South West Motor Sports: A Tribute to Roger Grant, the Legendary Off-Road Racer

South West Motor Sports, the renowned off-road racing organization based in California, has etched an indelible mark in the annals of motorsport history. At the heart of this illustrious organization lies the legacy of Roger Grant, an iconic figure whose unwavering determination, impeccable driving skills, and indomitable spirit transformed the face of off-road racing.

South West Motor Sports

by H. Roger Grant

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	440 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	442 pages
Hardcover	:	210 pages
Item Weight	:	1.04 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.5 x 9.21 inches

FREE

The Early Years: A Passion Ignited

Roger Grant's lifelong passion for motorsports ignited at an early age. Born in 1936 in Pomona, California, Grant's fascination with cars propelled him to pursue his dreams on the race track. As a teenager, he honed his driving abilities in go-karts, setting the stage for his future success in the thrilling world of off-road racing.

Conquering the Baja Peninsula

Grant's defining moment came in 1967 when he entered the unforgiving Baja 500. This grueling, 500-mile race traverses the rugged terrain of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, a testament to the extreme endurance and skill required in off-road racing.

Despite fierce competition and treacherous conditions, Grant and his co-driver, Vic Wilson, emerged victorious, capturing the overall title and leaving an unforgettable mark on the Baja 500. This triumph propelled Grant into the limelight, cementing his status as a formidable force in the off-road racing world.

Dominating the SCORE Series

In the years that followed, Grant continued to dominate the SCORE International Off-Road Racing Series, a highly competitive championship that tested the limits of both drivers and vehicles. Behind the wheel of his iconic Chevrolet Blazer, known as "Mr. Sunshine," Grant racked up an impressive string of victories, including multiple Baja 1000 and Baja 500 triumphs.

His relentless pursuit of speed and precision earned him the nickname "The Flying Mexican," a testament to his exceptional driving abilities and his ability to conquer the unforgiving desert terrain with unmatched finesse.

Innovations and Legacy

Beyond his racing achievements, Grant also played a pivotal role in advancing the sport of off-road racing. His innovative spirit and technical expertise led to the development of critical safety features and performance enhancements for off-road vehicles.

Grant's legacy extends far beyond the race track. He founded South West Motor Sports in 1972, an organization that has nurtured generations of off-road racers, providing mentorship, technical support, and a platform for aspiring drivers to showcase their talents.

A Champion On and Off the Track

Off the track, Grant was known for his unwavering dedication to his family and community. A loving husband and father, he devoted countless hours to supporting local schools and youth organizations. His infectious enthusiasm and unwavering optimism inspired countless individuals to pursue their dreams and embrace the challenges of life with determination.

Awards and Recognition

Grant's contributions to off-road racing were recognized with numerous accolades and honors. He was inducted into the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1987 and received the prestigious SCORE Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.

In 2019, the City of Pomona unveiled a permanent exhibit honoring Grant's remarkable life and career at the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum. This tribute serves as a lasting testament to the impact he made on the sport and the community he cherished.

Roger Grant, the legendary off-road racer and founder of South West Motor Sports, exemplified the true spirit of competition and innovation. His unwavering determination, exceptional driving skills, and unwavering belief in the power of human potential transformed the face of off-road racing.

Grant's legacy extends beyond the race track, inspiring countless individuals to embrace challenges with enthusiasm and to chase their dreams with unwavering resolve. The South West Motor Sports organization, which he founded, continues to foster the spirit of off-road racing, providing a platform for aspiring drivers to showcase their talents and pursue their passion for speed and adventure.

The story of Roger Grant, "The Flying Mexican," will forever be etched in the annals of motorsport history, a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the enduring pursuit of excellence on and off the track.

South West Motor Sports

by H. Roger Grant

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	440 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	442 pages
Hardcover	:	210 pages
Item Weight	:	1.04 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.5 x 9.21 inches

FREE