King of the Hammers Rookie Program

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OVERVIEW

The KOH Rookie Program aims to provide a comprehensive and supportive environment for new racers, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident to compete in the 2025 King of the Hammers.

The program will include a blend of training, mentorship and community building, all designed to nurture talent and foster long-term participation in off-road racing.

 

What is a Rookie?

First-time KOH racers are eligible for the Rookie Program. You are not required to have any previous race experience to join the program. If you have been the driver of record at an Ultra4 USA or Ultra4 Europe race, you are still eligible for the Rookie Program. If you have been the driver of record at any King of the Hammers competition, you are not eligible.

 

Why Join The KOH Rookie Program?

  • Build a Supportive Community:
    • Connect with Peers and Veterans: The program begins with a Welcome Zoom Call on August 19th, introducing rookies to the program structure, expectations and key personnel. By August 26th, rookies will be paired with experienced racers in their area, facilitating mentorship and creating a network of support.
    • Engage with the Community: Participate in the Offroad Expo (September 28th-29th) and the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show (December 12th-14th) to network with industry stakeholders and integrate into the off-road racing community. We’ll coach you on how to sell your program to industry partners in an impactful way, opening the door to potential future partnerships.
  • Gain a Competitive Edge:
    • Race Prep: Ability to attend one of three Tech Clinics on September 7th, 14th, and 21st at reputable shops like Bomber, Miller, and Tribe 16 (these will be finalized once we know the location of the participants). These hands-on workshops will provide professional guidance to ensure that your vehicle is race-ready.
    • Learn to Race: Learn from veteran racers the lessons that have taken decades to learn. This will give you the necessary tools to not only make it to the lakebed, but also be competitive from the green flag during King of the Hammers.
  • Comprehensive Preparation:
    • Participate in five additional Zoom calls aimed to prepare you for scheduled program activities and events:
      • Tech Clinics
      • Offroad Expo
      • PRI
      • Hammers Weekend
      • Final check-in before the Lakebed
    • Hammers Weekend: Attend our Rookie training weekend at Cole Ranch in Johnson Valley October 24th-27th. You’ll receive one-on-one and group training on all aspects of what it takes to conquer this race. We will bring out Kings and Veterans to talk you through the event and show you the ropes on how to race the Johnson Valley terrain. You will have the opportunity to drive alongside them through previous year's race courses and hear what they look for on the trail, learn essential skills to navigate the trail, and learn the key features of the racecourse. This event will be hands-on in your race vehicle. SO MAKE SURE YOU AND YOUR CAR ARE READY FOR THIS EVENT!

 

Schedule

  • Welcome Zoom Call: August 19th
  • Connecting Rookies with Veteran Racers: August 26th
  • Three Safety Events Around the Country: September 7th/14th/ 21st.
  • Zoom Call for Marketing at Events: Week Before Both Events For Confirmed Participants
  • Offroad Expo: September 28th-29th
  • Zoom Call Preparing for Hammers Weekend: October 11th
  • Hammers Weekend: October 24rd-27th
  • Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show: December 12th-14th
  • End of December Catch-up and Final Check-in: December 27th

 

Cost To Join The KOH Rookie Program?

There are two ways to join the Rookie Program:

  • $2,500 tuition to join the program
    • Travel and Accommodations for events are not included, but meals are included for the Hammers Weekend.

OR

  • Commit to the Ultra4 USA Series by racing two regional races and Nationals
    • If you choose this option, but don’t participate in the series, you’ll be back charged for the program tuition.

 

Click Here to Sign Up!

(Capacity is limited, so don’t miss your chance)

If there are any questions please reach out to Bailey@KingOfTheHammers.com, Mikej@KingOfTheHammers.com