Mexico has a unique place in annals Motorsports, with Formula 1, WRC, Road Racing, Off Road Racing, and even NASCAR all a part of the rich history of Mexican Motorsports. But today there are two forms of motorsport that are most associated with Mexico, Baja Off-Road Racing and Open Road Racing, what sets these events apart are that these races are held across public lands and roads, and just about anyone with a properly prepared car and show up and take part in these events.
If you want to get behind the wheel of adventure, you need to plan a trip South of the Border, here are four ways you can race in Mexico.
Rally Historico Transpeninsular
Cost: $2,000-$5,000
Race License Required: YES/NO
Arrive and Drive: YES (For Touring Class)
Time of Year: June
Inspired by the original Carrera Panamericana took place between 1950-1954, the Rally Historico Transpeninsular, launched in 2015, is a three-day, 1,000-mile road race across Baja California open to nearly any car or motorcycle. It is an exciting and challenging event that I will never forget. While this is a serious road race drawing competitors from around the world, the organizers have recently added a Touring Class. In the Touring Class drivers can follow along with the route, not racing, but enjoying the same great roads while catching up with the racers each night at dinner. For those who want to make it even easier in 2018 the addition of the "Arrive and Drive" touring package allows you to join the Touring Class in a BMW or Mercedes, then simply fly home from Cabo San Lucas. All packages include accommodations and most meals, visit rhtranspen.com for more.
The Chihuahua Express
Cost: $3,500-$4,000
Race License Required: YES/NO
Arrive and Drive: NO
Time of Year: April
The Chihuahua Express is a three-day, 1,000-mile, road race that was founded in 2007. The event is open to any classic or modern car and takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of Mexico, including Copper Canyon. Drivers have issued Mexican Rally licenses as part of the entry fee, however, it is expected that you have a competition license from your home country or at least significant racing experience. A Time-To-Distance Rally is also run which only requires a co-driver and helmets. All packages include accommodations and most meals, visit chihuahuaexpress.com for more.
San Pedro Mártir Hill Climb
Cost: $425-$850
Race License Required: NO
Arrive and Drive: NO
Time of Year: September
The San Pedro Mártir Hill Climb is a unique event, allowing nearly any motorcycle or car owner to push themselves to the limit against a 30km course that climbs to 9,000 feet. FIA Safety equipment is required and this is not for the faint of heart. The event has attracted amateur racers from across North America and even professional racers like Rhys Millen have taken part in the race. Basic packages include a spot to camp, but you can always upgrade your package to include a hotel room.
Visit sanpedrohillclimb.com for more info.
Wide Open Baja / Baja 500/1000
Cost: $1,000-$100,000
Race License Required: NO
Arrive and Drive: YES
Time of Year: Throughout
If you haven't seen my story on racing across Baja in a Baja Challenge car you should check it out HERE. But if off-road racing has ever been on your radar Wide Open Baja is something you need to check out. From basic half-day to four-day Baja adventures, to full blow race support for the actual Baja 1,000 the team at Wide Open Baja can put you behind the wheel and make your desert racer dreams come true. For more visit wideopenbaja.com
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