Motorcycle sport in the UK now has a dedicated ‘Ambassador for ACU Women’ after the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) appointed Pippa Laverty to the newly-created volunteer position.
As it looks to the future as a modern, diverse and inclusive sporting organisation, the national governing body of motorcycle sport in the UK (excluding Northern Ireland) is committed to supporting and giving a voice to female competitors, officials and organisers.
Creating a new ‘Ambassador for ACU Women’ position is central to this ambition and having two decades’ worth of experience in motorcycle sport, as well as being a member of the FIM’s Women’s Commission since 2021, made Pippa the outstanding candidate for the voluntary role.
As the first Ambassador for ACU Women, she 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.
Commenting about her appointment, 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 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.”
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 already have in our organisation, as well as helping us to 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
Words and Images by the ACU
