Polaris Partners with International Female Ride Day to Celebrate and Empower Women
On August 22, 2020, participants from over 120 countries on six continents will participate in International Female Ride Day (IFRD), a globally synchronized ride day that celebrates women motorcycle riders and their passion for power sports.
Global power sports leader Polaris—which pioneers product breakthroughs, and enriching experiences and services that invite people to discover the joy of being outdoors—has partnered with IFRD to celebrate the annual movement, which was originally created in 2007 by Vicki Gray, a lifetime motorcycling advocate, road, and race instructor. IFRD and the “Just Ride!” call-to-action were created to focus on motorcycle riders. As female ridership grows within the power sports industry, IFRD welcomes female riders of all types of power sports, including off-road vehicles and snowmobiles.
“We’re excited to partner with IFRD in their mission to celebrate women riding in unity, as well as their efforts to cultivate a strong community of female power sport enthusiasts across all borders and cultures,” says Pam Kermisch, Polaris Chief Customer Engagement and Growth Officer. “Our portfolio of over 30 brands empowers women to connect with the outdoors, whether it’s on asphalt, dirt, sand, or snow. IFRD provides us the opportunity to come together to celebrate the love of riding and ensure female riders are well represented across the industry.”
As a result of due to COVID-19, the 14th annual IFRD event was rescheduled from its usual date (the first Saturday in May). No matter how or where you ride, Polaris and IFRD encourage safe riding practices. This includes wearing appropriate safety gear, performing pre-ride vehicle checks, and following local and CDC guidelines for social distancing to protect against the spread of COVID-19. Riders participating in IFRD can proudly wear IFRD branded apparel and show off the official IFRD logo on their social handles or on their vehicles. Visit the IFRD website to learn more, including ways to participate, helpful tips for preparing your ride and photo inspirations from previous years.
“Just Ride!” is the only requirement to participate in IFRD. Motorcycle riders and powers ports enthusiasts around the world can celebrate by going for a solo ride, or riding with friends and family. Riders can also celebrate digitally by sharing photos on social media using the hashtags #IFRD and #InternationalFemaleRideDay. For those without a vehicle or interested in checking out a new ride, Polaris Adventures offers Polaris RZR, Slingshot, and snowmobile rentals, providing custom experiences in select locations and terrains across the U.S.
“I started IFRD to advance the awareness of women motorcycle riders and inspire women everywhere,” says Gray. “Working with Polaris encourages even more women to join the celebration of riding and become part of the movement. However you prefer to ride, it is truly an experience like no other—exhilarating, liberating, and fulfilling. The female riding community is one of expanding camaraderie on open roads and trails. Everyone is welcome to be a part of this day as the world sits up and takes notice of our global community. Get on your ride of choice and share your enthusiasm with other women the world over.”
For more information, visit motoress.com and polaris.com. Follow on Instagram: @motoress @polarisinc
[Images courtesy of International Female Ride Day]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk