Hoonigan Founder, Pro Rally Driver and Drift Guru Ken Block Killed in Snowmobile Accident
Driving icon Ken Block collaborated with Ford for 11 years making astonishing gymkhana videos. He passed away at age 55.
This is a lousy way to start 2023. Hoonigan confirmed on Monday, January 2 that Ken Block was killed in a snowmobile accident. He was 55 years old. Block had a long-term relationship with Ford, but he was much bigger than that. He was co-founder of DC Shoes. In 2004 he sold the company for over $80 million. The next year he began his rallying career with the Vermont SportsCar team. He went one to amass 16 wins in the Rally America series. He won multiple X Games medals. Perhaps his biggest claim to fame are his viral Gymkhana videos. The video series have totaled over a BILLION views. Many of these videos featured Ford products. He drove everything from Mustangs to trucks in his thrilling series of videos.
The Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office in Utah confirmed Block’s death in a statement published on Facebook. “Kenneth Block, 55-year-old male out of Park City, Utah, was riding a snowmobile on a steep slope when the snowmobile upended, landing on top of him. He was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident. Mr. Block was riding with a group but was alone when the accident occurred.” Police said. “It’s with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today,” a statement from Hoonigan says. “Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. And most importantly, a father and a husband.”
Hoonigan
In 2010 Block formed the Monster World Rally Team. He then signed with Ford to pursue his dream of racing in the World Rally Championship. Only four Americans have ever scored points in the WRC. Block is one of them. In 2012 Block re-named his team Hoonigan Racing Division. A global motorsport brand was born. Videos, merchandise, racing at Pikes Peak, Block had it all going on. It seemed like there was nothing that he couldn’t do. His dare devil driving was incredible but so was his spirit and determination. Many folks after selling a company for tens of millions of dollars would sit back and slow down a bit. Block went the opposite direction. Pushing the limits further and further. He epitomized the saying ‘Full Send.’
Ken Block
I did not know Block. However, I did just meet him a couple months ago at SEMA 2022. He was there greeting fans (of which there were many) and signing autographs. Despite all his success and fame, he seemed like just a good dude who absolutely loved what he was doing. I don’t think I ever saw him stop smiling the entire time he was there. Surely this man inspired many men and women to follow their dreams. Most likely in motorsport, but really in any aspect of life. It is beyond sad to know that his bright light has been extinguished.
Rest in Peace
Block leaves behind a legacy. His videos will live on for all of us and future generations to enjoy. Hopefully Hoonigan will continue to do what they do best. Of course, it will never be the same. Block is survived by his wife, Lucy, and three children. We are keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Images: Ford; Joe Kucinski
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