Competition Corner: Goodguys & Wicked Rides, Ultra 4 KMC Battle in BlueGrass, SPOCOM, and More

It’s time for Competition Corner, and you bet your bottom dollar this July is going to be jam-packed with all sorts of ‘Murican-flavored goodies. Besides, who needs fireworks when you can check out Goodguys Heartland Nats, SPOCOM, Ultra 4 KMC Battle in BlueGrass, and some of the final off-road showdowns of the season?!

Goodguys 28th Speedway Motors Heartland Nationals

Goodguys events are always worth checking out, but the Heartland Nationals might be the can’t-miss of the season. With over 4,000 hot rods, customs, classics, muscle cars, and trucks through 1987 and tons of vendor and manufacturer exhibits, you’re already in for a great time. Then you throw in a swap meet, burnout competition, autocross event, live music, AND a “Fireworks Extravaganza”… Well, whoever isn’t sold clearly has no pulse. So, if you’re alive July 5-7, get on over to the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines. Click here for ticket info.

Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series – 13th Annual Diamond Nationals

There are a lot of heart-pounding races to attend every season, but if you want to see some of the most aggressive drivers—you need to check out any form of dirt track racing. The 13th Annual Diamond Nationals are the final race in the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series, held at the Lucas Oil Speedway. This is the last time many of these racers will be on the track for the season, and they’re competing for a $15,000 grand prize. It’s going to get absolutely insane. So much so, that you simply can’t miss it. Running July 13-14, click here for more information.

Ouray FJ Summit

Despite being discontinued, the torch still burns strong for the FJ Cruiser among off-road enthusiasts. Part SUV, part Jeep-ish, but all Toyota, these trucks are strange, eye-catching, and too-often underrated. So, if you love your FJ and want to meet other people who love their FJs, all while soaking up the fresh air and jaw-dropping mountains of Ouray, Colorado, the FJ Summit is probably for you. Clear your calendar July 17-21 and head to the state with epic views and legal weed.

Ultra4 KMC Battle in BlueGrass

Ultra4: learn it, love it, live it. Ultra4 is a staple event in our Competition Corners and always worth mentioning. Those who are already familiar with this epic off-roading are probably ready to bop me one for beating this drum over and over, but Ultra4 has something for everyone and, thus, will never cease to be worth a nod. Not an off-road guy/gal? That’s alright, the tech that goes into these rigs is mind-blowing and just watching them work is fun. You are an off-road guy/gal? Good, get out there and check out some gnarly, no-holds barred racing in the third event of the Eastern Series. July 19-20 in Bedford, Kentucky at the Dirty Turtle Off Road Park.

SPOCOM Anaheim 2019

Tuner and late-model guys: I’m sorry. I have not shown enough love to you over the past few Competition Corners, but I’m trying to make up for it now with SPOCOM Anaheim. It’s the largest SPOCOM event with nearly 500 “SPOrts COMpact” cars on display. The best part? It’s indoors, in the AC… Yeah, no sunburn or beads of sweat to harm you or your baby. So hit the site, register your car, and prepare for the time of your life. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California on July 20.

Big Sky Overland Rally

Overlanding: it can be just as intimidating as it is tempting to jump into. If you’re interested but overwhelmed by the mods, gear, and off-grid safety, consider checking out the Big Sky Overland Rally. With trained professionals, educated vendors, and travel-savvy enthusiasts, you can learn the essential skills first-hand. Running July 26-28 in beautiful Bozeman, Montana nestled in the Northern Rockies. Find out how to register, here.

Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series – OPTIMA Batteries Silver State Showdown

So you think your truck is bad ass, huh? Well, perhaps. We say head over to the Silver State Showdown and maybe, just maybe you’ll learn a thing or two… These are track-oriented trucks, so we’re not going apples-for-apples, but you still need to witness one of the final races of the off-road season. Nine classes are running, including Pro Trucks, UTVs, and ATVs, so you’ll get to see a little bit of everything, kicking up plenty of dirt on a hot Saturday in Sparks, NV, July 27. We told you there’d be plenty of ‘Murica on this list. Get your tickets here.

24 Hours of LeMons – Pacific NorthWORST Grand Prix

I hate to sound biased here, but guys who only submerge themselves in top-of-the-line vehicles with picture perfect accessories just don’t get it. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with liking nice things and pushing for excellence… But, to me, there’s a lot of fun to be had on the, shall we say, lower brow level?? Now the guys at 24 hours of Lemons— they know how to have fun. 24 hours of endurance racing, $500 hoopties, and endless entertainment. Next up on the roster is the Pacific NorthWORST Grand Prix a The Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton, WA, July 27-28. Find out more here.