*Waving Hello!!!*

My name is Melissa, and I’m located in “South Central” Washington lol…Middle of the state, 10 miles off the Columbia.

I started riding at the tail end of the 2008 season. First time, first bike. I’ve been in love with them and the sport since I was around 15…just never had the means to pursue it prior…and a few other lame excuses lol. I got into it for the love of bikes, to challenge myself with something new, and for the amazing social aspect that comes with being in the community. My first two seasons though, I was lacking in that last part… I rarely had anyone to ride with, and was missing the community feel…and debated selling – figuring that maybe I had too high of expectations and all. At the end of the 2009 season though, we had a new guy start at work that rode a sport bike as well…and came from a group that was open to all levels, riders and somewhat of a family. I rode with him a few times, and we got a small local group started. Shortly after he introduced me to a large Northwest forum of riders. Since then, I have met so many wonderful and supportive people. Some of my best friends, and awesome memories have stemmed this past summer. Between girls only rides, group rides, track days, and local get togethers…I’ve finally found what I’ve been missing for so long…comraderey.

I’ve rode with Morgan (the lead from GirlClutch Oregon) a few times, and have really enjoyed the rides she puts together and the support she lends to the other lady riders on our forum (and beyond). I’ve inquired a couple times about GirlClutch with her, and really liked what I heard. No club politics, fees, meetings or bs that’s typical. Just get together, ride, and enjoy eachothers company…perfect!!! I checked out the site to see what’s going on out there, and maybe how to become a member…and found that there wasn’t a representative for Washington yet…so…here I am!!

I love organizing rides, and my closest “family” has nicknamed me “Iron Muffin Butt” because of the distances I typically will travel just to get to a ride. Most times I’ll wind up putting in a 9-14 hour day. We have beautiful roads down here in the Columbia River Gorge, and loads of great twisties. Will be great to share them, as well as put rides together for the different regions of Washington and get all of us out to explore our great state. Plus…I’m the only girl in my local group…so I could use some chicka company here and there!!! lol

Always open to all riders, levels and bike styles…we all take the same risks and understand the joy that comes from being out on two wheels.
~Melissa

You can get more information on GC Washington by emailing Washington@GirlClutch.com and keep up with what’s happening with GirlClutch Washington by friending them on Facebook here