The off-road racing powerhouse behind King of the Hammers is investing in Appalachia with a new development center, youth training program, and major race event that promises to boost the local economy while creating new opportunities for racers and enthusiasts.
Ultra4 Racing, a global leader in off-road motorsport events, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Backroads of Appalachia and the State of Kentucky.
The collaboration aims to expand the national footprint of Ultra4 by offering new development and training opportunities for teams and aspiring racers, while stimulating economic development and tourism in the Appalachian region.
The partnership marks the creation of the East Coast headquarters for Ultra4 Racing at a newly constructed 200-acre test and development facility in Booneville, Kentucky, featuring a dedicated 1.4-mile off-road test track and a 60,000 sq/ft building with garage and office space.
The facility will offer Ultra4 teams and OEMs an unparalleled test and development arena in a safe and secure environment. Construction is underway, with the facility expected to open in mid-2026.
The facility will also serve as the East Coast base for the youth-focused Ultra4Next Training & Workforce Development Center. This initiative aligns with Backroads of Appalachia’s mission to offer technical and trade skill development within the motorsports industry, providing Appalachian youth access to hands-on experience and career pathways into motorsports.
Additionally, Ultra4 is pleased to announce a multi-year agreement to host a world-class Ultra4 Series race at Kentucky’s Leatherwood Off-Road Park. The first event, slated for Fall of 2026, will showcase the intensity and excitement of Ultra4, while further solidifying Kentucky’s position as a premier off-road destination.
Thanks to Kentucky’s SB-63 legislation, tagged side-by-sides and off-road trucks will be permitted to legally transit and operate on public roads, allowing teams to set up operations directly in nearby towns and opening the door to greater community integration during events.
“We’re tremendously excited to broaden our national footprint, and thankful for the opportunity,” said Dave Cole, founder of Ultra4 and the King of the Hammers. “It is a big step forward for Ultra4 as we expand our reach and create new opportunities for racers, students and fans to be part of the action.”
The launch of Ultra4’s East Coast headquarters and the test track in Booneville will not only offer a new development and training ground to racers and enthusiasts, but also aims to stimulate economic growth in the region by attracting new businesses, driving tourism and creating jobs. Next year’s Ultra4 Series race is a key part of that vision, bringing together the best in motorsports and the incredible natural beauty of the Appalachian region.
The project is funded by a $7.4-million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission, and is part of the Appalachian Overland Triangle initiative, which seeks to rebuild rural economies through motorsports and outdoor tourism.
The grant was spearheaded by Backroads CEO Erik Hubbard, with the effort and support of many, including Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers, Kentucky Representative Chris Fugate and Owsley County Judge/Executive Zeke Little Jr.
About Ultra4:
Ultra4 is a premier off-road racing series, known for its unique combination of rock crawling, high-speed desert racing, and endurance. The series includes events across North America, anchored by the legendary King of the Hammers race in Johnson Valley, California (www.kingofthehammers.com). “KOH” is an annual two-week long festival of speed featuring multiple grassroots to professional 4-wheel and moto classes, culminating with the ultra extreme Race of Kings. It’s the biggest and best attended off-road race in the country, attracting 80,000+ spectators and followed by millions of fans worldwide, and one of the toughest and most prestigious races in the world. Ultra4Next is the development and education arm of Ultra4, and is committed to fostering the next generation of racers, mechanics and engineers.
About Backroads of Appalachia:
Backroads of Appalachia (www.backroadsofappalachia.org) is a non-profit focused on promoting tourism and economic development in the Appalachian region, particularly through motorsports and outdoor recreation. With its expansive land offerings and commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Kentucky, Backroads of Appalachia provides a gateway to motorsport innovation and community development.
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