Chongqing - Engines roar as motorcycles race over obstacles, leaving a trail of dust marked by a distinctive red bow tie on a helmet. Wu Puhui, recognized by the moniker "Bow Tie Rider,” races back to the motocross with a red bow tie.

On April 15, at the motocross base in the Yubei District of Chongqing, the red bow tie on the helmet is the signature of Wu Puhui. (Photo/Liu Li)

She first gained public attention for her voluntary efforts in transporting supplies during the 2022 Chongqing Jinyun mountain fire rescue. This year, she's returned to the motocross scene, eager to reclaim her identity as a rider and challenge herself against both the track and her limits.

Wu's choice of a red bow tie on her helmet isn't just a style statement but a bold declaration of female strength in a male-dominated field. Born in Chengdu in 1997, she humorously calls herself "Ugly Monster" online, a playful contradiction to her approachable personality, recognized for its liveliness and warmth.

Born in Chengdu in 1997, Wu Puhui first gained public attention for her voluntary efforts in transporting supplies during the 2022 Chongqing Jinyun mountain fire rescue. This year, she's returned to the motocross scene to reclaim her identity as a rider. (Photo/Liu Li)

Post-marriage, Wu balances her personal and professional life, continuing her intensive training regimen. Her preparation is physically demanding, involving climbing 32 floors multiple times each day to build the endurance and strength necessary for the rigorous demands of motocross racing.

On April 12, at the first Sichuan-Chongqing New Energy Motocross City Obstacle Race, Wu performed excellently, conquering steep inclines and rugged terrains to finish third in the women's category. This achievement was celebrated amidst applause and admiration for her tenacity and skill.

However, motocross is not just about physical prowess but also about resilience. During a practice session, Wu experienced a severe fall; although equipped with protective gear, it took her a while to recover and continue training. She faces many testaments to her determination during the practice.

During a practice session, Wu Puhui faced numerous challenges that tested her determination and resilience. Her ability to overcome these difficulties led to her outstanding performance in the race. (Photo/Liu Li)

Wu and her husband, Li Youlin, who supports her ambitions wholeheartedly, share a dynamic that nurtures both personal and professional growth. Li handles the homefront, allowing Wu to focus on her passion. They plan to start a family, but only after Wu feels she has achieved her racing goals.

Training is just one part of her daily routine. Wu also dedicates time to mentoring young riders at a motocross base she co-manages, emphasizing the importance of safety and technique over mere performance.

Her approach to fame is unconventional in the digital era. Unlike many who capitalize on viral fame for financial gain, Wu remains focused on her passion for motocross and training, choosing to invest her energy in real-world interactions rather than virtual ones. This has earned her respect in both her online and offline communities.

Despite opportunities to capitalize on her internet fame, Wu Puhui focuses on her passion for motocross rather than online engagement, aiming to inspire and teach rather than merely entertain. (Photo/Liu Li)

Reflecting on her journey, Wu appreciates the confidence and caution her unexpected fame has instilled in her. She remains committed to being a positive role model, conscious of her influence and the responsibilities that come with public attention.

In a world where digital presence can define a person, Wu Puhui, the "Bow Tie Rider," stands out by grounding her life in the realities of motocross and the tangible impact she can have on those around her, one race and one training session at a time.

(Zhu Ting and Liu Li, as Chinese reporters from Chongqing Daily, also contributed to this article.)