Racer Profile: Oak Adams’ Journey from Late Starter to Mint 400 Champion

Oak Adams, a 45-year-old off-road racer from Salt Lake City, Utah, has a long-standing passion for off-roading that began in Oxnard, California. Racing in the 201-300cc Sportsman class on his 2017 KTM XC-W, Oak’s journey into the off-road community was inspired by his desire to share the excitement with his children, eventually drawing him into the sport himself at a later age.

Oak’s first memory of off-roading is a humorous moment, excitedly revving his engine before a race only to realize he was in neutral when the race started. Despite the initial hiccup, he was hooked once the race began and has never looked back.

His passion for racing can be traced back to childhood, heavily influenced by his father, who frequently took him to the drag strip. In addition to off-road racing, Oak has dabbled in various racing disciplines, including motorcycle drag racing, desert racing, and hard enduro racing. Oak knew he wanted to race from a young age, a dream that materialized into a lifelong pursuit. His mentors, both in racing and life, include his father and a host of notable figures in the racing community, such as John Force, Billy Bolt, Manny, Nick Thompson, and Mark Mahoney.

Before a race, Oak’s go-to meal is a hearty combination of bacon and eggs on a tortilla. His get-pumped playlist features Motorhead on random. His training routine involves intense workouts leading up to a big race, tapering off with lighter reps and staying active in the final days. Nutrition is also a critical component, with a focus on carbs and hydration before the race and protein during the race.

Oak considers winning the Mint 400 his greatest achievement in motorsports. The experience of lining up at the start of the Mint 400 was a surreal and thrilling moment for him, fulfilling a decades-long dream. His team, consisting of Painted Temple, Black Thumb MST, family, friends, and teammates Mark Mahoney and Nate Vandervliet, played a crucial role in his success.

Oak credits his triumph to his wife, who pushed him to stay fit, and his friends and teammates, who kept the spirit of competition fun and engaging. Oak’s goals in the Unlimited Off-Road Racing Series are to participate in all events and relish the camaraderie and competitive spirit of the series. He finds the supportive environment among racers refreshing, especially given the challenging nature of off-road racing.

The key to Oak’s endurance during rough races is sheer grit and the promise of an ice-cold beer at the finish line. He thrives on the challenge and the reward that comes with it. Reflecting on his first win at the Mint 400, Oak describes it as “rad” and a realization of a lifelong aspiration. Despite stiff competition and doubts about their chances, his team’s hard work and dedication paid off.

Looking back, Oak would advise his younger self not to let work overshadow the joys of life, emphasizing the importance of balancing work with the pursuit of passions and experiences. Oak Adams is a testament to the spirit of off-road racing, showcasing how passion, determination, and a supportive community can lead to remarkable achievements and unforgettable experiences.

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