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This month, The Litas Southern Pines Chapter rolled into their one-year anniversary of bringing the global woman’s motorcycle collective to The Sandhills. Since their start, the crew has participated in educational training sessions, group rides, socials and a moto-camping trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains. The mission of The Litas Collective is to “inspire and empower women through community and our shared love of motorcycles.” There are no fees and no leaders — just a group of women who have a love for two wheels, community and the open road.

Image contributed by The Litas Southern Pines.

How’d this chapter get started locally?

It all started with a scroll. Just over a year ago, 15-year motorcycle enthusiast and local real estate broker Ryan Derrick found content from The Litas Atlanta Chapter on Instagram — before she knew it, she was researching the requirements to start a chapter locally. Yes, there were already chapters in Raleigh and Charlotte, but she envisioned something in between. The parameters were pretty straight-forward: to establish a chapter, one must have monthly events and have three co-founders.

Derrick quickly reached out to Fontana Palmer. And together, the two approached Rachael Turecamo, who works at Cox’s Double Eagle Harley Davidson in Carthage, with the idea to initiate the local group. When all three women were decidedly all-in, they started to organize how to get members and plan events and rides. They were ready to make this idea a reality.

What’s it like being part of the chapter?

Today, The Litas Southern Pines Chapter has about 30 active riders, with others working on getting their license. “You don’t have to ride to sign up,” says Derrick. “But you do need your license to go on rides.” Road safety is the No. 1 priority.

“We have so many beautiful and unique women in our group, and we learn so much from each other. That has been my favorite thing.” The group consists of riders of all skill levels: From a veteran accustomed to riding solo for weeks at a time to those interested in taking lessons. The chapter meets once a month to build their bond, educate themselves on maintenance and safety practices, ride, and plan the next adventure.

Their first event was a maintenance teaching night in partnership with The Litas Raleigh Chapter, and their biggest event of the year was the moto-camping trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains. The group also hosted a garage party in April to introduce themselves to the motorcycle community. With a band and food, they welcomed more than 200 people to the event.

The more experienced riders share their knowledge with the group and help take the lead roles on rides; and the inclusive environment encourages all members to learn and try out new things. “It is the coolest feeling to see all these women riding,” says Derrick. “Everyone has something to bring to the table.”

The Litas Southern Pines Chapter is currently planning a four-day moto-camping trip to Narrowsburg, N.Y. in June for “Babes Ride Out East Coast,” held to meet up with other women riders.

Image contributed by The Litas Southern Pines.

How Can I Learn More?

To get involved, email thelitassouthernpines@gmail.com or follow along on Instagram.

For bike inquiries or info on Harley Davidson’s “Learn to Ride” Program, contact co-founder Rachael at (910) 420-1564.

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