Melissa Paris
Motorcycle racing // Concord, California, United States
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Melissa Paris: renowned motorcycle racer known for achievements on track and fostering new talent. From BMX to professional racing, she’s a trailblazer and mentor.
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When something is difficult, I tell myself that I can do anything in the world for 5 seconds. If it takes longer, I just tell myself the same thing again.
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Melissa Paris is a trailblazing motorcycle racer who made history as the first woman to qualify for a World Supersport Race, dedicating her career to breaking barriers in motorsports and mentoring the next generation of female racers.
EARLY YEARS
Growing up in Northern California, Melissa spent her childhood chasing her older brothers on BMX bikes, developing a competitive spirit that would later fuel her racing career. Her passion for motorcycles ignited while attending San Diego State University after a chance encounter with a fellow student who owned a sport bike, opening a world of possibilities that would transform her life.
EARLY SUCCESS
While balancing full-time studies and working to fund her racing dreams, Paris participated in club races almost every weekend, honing her skills on 125cc and 250cc bikes. Her dedication paid off in 2008 when she captured the Lightweight National Championship, setting the stage for her professional debut the following year at the prestigious Daytona International Speedway.
NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2008: Became Lightweight National Champion[1].
- 2009: Made history as the first woman to qualify for a World Supersport Race[1].
- 2009: Competed in AMA Daytona Sportbike series, finishing 15th overall[1].
- 2011: Became the first female rider invited to test a MotoGP prototype bike in Valencia[1].
- 2011: Competed in British Supersport championship[1].
- 2017: Founded MP13 Racing, her own racing team[3].
- Post-2017: Participated in FIM, MotoAmerica, and the Bol d’Or 24-Hour World Endurance race[3].
REPUTATION
Paris has earned respect throughout the motorsports community not only for her groundbreaking achievements as a female racer but also for her commitment to mentoring young riders. Through her team MP13 Racing, she creates a supportive environment for developing talent, with a particular focus on empowering women in the sport. Her involvement with Royal Enfield’s Build. Train. Race. program further demonstrates her dedication to helping women build and race their own motorcycles, making her as renowned for her mentorship as for her racing prowess.
FUTURE GOALS/PLANS
Melissa’s long-term vision centers on making motorcycle racing more accessible and inclusive for everyone. Rather than pursuing personal racing achievements, she aims to continue expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in motorsports, particularly focusing on young women. As she eloquently puts it, “I want to make sure that everyone knows that there’s space at the table for them, and if I can pull out the chair, I’m happy to do that.”[4]
References:
How Did Melissa Paris Start Racing Motocross Bikes As A Pro?
Melissa Paris – All Kids Bike
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