Leslie Porterfield is the Guinness Book of World Records’ Fastest Woman in The World on a Conventional Motorcycle, set at the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Leslie is coming to India for the India Bike Week 2017 to be held in Goa.
Namita Nayyar, President WomenFitness.Org catches up with Leslie Porterfield.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
You are the Guinness Book of World Records’ Holder for being the Fastest Woman in The World on a Conventional Motorcycle. Tell us about your journey creating this record?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
It was quite a journey! I had road raced on circuits before going to the Bonneville Salt Flats to set records. It took over a year to build the bike. With help from a great team, I was able to make my first effort to set a record in 2007. Unfortunately I ended up having a wreck. I came off the bike at over 100mph. I had 7 broken ribs and a punctured lung. I also had a severe concussion and was helicoptered into the hospital. I was fortunate to be in great shape and recover quickly. I still have some aches from the broken ribs but I consider myself fortunate.
The following year, I had rebuilt the motorcycle, recovered from my injuries, and achieved my first record aboard the same motorcycle I had my accident on. I also had the added stress of television cameras everywhere. It was a huge learning experience and a time for great focus. When I came back to the event and set my first record, it made me a better rider. I had to tune out everything else and not think of the possibility of wrecking. I was able to achieve my goals of setting records through intense focus. Racing at Bonneville has been a great personal journey!
This interview is exclusive and taken by Namita Nayyar, President womenfitness.org and should not be reproduced, copied or hosted in part or full anywhere without an express permission.
All Written Content Copyright © 2017 Women Fitness Org
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
How did you get started into motorcycle speed racing?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
It was a dream of mine to go to the legendary Bonneville Salt Flats and set a record over 200mph. I had several speeding tickets on my motorcycle! When I was first encouraged to go to the track, it filled a need I had for some time. The competition and challenge has been inspiring to me.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
What exercises comprise your fitness regime or workout routine you shall like to share?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
I have always loved running. That has always been a great part of my routine. I have found that with motorcycle racing, bicycle riding helps with my routine, as well as focusing on upper body strength with weights. I have found my favorite routine to be yoga. It helps me stay flexible after injuries and is a great balance to my workouts.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
Do you take some special diet or have a strict menu that you follow to remain healthy and physically fit?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
I maintain a mostly vegetarian diet. I have found that for me I do beat without strict diet, but I avoid processed foods and sweets.
This interview is exclusive and taken by Namita Nayyar, President womenfitness.org and should not be reproduced, copied or hosted in part or full anywhere without an express permission.
All Written Content Copyright © 2017 Women Fitness Org
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
You have two wonderful children, 4-year-old twins. How has motherhood changed your outlook towards the sport?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
Children definitely change everything. Now I do not take the risks I once did. My life revolves around them. I make an effort to be a great example for them. I want them to be comfortable with themselves, and follow their passions.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
Advice and motivational words to the inspiring and budding female racers who all are your fans, they shall like to know from you, what they should do for their climb to ladder of success in this field?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
I was a success by accident. The first key is following your dream. Never accept no for an answer. Know that you still struggle and have to work hard. If it is something you love, that struggle is easy. If you have the passion for what you do, it is contagious.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
United Motors is bringing you to the India Bike Week, which is India’s only motorcycling festival. How do you feel about that?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
This is a huge honor for me. I have been fortunate to be able to travel all over the world. This will be my first trip to India and I am very excited! I have wanted to see India for some time. Being able to attend India Bike Week with UM is such a wonderful opportunity!
This interview is exclusive and taken by Namita Nayyar, President womenfitness.org and should not be reproduced, copied or hosted in part or full anywhere without an express permission.
All Written Content Copyright © 2017 Women Fitness Org
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
Who has been your greatest influence and motivator in your success?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
I had read for years about The Bonneville Salt Flats. The movie “World’s Fastest Indian” is a great portrayal of what racing is like there. It all inspired me to go set a record. I have been involved with other types of racing, but setting world records at Bonneville is the most unique racing I’ve ever experienced. I am still in awe of the machines and people seen there. I love the fact that you can have such freedom to engineer a motorcycle to go fast. It’s unusual to have a race setting where you can try so many ideas. The fellow racers, crews, and race workers are amazing. It’s like a family! I’ve met some amazing people from all over the world, and all walks of life. I love that I see people with a rusty vintage bike in the back of their truck that comes to race along with million dollar plus race vehicles with the latest technology and equipment. It’s so diverse, yet everyone helps fellow racers out. It’s such a great experience.
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
What are your future plans, any championships or new records to make?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
I have enjoyed such success with my current records, and I hope to find a new challenge. I am working on finding the next adventure in racing!
Ms. Namita Nayyar:
What do you wish to say about the website Womenfitness.org and message for our readers?
Ms. Leslie Porterfield:
I enjoy the website. There is so much great information and stories available on the site. I am a fan! My message to visitors is this; whether it’s motorcycling or something else, follow your passions. It makes for a happier life. I feel so fortunate to have the success I’ve had. Pursuing things you love is so important in life.
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Women Fitness Org Team extends our heartfelt gratitude to Leslie Porterfield for taking out time from her busy schedule and United Motors for facilitating this interview with us.
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All Written Content Copyright © 2017 Women Fitness Org