North South Machinery proudly congratulates Hunter Valadez of Telemetry Motorsports on completing the 2026 King of the Hammers, marking her first race competing in the Youth 1000 class at one of the most demanding off-road events in the world.
Sanctioned by Ultra4 Racing, King of the Hammers is known for pushing drivers and machines to their limits across brutal desert terrain and unforgiving rock trails. This year marked a major milestone for Hunter as she moved up into the Youth 1000 class, a significant step forward in power, speed, and technical challenge.
The transition delivered exactly what she was looking for.
“I loved it a lot because it was definitely more challenging than the 170,” said Hunter.
The race tested her resilience in true King of the Hammers fashion. After losing a tire mid-race, Hunter continued pushing forward.
When asked if she would go back out for more laps, she responded confidently:
“Yes, but not on three tires.”
How long did she race on three tires?
“For 44 miles.”
For 44 miles, Hunter drove on just the wheel, no tire, refusing to quit. Her perseverance, composure, and determination to finish embody the very spirit of off-road racing.
In addition to completing her Youth 1000 debut, Hunter earned recognition from the Robert Parker Memorial, which supports UTV riders and especially rookie UTV racers entering the sport. She was named the highest finishing rookie class member in the 4900/UTV division at King of the Hammers, an impressive achievement in her first year competing at this level.
North South Machinery is proud to contribute to Hunter’s 2026 racing season and her King of the Hammers campaign. Supporting driven competitors who push boundaries, whether in manufacturing or motorsports, reflects the same commitment to performance, resilience, and excellence that defines our company.
“We are incredibly proud of Hunter’s effort and determination,” said North South Machinery. “Her grit on race day represents what it means to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacle.”
As she continues her Youth 1000 journey, Hunter’s performance at King of the Hammers signals the start of an exciting new chapter, and North South Machinery looks forward to being part of the road ahead.
