I have raced with/against some VERY aggressive women, and seen equally devastating crashes in the women's field as the men's. I have a couple of female racing friends who can never race their bikes again due to concussions. I know others who have broken collar bones, pelvis, ribs, etc.

While I, personally, am risk averse, there are others who are not. Being able to ride smart and defensively is part of racing, regardless of gender.

I also co-direct our junior boys race team - they crash A LOT! It's a combination of no fear, lack of experience and raging hormones .

Just a different perspective from a female racer who hasn't crashed, but has been elbowed and pushed into barriers/tape on more than one occasion .

SheFly