It took me a while to write this article, as the subject is one that is near and dear to me. As he played a big part in my love and passion for the automotive world as a whole.
Ken Block is a professional rally driver, entrepreneur, and internet personality known for his high-speed driving skills, signature style, and innovative marketing techniques. Born on November 21, 1967, in Long Beach, California, Block developed a passion for motorsports at a young age.
In the early 2000s, Block began competing in various rally events, eventually co-founding the Hoonigan Racing Division team with his friend and business partner Brian Scotto. Block quickly gained a reputation for his aggressive driving style and his ability to drift and slide his car through tight corners and narrow roads.
In 2006, Block gained worldwide recognition with the release of his first "Gymkhana" video, a high-energy, high-speed driving showcase set to music. The video quickly went viral, showcasing Block's unique driving skills and setting the stage for a series of increasingly elaborate and ambitious Gymkhana videos.
In addition to his success as a rally driver and viral video star, Block has also been involved in a number of successful business ventures. In 2004, he co-founded DC Shoes, a skateboarding and lifestyle brand that quickly grew into a major player in the action sports industry. In 2010, he founded Hoonigan Industries, a lifestyle brand that specializes in automotive-themed clothing, accessories, and videos.
Throughout his career, Block has won numerous accolades and awards, including the 2008 Rally America National Championship and multiple X Games medals. He has also been featured in a number of popular television shows and documentaries, including Top Gear and The Grand Tour.
Today, Ken Block is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative figures in the world of motorsports and marketing. His unique combination of driving skills, business savvy, and viral marketing techniques have helped to bring rally racing and action sports to a wider audience, inspiring a new generation of drivers and enthusiasts.
Sadly with his passing in January of 2023 he will rest in our memories.
That leaves it up to us to help continue his legacy by passing his mindset down to future generations and showing his videos to them as well.
He will forever live in our hearts as the king of Hoon, and an all around great guy.
Having had the pleasure of meeting him at the 2022 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, I can genuinely say that he was more then just a driver but also a down right great guy. He not only brought maximum stoke to whatever event he attended, but also a down to earth and inviting stature that would bring such an infectious joy wherever he went. Rest in Peace Ken, I hope your drifting through the clouds!
Commenti