Whether on snow, dirt, asphalt or sand, women are participating in powersports more than ever before and helping to expand and diversify the industry. To champion and sustain this growth, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) created the Empowersports Women’s Riding Council made of 12 powerful women from all backgrounds to uplift the passions that fuel women and put forth deliberate efforts for increased representation, inclusion and participation of women in powersports. “For over 65 years, Polaris has created new ways to connect riders with the outdoors on all terrains, and we are committed to inviting more people to join powersports for work and for play,” said Polaris Chief Customer Engagement and Growth Officer Pam Kermisch. “We are so honored to have these trailblazing women join in this initiative, not only to inspire and empower more adventure-inclined women to enter the space, but also to lead industry improvements for the women already immersed in powersports culture.” The Empowersports Women’s Riding Council is composed of distinguished women who are riders, adventurers, leaders and entrepreneurs who bring unique perspectives and insights to the powersports space. They are champions for advocacy, empowering women, building community, sparking adventure and fostering safety. They include:
Michelle Barraza RZR Racer
Carrie Barton Klim & Timbersled Brand Ambassador, Dirt Bike Racer & Tour of Idaho Finisher
Julie-Ann Chapman She Shreds Mountain Adventures Founder & Professional Snowmobiler, Team Polaris Athlete
Amy David Professional Mountain Athlete, Skier, Guide, Polaris Snowmobile Ambassador & Content Creator
Gevin Fax Actor, Musician, Educator & Speakers Bureau Ambassador
Vicki Gray International Female Ride Day® & Motoress.com Founder, Road & Race Instructor
Lisa Lockhart Rodeo Champion, Rancher & Polaris Ranger Ambassador
Kristen Matlock Professional RZR racer & SCORE Baja 1000 Champ
Jody Perewitz Racer & Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Famer Porsche
Taylor Black Girls Ride Magazine Founder And Cross-Country Rider
Jolene Van Vugt Stuntwoman, Nitro Circus Action Sports Athlete, Canadian Woman’s National Motocross Champion & RZR Ambassador
Kelly Yazdi Wild Gypsy Tour Creator, Polaris Adventures Ambassador, Actor & Host
I am honored and thrilled to join my fellow council members in this movement to champion self-empowerment, community, adventure and safety,” Matlock says. “For me, riding is a form of expression and freedom that every woman should get the chance to experience. Women have always been a force within the world of powersports, but we haven’t always been a part of the narrative. This council allows us to tell our stories and provide our perspectives our way.”
