For off-road rally racer Kirsten Landman, the harder the course, the clearer the purpose

Kirsten Landman, from Cape Town, South Africa, is a professional off-road, rally, and hard enduro rider. She started riding at eight and turned professional at 22. Growing up as a tomboy in a motorcycle family, she was drawn to extreme sports early on. 

‘My father and I shared this love, making it a significant part of my life. Initially, it wasn't about becoming a professional; it was just something we enjoyed,’ says Landman. ‘As I grew older and started competing at 14, my competitive spirit kicked in, but it was always rooted in fun.’ 

Competing against men in challenging terrains drives her passion for racing. Starting her career 25 years ago, Kirsten had no female role models and had to compete against men, which she believes made her faster and tougher. She notes that lack of exposure is a significant challenge for women in motorsports, with media and sponsorships often favouring men. One of her proudest achievements is finishing the 2023 Dakar Rally in the Original by Motul category, racing without assistance.

GQ learned more about her inspiring journey and her charge forward in a male-dominated sport.

GQ: How do you prepare physically and mentally for the demanding nature of Hard Enduro races?

KL: I ensure my bike is in top condition. I do all the mechanical work on my bikes. Knowing I’m responsible for my bike’s performance gives me confidence during races. I maintain peak physical fitness. Training in conditions similar to the race helps me prepare mentally and physically. Knowing I’ve done all the hard work boosts my confidence, allowing me to focus on enjoying the race. Mental toughness is crucial. Setbacks are tough, especially with an injury-prone career. I use them as opportunities to reassess and come back stronger. Mental health support has been crucial, especially after my mom's passing. My passion for the sport and my late mother’s strength keeps me motivated.

GQ: How do you balance your personal life with the rigorous demands of professional racing?

KL: Early in my career, I had no balance, which led to burnout and an accident. That experience taught me the importance of enjoying life and spending time with loved ones. Now, I prioritize balance, cherishing time with family and friends, and having fun in my sport.

GQ: How can the industry better support female racers?

KL: Sponsorship is crucial; I rely on it entirely. To better support female racers, the industry needs to provide more media coverage, which will attract sponsors and inspire young girls. This exposure will help grow female participation in the sport. There’s been slow but positive change regarding gender inclusivity, especially in the last five years. More girls are competing, and sponsors are showing interest. Social media and global movements supporting women in sports have been game changers. We need more exposure for female racers. Showcasing their stories can inspire others. Developing grassroots initiatives, like Motorsport clinics for girls, can help make the sport more accessible and encourage more female participation.

GQ: Your tips for aspiring female racers who want to get into Hard Enduro?

KL: Start riding and racing as soon as possible. Racing helps you handle the sport's difficulties and teaches you resilience. Don’t quit when it gets tough; the hard times make you stronger and more skilled.

GQ: What are your goals for the future?

KL: I aim to continue competing in Dakar and other rallies as long as possible. Eventually, I’d like to transition to car racing, which offers more longevity. Beyond racing, I want to grow my business, start a family, and live happily with my wife and dogs.

GQ: Who are your role models or mentors in the sport?

KL: Laia Sanz, a Spanish motorsport legend, has been a significant influence. My biggest inspiration, though, was my mother. She always supported me and taught me to work hard and never give up, regardless of the challenges.

Saving Animals Movement

Beyond the bike, animals are Kirsten Landman’s heart. Her love for them runs just as deep as her love for racing. Her best friend is Sammy, a seven-year-old Terrier mix rescued from an informal settlement in Diepsloot and later brought to F.O.R.A. Kirsten was fortunate enough to adopt him, and he’s been a constant source of joy and comfort in her life ever since.

Because her sport takes her through remote and rural areas across South Africa, she’s seen firsthand how many animals—especially dogs and cats—are struggling. Malnourished, overbred, and often neglected, many are in desperate need of help. That reality led Kirsten to found the Saving Animals Movement, or S.A.M.

S.A.M. is her way of giving back—of offering these animals a better shot at life. The initiative focuses on education, awareness, and practical support: helping families learn how to care for their pets, reducing overbreeding through sterilisation drives, and supporting shelters that are often overwhelmed and under-resourced.

Using her platform and reach as a professional athlete, Kirsten drives fundraising efforts, food and blanket collections, and collaborates with NPOs to cover vet bills and distribute aid where it’s needed most. Whether she’s racing, participating in community rides, or speaking at events, she works with organisers to gather supplies and direct them to local shelters. For Kirsten, making even a small difference off the track is just as meaningful as any podium finish.

Find out more about Kirsten's career and cause at kirstenlandman.com