Oreoluwa Ojo, aka DOT09, is a pharmacologist and Nigeria’s fastest female super biker, winning the 600cc title for three years consecutively. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about how it all started, her memorable moments and the potential in the sector.
HAT was the experience like the first day you rode a Superbike?
It was scary at first. Then I got on the road alone heading to Owerri in Imo State. At that point, I told myself, it’s either you do this or you get knocked down by a very slow car. I think that pushed me a bit and the rest is history now.
Did you go through a training process?
Yes I did, and I still do on a constant basis. First, I attended Ride Safe Academy in Port Harcourt and presently, I am being trained by Prowheels Motorcycle School in Lagos for the yearly BT race.
What was the turning point in your career as a rider?
I think the turning point for me was in 2014 when I participated in the BT race. Then, we didn’t have a circuit as we have now; it was an in town ride then. I was the only female on the track then. It was filled with great memories and it was fun really; with the adrenaline pumping and all. From that moment, I said I will always race and I haven’t looked back since then.
Do you think Nigerian bikers can compare favourably with their colleagues in other parts of the world?
Considering the unfavourable circumstances here, in terms of the bad roads and unruly road users, we still ride and ride safe. I can bet if we are anywhere we would ride and ride good…if not better.
What are some of the things you do to keep fit?
I swim, I dance and ride.
Is there an umbrella body and what are the benefits of being a member?
Yes, I am part of COLSAN. This is the Christian Bikers Association. I am first a Christian before being a biker and riding has brought me closer to God. I pray better while on the road. COLSAN helps us to reach out to people, evangelise because people are attracted to Superbikes; it’s a distraction and brings them around to listen to what we have to say. Spreading the Gospel of Christ is what we do at COLSAN. We also meet the needs of the poor.
What inspired you to go into riding Superbike?
It is a very interesting story and I am glad that I made up my mind to go into this. I was at my hotel in Rivers State one evening and I saw this tall, fine looking, heavily built bike with big tyres. From that moment, I said to myself, I will ride one of this and here I am today – riding.
Let’s talk about your experience and some of the recognitions and awards that you have garnered in the process
Looking back now, I would say that riding has been a beautiful experience for me. It’s been very interesting and quite memorable; every experience is unique and different. Since I started riding, I have travelled across the nation and I have enjoyed every trip because it brings new opportunities and ideas.
I have also visited some West African countries and the list includes Benin Republic, Togo and Ghana .In addition, I have found a special passion for racing and I have been on the track since 2014.The past four years have been eventful and I gave every experience my best. This has earned me the title as the first female champion on the 600cc for three years consecutively. It’s been great.
What excites you and motivates the things you do?
I am motivated by challenges, it actually keeps me going. The drive to conquer, to be the best and to prove that nothing is impossible to accomplish, if the mind is set to it. This helps to push you further, breaking new grounds as you move ahead.
What are some memorable moments in your life and career?
There are a number of memorable moments which I cherish so much. However, having to combine riding with my full time job, which is from 9 am to 5pm daily has been enlightening. It has helped me to balance my time and schedules in such a way that both lives blend perfectly. In addition, I would say that life as a brand ambassador and the Best Institution Executive, 2017 in my career and the Fastest Female Rider 2017 as a biker has been a great source of inspiration. These recognitions keep me going. I couldn’t ask for more.
What are some of the challenges encountered?
As a female in a society like ours, friends and family tend to wonder what exactly is going on, then sometimes it intimidates some men. But when I get to talk passionately about my riding and all, they all come around and then give me so much support.
How do you cope with them?
I just keep talking and educating my way out.
Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life and career?
My greatest influence is my mom. Hmm, you should see that woman; she has taught me so much and her drive daily has helped me to be who I am today. I respect, appreciate and value the impact she has made in my life.
What are some of the other things that occupy your time?
If not riding, I spend most of my free time attending to people’s needs. I am a pharmacologist and I own a small pharmacy. So I am there attending to patients. Life is beautiful when you touch lives and there are so many people around who need to be motivated and encouraged.
Let’s compare when you started and now, what has changed?
My network of friends is one thing that has changed. The truth of the matter is that riding has exposed me to a side of life that I wouldn’t have seen if I didn’t ride.
What are some of the changes that you would like to see in the sector?
I would like to see a safer riding culture; not that riders don’t ride safe, but it can be better. I think that government and stakeholders can also put a number of measures in place to ensure safety. In addition, I would also like to see more ladies in the sector.
What is your definition of style?
Simple and classy.
What are some of the items that you treasure most in your wardrobe?
My shoes.
How do you relax?
I love the beach scene. The calmness, breeze and tides.
What are some of the principles that you hold onto in life?
I strongly believe that there is really nothing impossible. My advice usually would be, don’t walk away because the door is closed… Push
Let’s talk about the people you admire and role models
I really don’t have a role model, however, I love the teachings of Pastor Sam Adeyemi of Daystar Christian Centre. Not just because I attend his church but asides from the word of God he shares, I see wisdom and intellect in his teachings.
If you had to advise young people, what would you tell them?
I believe that young people are putting in their best and they need to be encouraged from time to time. Personally, I would say that, ‘Nothing except you can stop you from becoming who you are.’ It is very important for you to develop yourself and work hard.