Motorsports event to bring tourism, economic opportunities to Owsley County

Mattias Ekstrom (SWE) of Team EKS RX Racing performs during the FIA World Rallycross Championship in Holjes, Sweden on July 1. 2018

BOONEVILLE, Ky. – Eastern Kentucky will welcome a new wave of visitors and economic activity this spring as the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), in partnership with Backroads of Appalachia (BOA), launches the SCCA Appalachian Rallycross Series: AOT Rally-X Spring Challenge on April 11, 2026.

The event will take place at the Appalachian Overland Triangle (AOT), located at 2843 Little Sturgeon Creek Road, in Booneville, Kentucky 41314.  Competitors and spectators are expected from across the region and beyond.

Driving Tourism in Rural Appalachia

The RallyCross event is part of a broader effort to position eastern Kentucky as a destination for motorsports and outdoor recreation. With a capped field of 50 drivers, participants will travel into Owsley County for the event, bringing with them spending on fuel, food, lodging, and other local services.

Backroads of Appalachia, a nonprofit organization, founded locally, focused on economic development through motorsports and adventure tourism, continues to expand its footprint in the region through events like this, which are designed to generate repeat visitation and long-term economic growth.

“Events like RallyCross are about more than racing,” said Waterford. “They bring new people into our communities, introduce them to the region, and create opportunities for local businesses to benefit from increased traffic.”

What is Rallycross: Accessible Motorsports for a Broad Audience

RallyCross is one of the most accessible forms of organized motorsports in the country. Competitors race against the clock on a dirt and grass course defined by cones, emphasizing driver’s skill over speed.

Unlike traditional racing formats, participants can compete in everyday vehicles, lowering the barrier to entry and encouraging participation from a wide range of drivers. The event is open to anyone with a valid driver’s license and a vehicle that meets basic safety requirements.

Event Details

Event Name: SCCA Appalachian RallyCross Series: AOT Rally-X SpringChallenge

Date: April 11, 2026

Location: Appalachian Overland Triangle (AOT), located at 2843 Little Sturgeon Creek Road, in Booneville, Kentucky 41314

Registration Fees:

$35 for SCCA Annual Members

$60 for Weekend Members

Entry Cap: 50 Drivers

Camping: Primitive camping available onsite

Link to Registration HERE.