Breaking the Lap: Alejandra Salas on Motorsport, Resilience, and Representation

On December 1st, Alejandra Salas made history at Las 3 Horas de Costa Rica, becoming the first woman to compete as a driver in over three decades of the event's existence. It was a milestone not only for her but for the entire motorsport community in Costa Rica. Behind the wheel of a Porsche 911 TG3 RSR alongside Canadian driver Dean Paquette, Alejandra raced with passion and purpose, leaving a lasting mark on the track and in the hearts of many.

A Journey Fuelled by Inspiration

Growing up in Venecia from San Carlos, in the Costa Rica province of Alajuela, Alejandra's fascination with motorsport began at a young age. 

"My dad started getting involved in racing about 10 years ago," she tells Females in Motorsport. "That’s when I started going to the track, and the spark was lit." 

By 2021, she was competing in karting, securing podium finishes, and steadily building her reputation. In January 2024, she made her debut in the National Championship of Automobilism, where she impressed both fans and fellow competitors.

Her dedication and resilience led to an invitation from ACR Motor Wrecks to participate in Las 3 Horas de Costa Rica.

"Being the first woman in this competition is a step towards greater inclusion in motorsport,” she says. “I feel incredibly fortunate to represent women and to be part of this change."

Copyright Alejandra Salas  Images.

Overcoming Challenges with Determination

Breaking into a male-dominated sport was no small feat. While Alejandra expressed gratitude for the respect and support she received from her fellow racers, she admitted that external opinions posed the greatest challenge. 

"Dealing with the comments from outsiders—proving that women are made for great things—has been the hardest part," she said.

Despite these challenges, Alejandra developed strategies to stay grounded. "Before every race, I try to keep myself calm by doing things like going out with friends," she explained. "Once I’m in the car, I sing to myself to relax and remind my mind that we’re doing what we love."

Preparing for Greatness 

When Alejandra received the invitation to race just a week before the event, she sprang into action. Her daily schedule became a rigorous balance of physical training, technical preparation, and mental focus. 

"I’d wake up at 5 a.m. to train at the gym, then head to the track from 9am until late afternoon to get familiar with the car," she recounts. 

This dedication paid off, helping her secure a strong performance in the race.

Balancing Life and Racing

In addition to her racing career, Alejandra is a full-time student studying Industrial Maintenance Engineering at the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC). Managing her education and racing commitments has required sacrifices. 

"I’ve had to ask for permission to attend training sessions and races, which has affected my social and family time," she says. "I know what I want. I write down my dreams and goals to remind myself why I’m pursuing them."

A Vision for the Future

Alejandra’s success is a beacon of hope for many aspiring women racers. 

"Being the first woman until now only shows how difficult it’s been to get here and how much work still lies ahead," she says. "I hope more women are inspired by my participation and dare to follow their dreams."

She credits her family and support system for her achievements, especially her parents. 

"My dad, as a fellow racer, has taught me so much,” she says. “And my mum’s courage and determination are unmatched. Without their support—and that of my siblings, friends, and team—I wouldn’t be where I am today."

Advice for Aspiring Women in Motorsport

To young women dreaming of a future in motorsport, Alejandra offers powerful advice: "Believe in yourself. Just because it’s a male-dominated sport doesn’t mean there’s no room for you. Confidence and determination are essential. Surround yourself with supportive people, ignore the negative comments, and never fear challenges. Prepare yourself physically and mentally—no one else will do it for you."

Looking Ahead

Alejandra’s long-term goal is to represent Costa Rica in renowned national and international races. She also envisions a future where women have more opportunities and visibility in motorsport. 

"There’s been progress, but there’s still more to do," she says. "I hope that as visibility and support from sponsors increase, more women will find their place in this sport." 

Alejandra Salas’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and perseverance. As she continues to push boundaries on and off the track, her story will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of women determined to leave their mark on the world of motorsport.

Copyright Alejandra Salas  Images