Valerie Thompson

Valerie Thompson: America’s Queen of Speed

Known as "America’s Queen of Speed," Valerie Thompson is a living legend in the world of motorcycle racing, holding seven land speed records and earning the distinction of being one of the fastest women on two wheels. Thompson has broken barriers and records alike, blazing past the 300 mph mark on the Bonneville Salt Flats and cementing her place as one of the greatest riders in the sport.

Her illustrious career began with a passion for drag racing, and over a decade later, that fire still fuels her pursuit of speed and records. Valerie’s achievements span across an impressive variety of motorcycles, including Harley-Davidsons and BMWs. She is a proud member of the renowned Bonneville 200 MPH Club, a prestigious honor reserved for riders who have exceeded the 200 mph milestone at Bonneville, and she is also a member of the Bonneville BUB Speed Trial 201 MPH Club. Her incredible skill has earned her additional memberships in the Mojave Magnum 200 MPH Club, the ECTA 200 MPH Club, the Texas Mile 200 MPH Club, and the Colorado Mile, where she clocked a personal best of 217.7 mph on a BMW S1000 RR at the Texas Mile in 2014.

In 2016, Valerie shook the racing world with an astonishing performance at the Bonneville Motorcycle Speed Trials. On only her fifth run in a streamlined motorcycle, she recorded a jaw-dropping speed of 304.263 mph, earning her the prestigious "Fastest Time of the Meet" award and placing her among the elite in land speed racing history.

Outside the track, Valerie's life is just as full. She works as a vehicle presenter for the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company and Metro Auto Auctions in Arizona. Between her professional commitments and racing endeavors, she finds time to give back, supporting charitable organizations and inspiring children facing personal challenges. Her contributions to both the racing community and philanthropy earned her the "American Women Riders Community Hero Award" in 2011.

Valerie Thompson continues to inspire both racers and fans alike, pushing the limits of what’s possible on two wheels while paving the way for future generations of speed enthusiasts. With her eye on new records and uncharted speeds, Valerie’s legacy is only getting faster.