IPOH: Although men typically dominate off-road motorcycle sports, this has not deterred Nor Shamira Nor Azahar (inset), 29, from honing her skills in a field she has passionately pursued for over a decade.
The Kuala Kangsar-born bank assistant manager said her interest blossomed after frequently accompanying her father, Nor Azahar Ismail, 65, in various off-road motorcycle competitions nationwide.
“At the age of 12, I mustered the courage to try this sport.
“My father was one of my teachers who taught me to ride a motorcycle properly, how to control the clutch and much more.
“I spent a year learning the skills and praises to Allah, what began as a hobby evolved into my active participation in competitions,” she said in an interview with Bernama while participating in the Rimba Raid Lenggong 2024 (also known as the Enduro race) late last month.
Nor Shamira emerged as the fastest female racer in the 250-500cc category in the tournament.
“I also achieved seventh place overall in that category. For me, achieving this is no small feat and reinforces my determination to continue,” she added.
The third of five siblings, Nor Shamira said she gained extensive experience by participating in two types of off-road motorcycle races: Motocross (MX) and Enduro. She said she focuses more on Enduro racing, which she began competing in 2022.
“The MX category features a total track length of only 2km, with obstacles like tabletops, single jumps and double jumps. Enduro races cover hundreds of kilometres and typically take two to three days to complete.
“Enduro is more exhilarating for me because it demands the use of all our strength to navigate a variety of challenges and rugged obstacles,” she added.
Nor Shamira, who is 155cm tall, said in every race, safety is a crucial element that must be prioritised.
“I broke two fingers on my right hand in 2009 and sustained shoulder injuries twice, in 2010 and 2012. Such injuries are common in this sport.
“My only advice is not to take safety lightly and to ensure that the motorcycle is in excellent condition,” she said.
When asked about society’s view on women’s participation in the sport, Nor Shamira said while many provide support, there are also dissenters, particularly among men.
“We must accept that whatever we do will always have both supporters and detractors. My advice to women who want to get involved in this sport is: don’t be afraid to try something new,” she said.
