WELCOME
The VMR is intended to be an event for women to learn about long-distance motorcycle rallies. There are no requirements to participate, other than doing the event on a motorcycle (trikes, spyders, etc welcome). If you're an IBA member, you won't have a problem completing this. If you are not an IBA member, talk to us, doesn't mean you can't, we just want to make sure you'll be safe and happy!
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What is a long-distance rally?
A long-distance motorcycle rally is a scavenger hunt on a motorcycle. The upcoming event will be based in Fort Smith, AR, and we would love to have you start with us there for last minute questions, etc., but riders could start anywhere and finish with us in Fort Smith. If you choose to start remotely, we suggest you start within about 600-700 miles of Fort Smith, but technically anywhere is acceptable. Several days before the event starts on the morning of Friday, October 6th, riders will get a list of possible sites to visit. Each site will be worth a different amount of points. Riders will document their stop by taking the required photo with their rally flag (provided to you prior to the start by rally staff) in the photo and submit for scoring. There will be a few twists, such as combinations of certain bonuses might yield additional points. The rider with the most points successfully collected within the allotted time of the event wins! Check out our "Rules and Guidance" document - link at the top of this page. If you have questions, there's a contact us form at the bottom of the page. We also have a Facebook page for questions and discussions. Periodic (monthly or so) Zoom calls are also happening. Details are on the Facebook page or you can use the 'contact us' section below to make sure you are included.
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Our first event is coming in October 2023. See the Upcoming Events section below and click on 'Valkyrie Moto Rally' for event details and registration fees.
WHY VALKYRIE?
We wanted something that indicated women, strong capable women. In Norse mythology, the Valkyries were assistants to Odin. There's variations on specifics, but the common theme is that they were fierce warriors on their own, but also determined which soldiers were worthy to join Odin in Valhalla, the after life. Some versions say they also decided which would be killed in battle.
There are other things attributed to them as well, protective elements. Like they could protect soldiers or ships that they favored.
There's a modern pop culture element too. The Marvel character is said to be described, "Valkyrie possesses typical Asgardian physiological traits including super human strength, stamina, speed, durability, and reflexes. Her strength is greater than the typical Asgardian allowing her to capture Thor and Loki, and even knock down the Hulk."
Bottom line, we think Valkyrie denotes a strong, capable woman who is smart and kind but doesn't put up with bullshit. Just like our riders.
The VMR is proud to support Knitted Knockers for the amazing work they do for breast cancer survivors who have had a mastectomy.
Rally Ride Reports from Women That Ride
ABOUT US
Motorcycle legend Nancy Oswald, a highly experienced long-distance motorcycle rider, two-time finisher of the Iron Butt Rally, and overall general badass will be the rallymaster and driving force behind this event. Chris Hopper, also a legend, is an Iron Butt Rally finisher, Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge finisher, and the only person to have ever ridden 100,000 miles in less than 100 days on a motorcycle. He is the creative motivation behind this event and executive rally staff.