SoCal X Motorsports

King of the Hammers Rookie Program

Show up prepared. Race with confidence.

The official preparation program for first-time Drivers of Record competing at King of the Hammers 2027.

Six months of guidance, hands-on training, and veteran mentorship designed to help you arrive on the lakebed prepared, confident, and ready to race.

  • Expert Guidance
  • Veteran Mentorship
  • Rookie Week
  • Race Week Support
Apply now
Rookie racers taking in the sunset from a desert peak, rigs lined up along the ridge

Your Rookie Journey

Virtual Training
Monthly Zoom sessions covering race preparation, vehicle readiness, logistics, race strategy, and what to expect before arriving at King of the Hammers.
Rookie Week
Spend a week in Johnson Valley learning from experienced racers through trail rides, discussions, and hands-on preparation before race week.
Veteran Mentorship
When available, you'll be paired with experienced King of the Hammers racers who can answer questions and help guide you throughout the program.
Resources
Receive planning guides, preparation checklists, timelines, and other helpful tools to keep your race preparation on track.
Partner Benefits
Access to partner discounts, product education, and support from companies that help make King of the Hammers possible.
Led by Veterans
The Rookie Program is led by team owners, past Kings, and long-time partners of the sport who are sharing the tips, tricks, and lessons that took them years and hundreds of thousands of dollars to learn.

Program Timeline

  1. August 24

    Program Kickoff

    Welcome to the Rookie Program and an overview of what to expect.

  2. September 14

    Racing 101

    Preparing yourself and your vehicle for KOH.

  3. October 3

    Off-Road Expo Rookie Meetup

    Meet fellow rookies, mentors, and program partners.

  4. October 5

    Rookie Week Prep Call

    Everything you need before arriving in Johnson Valley.

  5. October 26–30

    Rookie Week

    Five days of preparation, training, and mentorship in Johnson Valley.

  6. November 23

    Mid-Program Check-In

    Questions, progress updates, and continued preparation.

  7. December 11

    PRI Rookie Meetup

    Meet with fellow participants and industry partners.

  8. December 14

    Post-PRI Check-In

    Review what was learned and prepare for the final stretch.

  9. January 4

    KOH Readiness Checklist

    Final preparation before race month.

  10. January 18

    Final Lakebed Prep Call

    Last-minute questions and race-week planning.

  11. January 29

    Lakebed Rookie Meetup

    Meet the group before race week begins.

Program schedule is subject to change.

Rookie Week in photos

Scenes from the lakebed and the trail.

A formation of off-road rigs racing across the dry lakebed, kicking up dust
Rookie Week at King of the Hammers — drivers and crews trailside
Rookie Week at King of the Hammers — a rig on course
Rookie Week at King of the Hammers — the paddock and pit area
Off-road rigs fanned out across the open desert lakebed
Rookie Week at King of the Hammers — drivers gathered at camp
Rookie Week at King of the Hammers — a rig navigating the terrain

Watch the program

Get a feel for Rookie Week and what the King of the Hammers Rookie Program is all about.

Good Fit If You…

  • You're a first-time King of the Hammers Driver of Record.
  • You're committed to preparing before race week.
  • You have a running off-road vehicle.
  • You can participate in Rookie Week.
  • You're ready to learn, ask questions, and put in the work.

Program Expectations

To participate in the Rookie Program, you must:

  • Be entered as a Driver of Record for King of the Hammers 2027.
  • Bring a working off-road vehicle to Rookie Week.
  • Arrange your own travel and lodging for program events.
  • Display required Rookie Program partner decals on your race vehicle or pay the $2,500 program fee.
  • Complete a short feedback survey following the program.
A racecar is strongly recommended for Rookie Week, but a capable prerunner or UTV is acceptable.
El Monte RV Need an RV? SoCal X can help connect participants with El Monte RV rental options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apply

Two quick steps: your details, then review & agree.

Your details

Questions?

Not sure if the Rookie Program is right for you, or have a question the FAQ didn't answer? Reach out — we're happy to help.

Martin

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