A first-of-its-kind exhibit, “People’s Champ: The Impact of Ken Block” celebrating the late co-founder of DC Shoes’ legacy in motorsports, will make its debut at the Petersen Automotive Museum this month.
Block, who passed away in 2023 in a snowmobile accident, was a serial entrepreneur, co-founding brands such as Eightball, Droors Clothing, Dub Outerwear, Blunt Snowboard Magazine, and most notably DC Shoes in 1994 alongside Damon Way. However, he was famously known as a pro rally driver who rose to internet fame with his “Gymkhana” stunt videos.
After selling his stake in DC Shoes in 2004, he took up rally driving relatively late in life, in his mid-30s, but immediately made his mark on the sport, finishing fourth overall in the 2005 Rally America National Championship and earning the organization’s Rookie of the Year. He went on to become a five-time X Games medalist in Rally and RallyCross, as well as the first American to drive in the World Rally Championship.
Worldwide fame arrived via his Gymkhana YouTube series, which has attracted nearly 1 billion views across 16 videos on YouTube alone. Acclaimed for its expert execution and beautiful filming, the series set a new standard for content across extreme sports while inspiring a generation of automotive enthusiasts with his innovative vehicles and stunts. In 2011, Block founded Hoonigan, an automotive lifestyle brand and production company.
“People’s Champ” to Showcase Block’s Famous Cars
Sponsored by 43 Institute, Block’s foundation, the “People’s Champ” exhibit will feature the vehicles starring in the viral “Gymkhana” films; Block’s personal vehicles and cars campaigned during his rally career; racing suits, helmets, wheels, DC Shoes, and Hoonigan merchandise from key moments in Block’s career; as well as extensive multimedia displays and never-before-seen photos and memorabilia from Block’s collection.
Highlighted vehicles include:
- 1965 Ford Mustang RTR “Hoonicorn” – Featured in “Gymkhana SEVEN,” “Gymkhana TEN” and “Climbkhana”
- 2022 Porsche 911 SVRSR “Hoonipigasus” – A 1,400-horsepower Porsche built for the 2022 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
- 2005 Subaru IMPREZA WRX STI – Featured in “Gymkhana: Practice (or Gymkhana ONE)”
- 2008 Subaru IMPREZA WRX STI – Featured in “Gymkhana TWO”
- 1994 Ford Escort RS Cosworth WRC “Cossie V2” – A classic rally racer updated to modern World Rally Championship specifications
- 1978 Ford Escort – Block’s first Ford rally car, later converted for “Gymkhana GRID” competition
“Ken Block transformed motorsports content and captivated audiences with his high-performance cars and fearless driving, leaving a lasting impact on the automotive industry and pop culture,” said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum, in a statement. “This exhibit is a tribute to his legacy, and we are honored to share it with the public.”
The exhibit opens on Feb. 15 in the museum’s Meyer Gallery and will be displayed until October 2025.
Preview Night to Raise Funds for 43 Institute
The preview night, Feb. 13, is a fundraiser for 43 Institute, which supports individuals within the action sports, motorsports, and creative arts through mentorship and access to training. The “43” honors Block’s retired racing number.
Looking ahead, the Petersen Automotive Museum will team up with 43 Institute to celebrate the second-annual National Ken Block Day on April 3 with a major cruise-in event on Saturday, April 5, and events throughout the week. More information will be shared as 4/3 Day approaches.
“This exhibit is such a meaningful way to celebrate Ken’s legacy and I can’t think of a better place than the Petersen to bring it to life. It’s not just about the cars, it’s about Ken’s lasting impact and the inspiration he brought to motorsports and car culture,” said Lucy Block, 43 Institute president and Block’s wife. “Through 43 Institute, we’re committed to carrying forward the opportunities that fueled his passion and creativity, and we’re thrilled to collaborate with the Petersen to continue that work.”
Editor’s note: You can donate to 43 Institute here.
