As a family we love racing, motorcycles, go-carts (anything with wheels really) and of course wine. I had a chance to catch up with Alyssa Bridges, a friend and supporter of all things MotoDoffo and currently a part of Royal Enfield’s Build Train Race Program. Royal Enfield selected 7 women to participate in MotoAmerica racing, including the building of a race bike from a stock Royal Enfield 650 Twin. The women then race on the MotoAmerica circuit at three of the nation’s fastest tracks. In September the women will be at the world famous Barber Motorsports track in Birmingham, Alabama. I caught up with Alyssa to find out more about the program.
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE PROCESS NOW THAT YOU HAVE THE FIRST RACE UNDER YOUR BELT?
I am excited to learn another track coming up in Pittsburgh. I started studying the track as soon as I got home from the last race. The actual bike build was more tranquil compared to the racing circuit because I was alone at home in my garage.
HOW DID YOU FEEL AT THE FIRST RACE?
The first race was interesting because it was the first time all the women and the bikes started together. At the start of the race I didn’t feel I got the best start, but it was exhilarating once you start to trust your bike and really hit your braking marks.
ARE YOU COMPETITIVE OR DO YOU FEEL A TEAM ENERGY?
I am very competitive and I get competitive very quickly, but there is a team aspect to it because we have all been in it together and have been training together. Plus we all spend time together in the paddock. It’s very serious but also fun.
WHAT WAS YOUR BEST MOMENT AND YOUR WORST MOMENT DURING YOUR FIRST RACE?
Best moment was when I really started to mesh with my bike and had some really solid laps.
The worst moment was not making the podium after my lap times improved and I had a bad start. Plus there were moments when I wanted to pass but then I thought it wasn’t worth it.
WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO AS YOU GET READY FOR THE NEXT RACE IN PITTSBURGH?
Well, there are 2 races left, and I am most excited about learning the new track. It looks fast and has more twists like a canyon.
HOW IS THE WINNER OF BULD TRAIN RACE DETERMINED?
The racing winner is determined by podium standing and points as they are part of MotoAmerica. The build winner was determined by popular opinion, which was all the social media posting that had to be done during the build. Your attitude and character throughout the whole experience determine if you get invited back as the goal is to grow this team.
WHERE CAN FOLKS CATCH THE RACES?
Definitely on Moto America’s Facebook Live. You can also visit Royal Enfield’s Build Train Race Site and navigate to Road Racing
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WANT TO ADD BEFORE YOU GO?
I want to thank the Doffos for supporting me and everyone else who stands behind the program. It has been a great learning experience and definitely once in a lifetime. Thank you Doffo family for your support!