Action Sports Icon Travis Pastrana to Hand Off His Vermont SportsCar FC1-X at Glen Helen Raceway for Sunday’s Round 7.
Get ready for an electrifying moment this Sunday at Glen Helen Raceway as 17-year-old racing prodigy Lia Block steps into the spotlight, making her debut in the premier class of Nitrocross, Group E. Block’s entry into the top level not only makes her the youngest driver in Group E history but also paves the way for her to become the category’s first female contender.
With excitement bubbling over, Lia Block reflects on her journey leading up to this monumental moment, stating, “From first starting Nitrocross when I was 14 years old to now, three years later, being in the top class is crazy to think about. I’ve always wanted to do the gap jump ever since I started. This feels very much like full circle and I’m so thankful for Travis and the team at Vermont Sportscar to give me this opportunity to race at the top. I can’t wait to give it my all this weekend at Glen Helen!"
Travis Pastrana, who recognizes the significance of Block’s upcoming milestone, comments, “Lia is a natural talent and a quick study. Just as Ken gave me the chance to shine in his gymkhana videos, I am thrilled that our team at Vermont SportsCar can provide Lia with the opportunity to race alongside the world’s finest drivers in the Group E car."
Pastrana adds, “Lia’s potential knows no bounds. Her success isn’t just because of her resources or her father’s legacy. She will excel because she believes in herself with a confidence I’ve never seen before. She has a unique ability to find speed where others can’t. Lia Block is set to make her mark, not as Ken’s daughter, but as a legend in her own right."
For Lia Block, taking the wheel at Vermont SportsCar for the second leg of the Southern California double-header holds deep personal significance. Her late father, Ken Block, started his rallying journey with the same group, making this an emotional and powerful moment for the young driver.
Block’s meteoric rise in the racing world includes a triumphant victory in the American Rally Association series’ Open 2WD category earlier this year. Additionally, she has showcased her skills in Nitrocross’ NEXT category, securing a podium finish in Phoenix just last month.
While gearing up for her upcoming adventure in the F1 Academy open-wheel series with ART Grand Prix under the Williams Racing banner next year, Lia Block’s commitment to Nitrocross and rallying remains unwavering. Despite transitioning to circuit racing after several successful years in karting and open-wheel tests, Block emphasizes that her passion for Nitrocross and rallying still burns bright, leaving the door open for future endeavors in these disciplines.