WCR Meet Lena Kemmer - World Racing News

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Lena Kemmer, Bertl K. Racing Team
Austrian, 20

Austrian Engineer Pursues Her Racing Dreams

From Childhood Memories to World Championship
Twenty-year-old Austrian Lena Kemmer’s passion for motorcycles began in her childhood, watching her father race. Today, she proudly represents Austria as a rider in the inaugural WorldWCR season, rising swiftly to the top ranks. Beyond racing, Kemmer is also a skilled mechanical engineer with a knack for building prototypes and racing finely-tuned machinery.

Early Days on Two Wheels
Kemmer’s love for motorcycles started on her grandfather’s land, where she and her sister rode while their father raced. She recalls, “We rode around the tracks and had fun. I was five, and my sister was a bit older. My parents insisted I learn to ride a bicycle first, but I was determined to ride motorcycles before I could even pedal a bike!” After a brief pause, she resumed riding at around age 11, mostly in the forest. Soon, she aspired to follow in her father’s footsteps on the track.

Following Her Father’s Path
Lena’s father, Herbert Kemmer, was a seasoned racer, competing in Austrian national championships and endurance races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Racing ran in the family, with many uncles and cousins also involved. Initially hesitant to encourage Lena due to the demands of the sport, Herbert became fully supportive after witnessing her natural talent and dedication. “When we started pit bike racing, he saw how serious I was and how quickly I improved. From then on, both of my parents supported me all the way,” Lena shares.

Rapid Progress in Racing
At 14, Kemmer began racing pit bikes at a local karting track, quickly outpacing adult competitors. She first tried circuit racing in 2020 on a 250cc bike and entered the Austrian Junior Cup in 2021 and 2022, earning notable finishes at the Red Bull Ring. In 2023, she competed in the Women’s European Championship before joining the WorldWCR grid for the inaugural season of this exciting new series.

Admiring a Favorite Rider
When asked about her favorite rider, Lena quickly names Pedro Acosta. “He’s incredibly talented, a completely different rider compared to others,” she explains. “It’s amazing how he can switch bikes and immediately perform at the top. The older riders have more experience, yet he’s faster.” Lena and her father often watch Acosta’s races together, analyzing his technique to improve her own skills.

Engineering Talent at Work
In addition to racing, Lena is a mechanical engineer at AVL List, a leading company in mobility technology. She works on the concept vehicle team, building prototypes and exploring innovative engine concepts. “We do a lot of different things, from building cable harnesses to working on the milling machine. It’s complicated, but I enjoy the variety and the challenge,” Lena explains.

Inspiration from Ellen Lohr
Lena draws inspiration from Ellen Lohr, a trailblazing German race car driver who competed in the DTM, NASCAR Whelen Euro Series, and Dakar Rally. “Ellen Lohr showed that women can excel in racing. She was the first woman to win a DTM race, proving that women can succeed in motorsports,” Lena says. The connection is particularly special as Lohr is now the Director of Motorsports at AVL List, supporting Lena’s racing career.

Exploring in Her Free Time
Lena’s first street bike was an Aprilia RS125, which she later upgraded to an RS660. Although she doesn’t currently own a street bike, she loves exploring new places whenever she can. “Even when running or cycling, I like to take different routes and discover cool new spots,” Lena says.

Part of a Historic New Championship
“It’s unbelievable to be part of a World Championship after such a short time in racing. I’m proud to represent Austria as the only woman from my country in the championship,” Lena shares. “Knowing that other girls see me racing and get inspired is incredibly motivating. I hope to encourage more women and girls to get into racing. Maybe one day, I’ll even start a racing school for girls. I just want to use my experience to inspire others.”

Lena is currently 16th in the WorldWCR standings, with her best result being
an 11th place finish at Misano.

WorldWCR will return to action at the Acerbis Italian Round
from September 20th to 22nd at the Cremona Circuit.

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