WorldWCR Meet Nicole Van Aswegen

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Her story: Meet Nicole Van Aswegen

Almost 20 Years of Racing Excellence

Nicole Van Aswegen, with nearly two decades of racing experience, proudly represents South Africa in the WorldWCR. A former international gymnast, she discovered her passion for racing through her family’s influence. Competing for 18 years, she has primarily raced in South Africa, with some international appearances.

Nicole’s First Motorcycle Memory:
“My dad surprised me with my first motorcycle, a Yamaha TZR 50, on the back of his red bakkie (pick-up truck). My parents were involved in drag racing, but I was busy with gymnastics and cheerleading, so I wasn’t allowed to race. Despite some club drag racing, my friends and I frequently watched superbike races. I told my dad I wanted to race, and he said to finish school first.”

The Long Road to WorldWCR

Van Aswegen began racing in 2006, taking a year off when she became a mother. She was the first female to race in the South African national 600cc championship and podium in a national supersport 600cc event. In 2010, she won the South African Female 600cc championship and has finished second in her regional 600cc championship and third in the regional superbike championship. Progressing from the 300cc and 400cc South African national championships to the 600cc class, she has been a frontrunner and podium finisher against male competitors and is now prepared for the WorldWCR.

During her racing career, she balanced selling motorcycles and parts with her race schedule. Meeting her husband, who owned a welding company closed on weekends, allowed her to join the company and spend weekends at the race tracks together.

Representing South Africa

Van Aswegen is proud to represent South Africa on the world stage, aiming to inspire her compatriots with her hard work and dedication. She acknowledges the financial struggles faced by many racers in her country and expresses gratitude for the support she has received.

Nicole on Learning from Racing:
“I’ve learned the most from myself. Racing is mentally challenging. Competing internationally is tough, but it has taught me to be mentally strong. This mindset translates to business and daily life. Despite injuries, I stay committed and dedicated.”

The Mother-Daughter Bond

Nicole draws inspiration from her daughter, who started riding motorbikes at two years old and now owns a PW50. Balancing racing with motherhood has taught Nicole the importance of mental strength and finding life balance.

Rapid-Fire Questions with Nicole:

Why motorcycle racing? “It’s the best sport in the world, requiring dedication, hard work, and mindset.”
Hobbies: “Boxing, running, and training.”
Favorite motorcycle racer: “Marc Marquez for his motivation, humility, and resilience.”
Female athlete inspiration: “Simone Biles, for her longevity and success in gymnastics.”
Race preparation: “Gym sessions, test bike riding, proper rest, and track studies.”
Challenges as a female racer: “Competing in a male-dominated sport and overcoming physical size differences.”
Season goal: “Learning all racetracks and aiming for top 10 finishes.”
Competing in WorldWCR: “It’s an honor, and I’m grateful for the support that has made this possible.”
Message to aspiring female riders: “With hard work, determination, and belief, we can achieve anything. We are strong and equal.”

Nicole Van Aswegen’s journey and experiences underscore her resilience, dedication, and passion for racing, making her a powerful role model for aspiring female riders.