| Series Finale at the All New Thunderdome |
| HAZARD, KENTUCKY (June 2026) – Ultra4 Racing and Hammerking Productions are proud to announce the launch of a brand-new Ultra4 Race in Hazard, Kentucky – the first chapter in a long-term expansion plan that will establish Eastern Kentucky as a top-tier destination for off-road motorsports. The inaugural event, scheduled for October 14-18, 2026, will serve as the championship finale for the 2026 Ultra4 USA Championship Series and marks the beginning of a multi-year partnership with Backroads of Appalachia, Perry County and Leatherwood Off-Road Park. The race is expected to draw thousands of fans, drivers, teams, and industry partners to Eastern Kentucky for what is shaping up to be one of the most exciting new additions to the national off-road racing calendar. The center of the event is the purpose-built “Thunderdome” racecourse constructed within a dramatic natural amphitheater along Kentucky 80 heading toward Knott County. The unique terrain will allow fans to view the entire course from multiple vantage points – a rare experience in off-road racing – while racers battle through high-speed sections, technical rock features, elevation changes, and nonstop action throughout the weekend. As the season-ending championship round, the Hazard event is expected to become one of the most intense and important races on the Ultra4 calendar, with national championships potentially decided in front of thousands of spectators in the hills of Appalachia. Over time, the event will expand to further integrate the surrounding terrain and trail systems at Leatherwood Off-Road Park, creating a large-scale off-road destination experience that blends elite competition with camping, trail riding, live entertainment, adventure tourism, and industry activations. Dave Cole, the founder of Ultra4 and Hammerking Productions, emphasized the unique nature of the partnership and the region itself. “What the County is doing as far as access to land, both private and through the trail system and the way the community welcomes it is uncommon. That combination is incredibly rare and gives us an opportunity to build something special here for racers, fans, and the entire region.” Cole also noted that the Eastern United States already has a deep and passionate Ultra4 racing community eager for a premier event closer to home. “We have a significant number of racers from the area,” said Cole. “Probably 70 or 80 racers that compete in our national series are all within six hours of here, so I know they’re super excited about being out here.” “This is far bigger than just adding another race to the schedule,” said Mike Jams, CEO of Hammerking Productions. “We’re building a long-term home for Ultra4 Racing on the East Coast. Kentucky offers incredible terrain, passionate communities, and a unique opportunity to create a destination event unlike anything else in off-road racing.” The event is expected to attract some 5,000 visitors during the inaugural year alone, with substantial economic impact expected throughout Perry County and neighboring communities. Local leaders say the event represents a major step in Eastern Kentucky’s broader effort to diversify its economy through tourism, outdoor recreation, and destination-based events. Brandon Smith, Senator for Kentucky’s 30th District, called the event a transformational opportunity for the region. “Utilizing the natural landscape we already have and investing in the infrastructure and community resources to keep people coming back again and again is a huge win for our region! I applaud the smooth teamwork by all parties involved and look forward to watching this annual event grow!” The event also coincides with the establishment of Ultra4 USA’s new East Coast headquarters in Booneville, Kentucky, reinforcing Hammerking’s long-term commitment to the region. The facility will support event operations, logistics, media production, regional partnerships, and future race development throughout Appalachia and the Eastern United States. Preparations are already underway to ensure the region is ready to welcome racers, fans, teams, sponsors, and visitors from across North America. Additional announcements regarding hospitality, entertainment, and corporate partners will be released in the coming months. |