01/29/2025
Can’t wait!! 😎
McArthur, OH – 24 Hours of Appalachia, in partnership with the Ohio Gambler 500, Backroads of Appalachia, Southern Ohio Forest Rally and the Town of McArthur, is thrilled to present another installment that melds the spirit of challenge with a noble cause. The 24 Hours of Appalachia – Buckeye Blitz is a fundraiser to benefit a local scholarship foundation (TBA) and Backroads of Appalachia (501C3) (BOA).
Poised to showcase the rugged beauty of Southern Ohio, the event invites participants to traverse just under 600 miles of the state’s majestic backroads and trails. Spanning from the quaint town of McArthur hosting the Wild Turkey Festival to the amazing backdrops of Shawnee State Forest, Tar Hollow State Forest, Zaleski State Forest, and both the Ironton and Wayne Units of the Wayne National Forest this 24-hour test of endurance, strategy, and heart is not just a rally against time—it’s an Appalachian mission.
Scheduled for May 2-4, 2025, the charity run will spotlight hand-picked driver teams and riders. These highly skilled drivers and riders are charged with the formidable task of completing the route within the 24-hour limit. Participants will be immersed in the Appalachian landscape, passing through iconic Ohio locations such as:
– Hocking Hills with its rich history and lush scenery
– The expansive wilderness and Iron Furnace of Wayne National Forest
– The Hope Furnace within Zaleski State Forest
– Ohio Valley’s cultural and historical landmarks like Horseshoe Mound
Beyond the adrenaline and the test of resilience, driver teams will come together to bring awareness and support to local charities, specifically promoting a local scholarship foundation (TBA) . Your participation or support of the 24 Hours of Appalachia – Buckeye Blitz isn’t just an investment in adventure; it’s an investment in hope for deserving young adults and for Backroads Of Appalachia to continue its mission to bring economic growth to ALL areas of Appalachia.
CALLING ALL GAMBLER 500 LEJUNDZ (AND FUTURE LEJUNDZ)
Bring Your Rig, Run What You Brung, and Leave Your Mark on Ohio!
This is a one-of-a-kind event through the rugged beauty of Southern Ohio! We’re opening the gates for more slots if the demand is there—so gather your crew, prep your rig, and get ready to make history. This isn’t just about finishing; it’s about strategizing, enduring, and celebrating your rig and your team. With every mile, every trail conquered, and every unexpected twist, you’ll be writing your story into Gambler 500 lore. Get ready to become a Lejund in the Gambler 500 community!
Don’t Wait—Claim Your Spot!
We’re adding more slots as needed, so rally your crew now! Whether you’re a seasoned trail hunter or a first-timer, this is your chance to make your mark and your rig unforgettable.
100 Slots - Full Size Vehicles
50 Slots - SXS (Must Be Street Legal)
50 Slots - Motorcycles (Must be Street Legal)
25 Slots - Gambler 500 Outlaws (Must be Street Legal)
For those who can’t make it but still wish to contribute, donations are welcome and deeply appreciated. Together, let’s drive change and hope for these young lives while exploring the hidden gems of Appalachia’s backroads.
Are you ready?!
Rules and Requirements:
Vehicles must be licensed and insured
Drivers must have valid drivers/operators license
All full size rigs and SXS’s must have a co-driver/navigator (not required, but a third person for spotting/recovery is advisable if vehicle space allows)
4WD/AWD vehicles only
28” minimum tire size (NO MAX TIRE SIZE)
Functioning seat belts and safety restraints
The ability to self recover (winch, traction boards, hi-lift jack, come along)
First Aid Kit
Navigational tools (Gaia GPS, OnX, Garmin) must be able to open and follow a .gpx file and also record a track at the same time (We will check for accuracy at the end of the event)
Adequate lighting
Air compressor
Tire repair kit
GMRS Radio (No CB’s)
Cell phone
All gear in the vehicle must be secured (no flying objects)
All OH Traffic and Road Safety laws apply
Dual Sport/Adv Requirements:
200cc-1300cc (covers TW200’s and KTM 1290 ADV)
Full Knobbies front and rear
GPS/Phone navigation and related mounts
Handheld Radio
Full wrap-around handguards
Fully insured and street legal
USFS stamped spark arrestor and no louder than 98 decibel exhaust
Spare tubes or plug kit
First aid kit
Gear:
DOT approved Helmet
Goggles/safety glasses
Full length shirt/jersey and pants
Gloves
Full length boots
Interested drivers, navigators, and supporters can apply for the event at this link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfTkyaZWIHODR_l5ml01aKKs74yzcFiKXRTVoIXxllsTP-knw/viewform?usp=sharing
ABOUT BACKROADS OF APPALACHIA:
Backroads of Appalachia’s (501C3) mission is to spark economic growth in the region through motorsports and tourism, supporting local communities while sharing the breathtaking beauty of Appalachia. Last year we were able to provide an economic impact of just under $100 Million dollars in KY and WV.
Route created and compiled by:
Appalachian Overland Triangle (Shawn Amory)
The GOAT (Brad McFadden)
Backroads of Appalachia (Jedediah Smith)
Southern Ohio Forest Rally (Jeremiah Johnson)
Contact:
Jedediah Smith
304-992-4717
[email protected]
Backroads of Appalachia | Appalachian Regional Commission | Appalachian Overland Triangle | Lost at Last Adventure Travel | Lekker Bru Media Ohio Governor's Office of Appalachia
