Ken block gymkhana biography of martin luther

About the Innovator

Born and raised in California, Ken Block grew up immersed in the state’s skateboarding and snowboarding cultures. An entrepreneur and artist at heart, Block formed his own printing business and sold hand-screened T-shirts to local skate shops. In he partnered with Damon Way, brother of professional skateboarder Danny Way, to launch the athletic apparel brand DC Shoes.

Ten years later, they sold the brand and Block decided to pursue another of his passions: European-style rally racing.

Block proved a natural in rallying.

Ken block gymkhana biography of martin luther Along the way, he was fortunate to be able to also pursue his passion for racing. Get Tickets. The motor sports world will never be the same following the passing of beloved Ken Block. Fun fact: the original Gymkhana used horses back in the 19th century.

He joined the Rally America series in and posted five top-five finishes in his debut season, earning Rookie of the Year honors in the process. Block’s marketing experience from his DC Shoes days proved a valuable asset, allowing him to secure sponsorship deals with automakers, apparel manufacturers, and beverage companies.

It also gave him the insight to recognize a rising new medium.

In November , Block uploaded a four and a half-minute video to YouTube he called Ken Block Gymkhana Practice – “gymkhana” being a 19th-century term for contests of horse-riding skill. Compared to what would come, that first video was short and simple – but it was exciting.

At the wheel of his rally car, Block offered an exhibition of skill without camera tricks or computer graphics. Encouraged by the high view count, Block launched a series of short films, each one with wilder stunts and more lavish production than the last.

Ken block gymkhana biography of martin luther king Co-founding a company with such roots in action sports, and it only makes sense for Ken Block to be intrigued. Images in this review. Amazon Payment Products. With Block's passion for driving in the Gymkhana videos and his venture into motorsports as a whole, he was able to create an entire life for himself the way he wanted.

Block’s Gymkhana videos appealed to everyone and racked up hundreds of millions of views online.

Block continued his rallying career all the while. He formed his own Hoonigan Racing Division team (a play on “hooligan” and “hoon” – a slang term for reckless driving used in Australia and New Zealand) in , and he posted impressive finishes in Rally America and World Rallycross Championship events.

With marketing savvy, a keen understanding of his fanbase, and undeniable talent behind the wheel, Ken Block redefined motorsport and became one of America’s most famous professional drivers.

Why He Innovates

Ken Block began racing later in life than most drivers. But with his age came marketing experience that he put to great use. Block’s creative impulse inspired him to reach new fans in new ways, using the power of viral video to showcase his driving ability while promoting his team and his sponsors.