Racing Toward Her Dream, One Kart at a Time
Alana Gurney’s love for motorsport was sparked at an early age. Starting out at just four years old, she raced dirt karts around her family’s property, and by seven, she was officially competing at Stony Creek in Victoria. Since then, she’s been hooked on the thrill of racing.
“I love the speed, the adrenaline, and racing against the boys,” Alana says, and it’s clear that her passion for karting only grows stronger with each race. Now, in the Cadet 12 category, Alana is firmly establishing herself as one of the top junior drivers in Australia. Along with her family, she travels around Victoria, often camping on-site at country tracks, to compete at events. Occasionally, she races interstate, chasing that next big win.
Her impressive track record speaks for itself. With over 100 race wins in her short career, including when Alana won the Pink Plate in 2023 and recently in 2025, a prestigious event for female drivers. Alana notably made history as the first female to win the Summer Series in 2024. Alana’s other prominent achievements include a podium finish at her first Australian Nationals in 2023, multiple heat wins in 2024/2025, and earning the titles of Victorian Karter of the Year (2023 & 2024) and Oakleigh Club Champion(2022 & 2024).
Despite her rising success, Alana has her eyes set on even greater heights—Formula 1. “The ultimate goal is F1, but I’d be happy driving anything!” she says, her enthusiasm for the sport infectious. While she is currently competing as an amateur, working hard to make her mark in the junior ranks, Alana’s ambitions are clear: she aims to turn her passion into a professional career.
Her journey was recently given a significant boost when she was invited to Italy to participate in the Iron Dames Young Talent Camp in 2024. There, she participated in timed practices and mock-race simulations on an international-level track and got the chance to experience different go-karts, further developing her skills. “It was an amazing experience to race on a track used in international events,” Alana reflects.
Alana currently races with a Mini Rok 60cc engine and a Cadet chassis, achieving speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour. The Cadet 12 category is competitive and requires drivers to qualify, race through heats, and perform well in the final to earn their position. Alana thrives on the challenge, especially as one of the few female drivers in the sport. “It’s tough, and the racing is close, but I love challenging the boys,” she shares.
While Alana’s journey has only just begun, her dedication and accomplishments thus far are a testament to her potential. With the support of her family and a relentless work ethic, Alana Gurney is well on her way to chasing her dream of becoming a professional driver, with her eyes set firmly on the world stage.
Alana’s journey wouldn’t be possible without the support of her team and loved ones. “My dad is my mechanic, and my mum and sister are always there, cheering me on,” Alana shares. “All my friends make it so much fun to go racing, and I’m so thankful for their support.”
Alana’s words of encouragement for those interested in karting are simple: “If you want to try it, give it a go. Don’t be intimidated.”
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