BEYOND THE ORDINARY

LADY BIKER BREAKING STEREOTYPES

Born and raised in an orthodox family in Calicut, Fazeela Uppilathodi never in her wildest dreams thought that she would become a rally rider. It was her chance meeting with Kochi's popular biker crew CoG racing who motivated her to sharpen her biking skills. Now, this bike racer-cum-fitness trainer is planning to start a bike racing academy for women soon.

This 29 -year -old fitness trainer is on a mission to encourage more girls to take up bike racing. "There are many women who ride bikes but only few venture into racing tracks. I am not concerned about being a woman bike rider but it's all about being true to the sport," said Fazeela who has also been subjected to stereotypical roles thrust upon women.

She is one of the first women from Kerala for competing at the Raid De Himalaya, the flagship rally of the country's premier motorsport club, a Shimla-based Himalayan Motorsport which was held last year. Fazeela not only participated in the mega event, but also won the race. Besides working as a fitness trainer she is also skilled in Yoga and meditation techniques. She has a five-year-old daughter.

Fazeela stands as an inspiring model for someone who broke the gender stereotypes with her grit, hard work and never-say-die attitude. She is a true inspiration for many women in India and worldwide, to come out of their self-imposed shells and show to the world their true mettle.

- Anonymous