Feb 09, 2025

King of the Hammers 2025: A Historic Year for Off-Road Racing & Women in Motorsports

Every year, thousands of off-road enthusiasts flock to the rugged terrain of Johnson Valley, California, for one of the most grueling and prestigious events in motorsports: King of the Hammers (KOH). This year’s event, held from January 31 to February 8, 2025, was nothing short of legendary. With intense races, history-making moments, and an electric atmosphere, KOH 2025 proved once again why it’s known as the toughest one-day off-road race in the world.

What is King of the Hammers?

King of the Hammers is an annual off-road racing event that combines high-speed desert racing with extreme rock crawling. Taking place in Johnson Valley, California, KOH has grown into a multi-day spectacle featuring various classes of vehicles, from stock 4x4s to custom-built Ultra4 cars. The event transforms the barren desert into Hammertown, a massive temporary city filled with vendors, racers, fans, and media. And of course, Go Fast Girls was there, supporting women in motorsports and bringing the best gear for adrenaline-fueled adventure.

The Races: A True Test of Endurance

KOH 2025 featured a range of exciting races, each testing the skill and endurance of drivers and their machines. Some of the most anticipated races included:

Class 11 Race – The fan-favorite vintage VW Bug battle, where off-road legends and grassroots racers alike tackle the brutal desert terrain. This year, Blake "Shreddy" Wilkey dominated the field, securing a well-earned victory.
Every Man Challenge (EMC) – Designed for racers without full Ultra4 budgets, this event features various stock and modified classes. Amber Slawson made history during the second weekend, physically crossing the finish line first. While she ultimately placed second due to corrected time, her performance was a huge win for women in motorsports, proving that female racers are a force to be reckoned with. And what better way to celebrate her success than by rocking Go Fast Girls apparel, designed for fierce and fearless competitors?
Desert Challenge – A brutal test of speed and durability through the harsh desert. We had the chance to catch up with Kristen Matlock (#1854) before her race, where she put on an incredible performance, finishing 7th against a stacked field. She embodies everything that Go Fast Girls stands for: passion, perseverance, and power.
4400 Kings Race – The grand finale and the ultimate test of man and machine. This is where legends are made, and 2025 delivered an unforgettable moment. For the first time in KOH history, Kyle Chaney (#191) in a UTV claimed victory, dethroning defending champion JP Gomez. Alongside his co-driver Terry Madden, Chaney shattered expectations, proving that UTVs have what it takes to compete against the best Ultra4 rigs in the world.

Legends and Fan-Favorites Hit the Course

This year’s KOH was packed with big names, including off-road icons such as:

Adam Householder
Brian Deegan
Nick & Chris Isenhouer
Dustin Jones
Cameron Steele
Jermey McGrath

Each of these racers brought their A-game, making for an action-packed week of competition.

More Than Just Racing: The KOH Experience

KOH is more than just a race; it's an off-road festival unlike any other. Spectators had plenty to do beyond watching the action on course. Hammertown was packed with vendors, offering everything from off-road gear to custom vehicle parts—including Go Fast Girls merch, giving fans the chance to gear up like the pros.

Fans could also test their own driving skills or witness epic nighttime action at legendary spectator spots like Chocolate Thunder, Backdoor, and Turkey Claw. The energy was electric, and Go Fast Girls was there every step of the way, supporting the fearless women who take on the toughest terrains.

A Record-Breaking Event

With tens of thousands of spectators converging on the lakebed, KOH 2025 was one of the biggest in history. From the roaring engines to the high-energy atmosphere, this year’s event cemented its legacy as a must-attend spectacle for any off-road enthusiast.

KOH 2025 delivered thrilling moments, shattered records, and pushed the limits of off-road racing. With racers like Amber Slawson paving the way for women in motorsports and Kyle Chaney making UTV history, the future of King of the Hammers is brighter (and wilder) than ever. Until next year, we’ll be dreaming of the dust, the adrenaline, and the glory that only KOH can deliver. And don’t forget—whether you’re in the driver’s seat or cheering from the sidelines, Go Fast Girls has the gear to keep you looking fast and feeling unstoppable!