Dartmoor teen reaches International Ice Driving Finals

A 16-year-old student from Dartmoor is preparing to take on the world after reaching the finals of a prestigious international women’s driving competition set on the ice in Sweden.

Aiyana Lane, who studies at Exeter College, has been selected as one of just 10 UK finalists from a global field of more than 150 entrants spanning 46 countries. She will now represent her country in the unique event, which tests drivers’ speed and control on a frozen lake.

The competition, organised by Racing Women, offers a significant prize for the winner — a seat in the Radical Cup UK Championship along with professional mentoring.

The finals, taking place in Sweden from March 16 to 19, will see competitors face extreme conditions as they demonstrate their handling skills on ice, a challenge far removed from traditional racing circuits.

For Aiyana, the achievement marks a remarkable step in a motorsport journey that only began last year. Inspired by her passion for Formula One, she took up go-karting over the summer and quickly set her sights on a professional racing career.

Since then, she has dedicated herself to gaining as much driving experience as possible. Her rapid progression has been evident, with her selection for the finals reflecting months of commitment and determination.

Despite her success, the transition has not been without its challenges. At just 16, Aiyana had not yet begun learning to drive before entering the competition. Since being selected, she has immersed herself in preparation — from track sessions and professional tuition to skid pan training and even practising in a 4x4 vehicle on local terrain.

The competition is also being documented, with filming underway for a forthcoming documentary that will follow the finalists’ journeys.

As she prepares to compete on the international stage for the first time, Aiyana is embracing the opportunity and the experience that comes with it — a promising sign of what could lie ahead in her motorsport career.