Mallory Dobbs' journey into the world of motorsports might not have followed the conventional path, but it’s a testament to her resilience, determination, and passion. Growing up, Mallory didn’t dream of motorcycles or fast cars. Instead, she spent her youth competing in horse shows, reaching the world stage by 2008. Little did she know that one day, her competitive drive would transition from horseback riding to the race track, leading her to become one of 24 women selected for the inaugural WorldWCR Championship.
By day, Mallory is a professional civil engineer designing water and sewer systems across California. But when she's not in the office, she’s on the race track, chasing her passion for motorsports. Her introduction to the world of racing started unexpectedly at 22, after reluctantly riding on the back of her then-boyfriend's motorcycle. "I hated it," she recalls, "so I bought my own bike!" That decision set in motion a series of events that led her to her first track day, and as she says, "I was hooked!" Just six months later, she bought her first race bike, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Mallory’s journey to racing at the world championship level is filled with surprises, challenges, and self-discovery. When she began racing at the local club level, it was purely for fun and camaraderie. But soon, the competitive spirit kicked in when MotoAmerica came to her home track at The Ridge Motorsports Park. This led her to chase national competitions in 2022, and by 2023, she was competing in two classes—Supersport and Super Hooligans.
Even when the WorldWCR Championship was announced, Mallory had her doubts. "I wasn’t sure if I could compete with the best girls in the world," she admits. Despite the obstacles, including crashes, self-doubt, and logistical challenges, she persevered. "The common theme through all of them is that I overcame them all to get where I am now."
Considering Mallory’s beginnings in horse riding, she didn’t grow up idolising motorsports figures. However, one figure has stood out as a role model—Caroline Olsen. "She paved the way for being a talented racer, not because she was a woman, but because she was truly exceptional." Although they have never met in person, Olsen’s words of encouragement have been a motivating force for Mallory during tough times.
One of Mallory's most memorable racing moments wasn’t necessarily about the finish line. At Laguna Seca, where she finished 7th in SuperHooligans, the highlight for her was hearing her title sponsor cheering from the pit wall. "Having someone truly believe in me made all the hard times worth it," she says. This emotional support, coupled with her own determination, has been a driving force in her racing career.
Competing in the first-ever WorldWCR Championship still feels surreal to Mallory. As the only American selected for the event, she’s incredibly proud of her accomplishment. But with this honour comes the pressure of living up to expectations. After a challenging start to the season, Mallory admits to feeling deflated, but she remains focused on her goals. "I want to have at least one top 5 finish and end the season in the top 10."
Looking ahead, Mallory’s aspirations stretch far beyond this season. In the long term, she dreams of racing in World SSP, Moto E, World Endurance, or even the NW 200. Her love for racing has become so deeply ingrained in her life that she hopes to keep pushing boundaries in the sport she’s grown to love.
If given the chance, Mallory would love to race at Spa-Francorchamps. This is from watching her rider coach, Jason Pridemore, compete in an 8-hour endurance race at the infamous track. She describes her coach as a “legend in the sport”, and with him describing Spa as “the best track [he’s] ever ridden on”, it’s no wonder she’s so eager to experience it herself!
When asked about advice for aspiring young women racers, Mallory is clear: "Do what makes your heart happy!" She encourages others to pursue their dreams, no matter what anyone else says. "The worst that can happen is that you fail, but you take all of the experiences along the way with you."
It was an absolute pleasure to interview Mallory, her story as unique and incredible as she is on track. It seems for her, the only way left to go is up and we can only wish her the best of luck for the rest of the season!
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