Women in Sport is a new series by the Mudgee Guardian where we highlight female figures in sport across the region each week.
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Not everyone can say they first jumped on a motorbike at the age of three, but Mudgee’s very own MX queen, Meghan Rutledge sure can.
The 23-year-old has had a passion for motocross racing for as long as she can remember, and turned to competitive racing at seven-years-old.
“I was basically born into the sport. My two older sister were racing when I was born so every weekend was spent at or around motorbikes,” she said.
In order to stay in peak form and continue to be one of the most renowned female riders in the world, Meg pushes through daily rigorous training routines.
“I push myself extremely hard but also know if it’s not fun it’s not worth doing. I have had injuries that have made me want to quit but I just couldn’t,” she said.
“While not gaining anywhere near enough recognition in comparison to what male riders do at her level, Rutledge says her dream of becoming World Champion is just that, a dream.
“My dream is to become World Champion but unfortunately there isn’t enough support for women to get there,” she said.
“I’ll be honest. MX is just a hobby for any women. I do it because I love every bit of it.
“My personal training and MX coaching is going to be my future but I’ll always race at some level for the love of it.”
Nevertheless, Meghan has an extensive list of achievements including being named as the 2018 Queen of MX, 2018 Female Winner Hattah Desert Race, 2018 Australian Motocross Champion, 2018 Australian Female SuperMoto Champion, three time Australian Supercross Champion, two time Australian Motocross Champion, five time NSW Champion, and two time Runner Up World Champion.
“It’s the speed, the adrenaline rush and the competitiveness of the sport that keeps me wanting more,” she said.
“The family and friends you make with fellow competitors and their families as well as the close connection that forms with sponsors makes you want to go racing every weekend.”
Rutledge is also an advocate for female rider’s and encourages girls of any age to have a go.
“Give it a go, you never know unless you try.
“Don’t be scared of racing up against the boys. You might actually surprise yourself.”
Jay-Anna Sleeman
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
