Doreen Walmsley

Doreen Walmsley is the powerhouse owner and dealer principal of Ducati Richmond in British Columbia, Canada, who has become one of the most influential sponsors and advocates for women in motorsports while building one of the region’s most respected motorcycle dealerships.

EARLY YEARS

Information about Doreen Walmsley’s early years and birthdate is not available in the research provided.

OTHER INTERESTS

Walmsley is known for her philosophy that extends beyond business: she only participates in sports that require a helmet, a declaration that speaks volumes about her appetite for adrenaline and calculated risk. She rides a Ducati herself, naturally, and her passion for motorcycles isn’t just a business decision—it’s a lifestyle.

EARLY SUCCESS

Walmsley’s business acumen became evident early in her career. She established Pacific Motosports (also operating as Pacific Yamaha BMW and Pacific Rim Motorcycles) in 1983, building a foundation in the motorcycle industry that would span decades. Her ability to recognize talent and invest in people caught the attention of business professionals—she earned such high regard that one executive hired her across three different companies, citing her “excellence” and business capabilities. This track record of success positioned her perfectly to eventually take the helm at Ducati Richmond, where she would transform not just a dealership, but the landscape for women riders in the Pacific Northwest.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

• 1983: Founded Pacific Motosports in Richmond, British Columbia[1].
• Became Owner and Dealer Principal of Ducati Richmond, establishing it as a premier dealership in British Columbia[2].
• Became a founding sponsor of MotoVixens, an organization supporting women in motorcycling, going so far as to close her shop to support their events[3].
• Sponsored high-profile MotoAmerica racers including Kyle Wyman, Josh Herrin, and Mallory Dobbs[4].
• Created loyalty discount programs and track day opportunities specifically for Ducati Richmond customers, fostering a community of riders[5].

INSPIRATIONS

Information about Doreen Walmsley’s specific inspirations is not available in the research provided.

REPUTATION

Walmsley has earned a reputation as one of the most important advocates for women in motorsports, particularly on the West Coast. When riders discuss getting into track days or racing, her name inevitably comes up—she’s the person female racers call when they need support, both financial and moral. Mallory Dobbs specifically singled her out for putting together her Super Hooligan racing program in 2023. MotoVixens founder Carol Carpenter described being “fortunate enough to speak with Doreen Walmsley” when starting track days, noting that she has been “an avid supporter and sponsor from the beginning.” What sets her apart isn’t just writing checks—it’s her commitment to action over talk. In a world where many discuss “women helping women” without follow-through, Walmsley actually does it. She books multiple spots for her crew at track events, sponsors emerging female talent, and has been described as “paramount” to the success of women’s riding organizations. Her Ducati Hypermotard is reportedly one of her favorite motorcycles, and she offers customer loyalty discounts for track days, demonstrating that her business model prioritizes building community over quick profits. This is a woman who understands that investing in people—especially women breaking into a male-dominated sport—creates value that extends far beyond the bottom line.

FUTURE GOALS/PLANS

As of 2025, Walmsley continues organizing track days and expanding opportunities for Ducati Richmond customers. Her ongoing partnership with organizations like MotoVixens suggests her commitment to supporting women in motorsports remains a priority for the future.

REFERENCES

Pacific Motosports | BBB Business Profile
Staff | Ducati Richmond British Columbia
Ducati Richmond – MotoVixens
On A Fast Track: Mallory Dobbs – MotoAmerica
Event Calendar | Ducati Richmond British Columbia