AWMN in Profile: Kathryn Scoble

Racing Through the Desert with Determination and Heart

Kathryn Scoble is a name synonymous with the grit and tenacity required to excel in the challenging world of desert racing. With over two decades of experience behind the bars, her passion for motorcycling and racing has been a driving force in her life. Known for her versatility, Kathryn has raced both in motocross and desert racing, carving a path for herself in an arena traditionally dominated by men.

Her journey began at the tender age of nine when she first entered the world of junior motocross. With her brothers already immersed in the sport from the age of two, Kathryn’s entry was almost inevitable. The thrill of competition and the freedom of being on two wheels instantly captivated her. “I loved it straight away,” Kathryn recalls, her voice brimming with the same excitement she felt all those years ago.

In the years since, Kathryn has gone on to become a staple in the desert racing circuit, where long-distance races through rugged terrain are the norm. With a deep connection to the sport and a relentless drive to improve, she has cemented her place as one of the leading figures in the category. “I love the freedom of being on a bike,” she explains. “But I also love the competitiveness of racing.”

Though her racing career has been extensive, the highlight for Kathryn remains her multiple podium finishes in the toughest desert races across Australia. A proud victor in the Kalgoorlie Desert Race and the Gascoyne Dash, Kathryn’s resilience and skill have propelled her to the top of the women’s category in the Finke Desert Race, where she has made multiple podium appearances. But it’s not just her physical strength and riding ability that sets her apart—it’s the mental fortitude required to navigate through the relentless conditions of desert racing.Desert racing is no easy feat. These races are long, grueling affairs, often spanning through dry salt lakes, deep sand, and rough, unforgiving terrain. Riders like Kathryn must endure hours of physically demanding conditions, keeping their focus sharp as they hit top speeds of up to 125 km/h. “The tracks are full of sharp edges, rocks, and trees,” she says. “You have to have excellent reflexes to avoid disasters and maintain control of your bike.”

Her tenacity isn’t just on the track—it also manifests in her role off it. Kathryn’s work extends beyond racing to managing the mechanics of her husband’s road racing sidecar team, where she serves as the head mechanic. From engine changes to tyre pressure adjustments, Kathryn’s mechanical skills have allowed her to thrive in a sport that demands as much mechanical expertise as it does athleticism. “I do everything—from fibreglassing and cleaning the outfit to managing all aspects of the bike setup,” she explains.

In addition to her work as a mechanic, Kathryn is deeply involved in the broader motorsport community, serving as a board director for Motorcycling WA and as the chairperson of the MWA Women’s Committee. This involvement allows her to advocate for greater opportunities for women in motorsport, something she’s been passionate about throughout her career. “It’s important to be involved in making the sport more accessible, especially for women,” she says, emphasizing her role in promoting inclusivity within the racing world.

Kathryn’s story isn’t one of grandiose battles against the odds, but one of consistent passion, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. She firmly believes in the importance of mentoring and guiding newcomers to the sport, especially young girls looking to break into a traditionally male-dominated arena. Her message to aspiring racers? “Get out there and have a go! The only regret you can have is not trying it sooner.”

Her dedication to the sport, her family, and her community continues to inspire those around her. With a legacy that speaks volumes of her character and achievements, Kathryn Scoble remains a shining example of what passion, perseverance, and family support can achieve in the world of motorsport.