Baja 500 facts for kids

2008 Baja 500 Contingency

The Baja 500 is a super exciting off-road race held in Mexico. It takes place on the Baja California Peninsula. This race is a big deal in the world of motorsports and is organized by a group called SCORE International.

The race usually starts and finishes in Ensenada. The course is a loop, meaning it circles back to where it began. It's usually a little less than 500 miles long, which is a really long and tough race!

Many different types of vehicles compete in the Baja 500. These include powerful Trophy trucks, speedy Dirtbikes, agile UTVs, classic Baja Bugs, and custom-built buggies.

What Vehicles Race?

The Baja 500 has many different categories, or "classes," for vehicles. This makes sure that similar types of vehicles race against each other. Here are some of the main types you'll see:

Cars and Trucks

• SCORE Trophy Truck: These are super powerful, custom-built trucks. They are designed to go very fast over rough terrain. There's also a special class for drivers who are 50 years or older!
• SCORE Class 1: These are open-wheel buggies. They can have one or two seats and are built for speed and handling off-road.
• SCORE Class 5: These are special "Baja Bugs." They are modified Volkswagen Beetle cars, made tough for off-road racing.
• SCORE Class 7: These are mini trucks, either stock (meaning mostly original) or modified for racing.
• SCORE Class 8: These are full-sized trucks that are two-wheel drive.
• SCORE Class 10: These are open-wheel vehicles, similar to buggies, but with smaller engines.
• SCORE Baja Challenge: In this class, all the vehicles are the same. This makes the race about the drivers' skill, not just the car's power.

Motorcycles

Motorcycles are a huge part of the Baja 500. They are divided into classes based on their engine size and the age of the riders.

• SCORE Class 22: This is for the most powerful motorcycles, with engines 250cc or larger.
• SCORE Class 30: For riders who are over 30 years old.
• SCORE Class 40: For riders who are over 40 years old.
• SCORE Class 50: For riders who are over 50 years old.
• SCORE Class 60: For riders who are over 60 years old.

ATVs

ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) also race in the Baja 500.

• SCORE Class 25: This class is for ATVs with engines 251cc or larger.

Past Winners

Many amazing drivers and riders have won the Baja 500 over the years. Here's a look at some of the overall champions:

See also

In Spanish: Baja 500 para niños

• SCORE International
• Baja 1000
• Baja 400
• San Felipe 250