without judgement. My personal goal as a Board Member is to ensure everyone who attends feels as welcomed and comfortable as I did. I can’t think of a better organization that does so much to support women struggling with cancer and celebrating recovery!
Sherry
Board Member[email protected]
I started riding on the back. In 1997 my now husband and another couple dared me to try to ride his bike and hauling him on one of the most curvy roads in our area on his 1994 wide glide. I have been riding ever since. There weren't very many lady riders back then. So I started Women Motorcycle Riders of Central Pa to find other ladies to ride with and to help various people and organizations in need through different benefits and events.
I attended my first MAWMR in 2012. I honestly felt like I found my people. I made lifetime friendships. I truly believe in bringing women riders together and to support others in need. The rally has such diversity coming together for a common cause.
I look forward to bringing my experience to MAWMR.
Nancy
Board Member[email protected]
I always knew one day I would ride my own bike, starting the day my brother rolled up with a rumbling
Harley painted with fire red flames of pure rebellion. I was 10. Fast forward two decades and I had
finally snagged myself a ’82 Yamaha XZ550 Vision and traveled almost every local road. I had no idea
the amazing world motorcycling had in store, other than the fact I had always felt ALIVE and FREE when I
was on that bike. I was 30 and the world was ahead of me. Fast forward to today in 2023, I’m now 60
and I’ve traveled many of life’s twists and turns with all its constant changes. But one thing that has
stayed steadfast, if not stronger – is ‘that’ feeling of being ALIVE and FREE, as soon as I’m on a bike. I
will never forget my overwhelming awe as I pulled into the hotel parking lot Front Royal, VA to attend
my first MAWMR (2019). I was traveling with my beautiful soul sisters from the Garden State Girls NJ
and looked out over the crowd of women riders. I was ecstatic to be there, to be a part of the dynamic
energy, and proud of the journey I had chosen. MAWMR is a definite pit stop along the route that I plan
to revisit for many years to come.
Jenie
Board Member[email protected]
I'm a passionate motorcycle enthusiast with a love for the open road and the thrill of two-wheeled adventures. From the moment I first straddled a bike, I was hooked. In 2016, I met my husband. He was an avid motorcycle rider. He and his sister would go on benefit rides almost every weekend. I wanted to go but I had never even been on a motorcycle, so I never went until one day he was leaving for one of these benefits and I came running outside dressed like a complete buffoon and said, “Hurry up and take me for a ride, before I change my mind.” I had never been so terrified. That day changed my life! Within a year, I had learned to ride my own bike, got my permit, got my license and my very own bike! Whether it's cruising down scenic routes, tackling the challenges of the highway, or simply enjoying the beauty of classic and modern machines, I find joy in all aspects of motorcycle-related activities. For me, motorcycles aren't just a hobby; they're a way of life, offering a sense of freedom and a unique connection to the road that can't be replicated by any other means. The bond I have made with my wind sisters is unlike any other, we are not just wives, moms, sisters, or daughters, we are badass women who ride! Riding is not just an activity; it's a part of who we are, a part of who I am <3.
Tazzy
Board Member[email protected]
I was able to get on a bike for the first time when I was 6. I learned to ride that day. At age 8 my passion
was growing, and I got my first bike that year for my birthday. Due to being so young, I did lots of off road
riding. That included ¼ mile dirt drag racing, Hill climbs, trail riding, and dirt track jumping fun. I earned
the nickname that transferred to my road name of Tazzy. For many years I only was able to ride off road.
In 2013 I passed my MC safety course and got my endorsement. The scariest ride to date was the day I
bought my bike and rode it off the lot. Up until that moment, I was only the passenger while on the road.
I have a 2013 Honda Shadow 750, and a 2017 Honda Rebel 500. In time I will get a bigger bike but have
not found the perfect fit for me yet. I attended my first MAWMR in 2021 and was in awe at the
welcoming of all the ladies there as I was a newbie. After attending, I know I never want to miss one
moving forward. The charities that are supported are very meaningful to me. I hope that while on the
board I can make the experience for all ladies who ride as amazing as the years before. I look forward to
seeing returning smiles, and new faces each year and hope to help make the event grow and get the
word out for many more to experience the yearly “family reunion” that I have come to look forward to.
