MEET THE ATHLETE: EBONY NEILSEN

Beta Australia has intensified its racing efforts in 2024, showcasing a variety of racers across a range of disciplines aboard Beta’s impressive motorcycles. Over the next few weeks, we’ll introduce you to some of Beta’s Australian athletes. This week, get to know Ebony Nielsen.

Give us your vital stats.
Ebony Nielsen (Benny), originally from Glasshouse Mountains, now living in Kingaroy Qld. 26 years
old. 

When did you start riding and when did you start competing? 
I started riding at about 5 years old on a XR50 and then racing the Demo class on this bike at Coolum
Mx at about 6-7. After upgrading to a 65cc I gave away riding until I was about 12 and began racing enduro when I was 13. 

What has your most memorable achievement been so far in your racing career? 
Racing the 2022 ISDE in France and placing 3rd with the Australian Women’s Trophy Team. 

You joined the Beta Motorcycles Australia Team in late 2023, how did the relationship come
about? 
We crossed paths late in the season in 2023, I had been keen on trying a Beta for a while. When the
opportunity arose to be a part of the team, I couldn’t say no.   
 
What is the new twin-spark RR 300 Racing like to ride and to compete on? 
It’s a really smooth bike to ride, I have been gelling with it really well. It had a lot of torque for the hard enduro and plenty of go about it for the faster style races. 
  
What are you hoping to achieve this season?  
This year I hope to achieve my 9th Qld Enduro Championship, compete at a high level in the Silver
category in the Aus Hard Enduro and complete my first full season of Australian Off-road
Championship. 

 What tips do you have for those looking to enter the world of hard enduro? 
A lot of people don’t understand hard enduro, don’t knock it until you try it! Hard enduro is a different
animal and the sense of achievement you receive after finishing an event is like no other. Grab a
gummy tyre, get used to doing long rides on the bike in tricky terrain, then put your entry in for your
first race! 
 
What tips do you have for girls/women looking to enter the world of riding? 
If you’re keen, get out there and do it. Find a bike you are comfortable on and reach out to a coach if
you need. The sport has a lot of female coaches now across all disciplines, a coach can help you
shake the nerves and get you ready for the world of riding. Their is also a lot of Facebook group that
organise girls/women’s ride days if your more comfortable heading out riding with other females or if
don’t have anyone to ride with.