California 300 Poker Run Draws Off-Road Enthusiasts to Barstow Race Course
Professional off-road racers and off-road enthusiasts alike had a full day of playtime on this year’s California 300 course in Saturday’s third annual California 300 Poker Run. Dozens of off-road cars, trucks, and UTVs took to the 75-mile race course in Barstow for an exciting day of previewing this year’s layout and playing a virtual poker hand for a chance to win exciting prizes.
“Our Poker Run is one of the more fun parts of California 300 pre-race festivities,” said UNLTD Off-Road Racing CEO Matt Martelli. “It’s not only a great opportunity for our racers to get their first look at this year’s course, but also a fun way for fans to see what the racers will face firsthand, with some exciting prizes on offer for everyone who takes part as well. Thanks to all of our amazing UNLTD and California 300 sponsors who donated prizes for the Poker Run players, we can’t wait to hand them all out!”
Each year, the California 300 Poker Run sees its participants collect checkpoint stickers at multiple points along the California 300 race course. Upon returning to the start-finish line at Barstow Main, participants played a virtual poker game to record their hand. Prizes will be given out to those with the best hands in the coming weeks.
As in past years, the Poker Run coincided with the California 300 Desert Cleanup presented by Tread Lightly!, an industry-wide initiative to remove illegally dumped trash from the Stoddard Valley OHV area. This year’s Desert Cleanup allowed the event to surpass 60,000 pounds of trash removal over its three-year history.
Attention now turns to the California 300 itself in two weeks. The race is expected to draw hundreds of competitors and thousands of spectators, alongside numerous high-profile brands. Attendees can anticipate a weekend filled with dynamic off-road racing, camping, and diverse entertainment offerings. This year, the livestream will also include live in-car coverage from multiple vehicles, providing a unique, racer’s-eye view of the competition.
The Off-Road Festival at the Start/Finish Midway will continue to be a hub of activity, featuring racing action and exhibits from leading off-road companies. The Main Stage will highlight race finishers and deliver ongoing updates about the event. Located conveniently near the entrance to the Stoddard Valley OHV area, just off the I-15 freeway, the Start/Finish Midway can be accessed by taking the Outlet Center Drive exit, heading east, and looking to your right.
For more information on the California 300, visit thecalifornia300.com or follow @TheCalifornia300 on social media.