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'Once you're behind the wheel it doesn’t matter who you're racing against' - SA's Kaylan Miller speaks on cars, motorsport and changing perceptions

Image: Supplied
Image: Supplied

Born and raised in the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg, Kalyn Miller was captivated by the rush of speed, cars and the desire to get behind the wheel from an early age.

Now, at the age of 25, this young lady is not only participating in a male-dominated sport, but she’s competing with them too, and is hot on their heels. 

Kalyn’s father, Kevin, has been involved in the motor racing industry for over 40 years. He’s also been Kalyn’s role model and her hero since she was in nappies.

As a toddler, her mother Lynne, took Kalyn with her to the track when her dad was racing, it was here that Kalyn first fell in love with the sport and her passion for cars began.

kalyn miller

                                               Image: Supplied

In 2009, at the tender age of 15, Kalyn participated in her first race at the Midvaal raceway in the Development Series. The vehicle she raced in wasn’t just any vehicle, she raced in a bakkie that she helped build from scratch, from sanding and stripping paint, to helping with the motor build and setup. Then in 2017, she participated in her first championship, where she took the title, a highlight she will never forget.

"Motor racing is a male dominant sport and I had to stand my ground and earn my right to a place among 'the guys'. It was intimidating at first, but, once you are behind the wheel it doesn’t matter who you are racing against all you are worried about is keeping them behind you!" says Miller.

Kalyn believes men and women should be given equal opportunities; one shouldn’t be stereotyped according to their gender. Working two jobs to finance her racing, she dreams of having the opportunity of competing overseas as the sport has gained a lot of popularity with females in the international market.

When she’s not hanging out with 'the guys', or on the track, she enjoys treating herself to some 'me-time,' which includes a good massage or having her nails done.

kalyn miller

                                                  Image: Supplied

Kalyn has entered 2019 in class A in a 1600cc turbo charged car and is competing against well-known and experienced competitors.

Kalyn recently became the first female driver to win Class A in the Sports & Saloons in the opening race at Red Star Raceway on Saturday, 20 June. She then piloted her Midas Kia to fourth place in the second heat to claim overall victory for the day.

Her message to potential female motorsport competitors out there:"No matter what, never let your passion become your fear due to other people’s opinions. You can do anything you set your mind to and are passionate about."

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