In our 9th portrait of an exceptional woman for the “Women in powersports” series, we’re proud to feature Corry Weller, Can-Am Off-Road racer and ambassador. The purpose of this series is to celebrate the determination, leadership and commitment of women who make a difference in the powersports industry.
Unlike most of her racing peers, Corry didn’t grow up in a racing family or race throughout her formative years. In fact, Corry is something of a latecomer to off-road racing. At 29, on her first-ever ride on a motocross track, she knew instinctively that she’d found her calling and has been racing ever since. In 2008, she began racing UTV, also known as side-by-side vehicles (SSV) and, in 2011, won her first professional UTV championship. The UTV racing phenom has since gone on to rack up 14 more UTV championship wins.
In addition to being an off-road superstar, Corry is an entrepreneur. When not on a racetrack, she can be found at Weller Racing, the business she and her husband co-own. Weller Racing builds and repairs SSV motors, and offers a wide selection of parts.
When we spoke with Corry about her experiences in the powersports industry, we found her passion for racing to be pure energy.
Why did you choose Can-Am Off-Road, a BRP brand?
I knew immediately that I wanted to race a Can-Am when the national series in which I race announced a new Production Turbo UTV class. The X3 is a superior machine all around. What I didn’t know at the time was that Can-Am is incredibly supportive of its racers. I am so glad to be part of the Can-Am race family!
What’s it like to be a woman at BRP and in the powersports industry?
Because there is no “women’s class” in motocross, I have always competed against men. I see myself as a racer, period. My gender isn’t relevant. Early in my career, I was intentional about not promoting a gender stereotype. I didn’t wear pink, for example. Most of my competitors have perceived me as simply a fellow racer fighting for that Number One spot on the track. In my experience, this industry has been welcoming, and I fit right in. I have enjoyed it immensely!
How have things changed for women since you entered this industry?
Nowadays, we see more female powersports product owners, racers, and employees. As more women have shown interest in this industry, the opportunities for them have increased, especially in the past seven years. Women have a lot to offer the powersports industry – and many other industries – and offering more opportunities to women benefits the industry.
What still needs to be done?
The only factors that separate men from women in this industry are firsthand knowledge and hands-on experience. Women can change that by immersing themselves in the industry and learning the mechanical side as well as the business side. When anyone has this knowledge and experience, they are respected.
What advice do you have for women in business?
I’m still learning on a daily basis, so I don’t have all the answers. I will say that knowing the product has been key for me. My confidence in my business comes from knowing my product inside and out. Also, I am who I am in business and on the race track – a person who has something valuable to offer.
Do you do things to promote women in your field?
This is an important point. I share other women’s successes on social media and in person. I also try to set an example through my own success, which I hope encourages women to see this industry as fun, exciting, and welcoming. The world of off-road racing really is for everyone.
“Women have a lot to offer the powersports industry—and many other industries—and offering more opportunities to women benefits the industry.”
