Leah Kane, a 17-year-old racing driver from Curragha, Co. Meath, was born into the world of motorsport. Having grown up standing on the ditches at rallies, her passion for the sport was sparked at a young age. Her Dad, Alan Kane, began his own career at 16, debuting in the Monaghan Stages Rally. To this day, he still drives the Ford Escort MkII he purchased back in 1995. After years of competing in rallies across Ireland, Alan transitioned into hillclimbs, encouraged by the late Simon McKinley.
The racing talent in the family also extends to Leah’s mother, Della O’Reilly, who competed in a Cinquecento in 2015, securing an impressive 3rd in class in the Irish Hillclimb Championship. With such a background, it was only natural for Leah to begin her own competitive career in 2024.
Leah first started racing in April 2024 in the Junior class in Hillclimb. Competing in a Cinquecento, she had a very special mentor by her side: her Dad, Alan, who stepped back from his own competitive driving to act as her navigator. The partnership proved historic, as Leah went on to become the first-ever Junior Champion for Irish Hillclimbs.
After a successful debut year, Leah took a break in 2025 to focus on a new project: building her new Mini. Leah has now returned to the track for the 2026 Irish Hill Climb and Sprint Championship, which is already off to a brilliant start.
The 2026 season brings a change in the co-driver’s seat. Billy White of Speed Developments has stepped in to navigate for Leah. An experienced competitor himself, Billy brings a wealth of experience, patience, and support to the team. Leah prepared for this year’s championship by competing in the ICCR Mini Scholarship, where she placed a fantastic 4th, gaining vital experience before the season began.
At the season opener in March in Ballyorgan, organised by Limerick Motor Club, Leah secured a podium finish on both days in a large Class 1J field. Leah has continued with good success in the Carrick On Suir Motor Club’s Hillclimb and Wexford Motor Club’s Hillclimb, finishing 3rd and 4th on both days of each. These great results mean that Leah is now leading Class 1J in the Alekto.ie Hillclimb & Sprint Championship.
For Leah, the journey is just beginning. While she looks forward to many more hills, she also has her sights set on following in her Dad’s footsteps by entering the world of rallying.
“The hillclimb community is the most welcoming and friendliest group,” Leah says. “Everyone is very helpful and so supportive… it’s what makes racing so enjoyable.”
With a champion’s title already under her belt and a new car under her feet, the future of Irish motorsport looks bright for this young Meath driver.