Adams Motorsports Park: A Southern California Racing Gem

Adams Motorsports Park: A Southern California Racing Gem

Located in Riverside, California, Adams Motorsports Park (AMP) is one of the most iconic grassroots motorsports venues in Southern California. Known for its tight, technical layout, AMP has been a staple in the region’s karting, drifting, and time attack scenes for decades. With a history dating back over 60 years, Adams has provided an affordable and accessible entry point for motorsport enthusiasts, making it a breeding ground for future professional racers.

1. The History of Adams Motorsports Park

Originally opened in 1959, Adams Motorsports Park began as a karting facility but quickly grew into a versatile motorsports venue. Over the years, it has hosted karting championships, motorcycle racing, time attack events, and grassroots drifting competitions. The track’s intimate setting and challenging turns have helped countless drivers refine their skills and move up the ranks in various motorsport disciplines.

Adams has also served as a testing ground for many professional drivers, including those who have competed in Formula Drift, NASCAR, and IndyCar.

2. Track Layout and Features

Adams Motorsports Park is a .75-mile circuit with a mix of tight hairpins, fast sweepers, and elevation changes. Some of the key track features include:

  • Multiple Layout Configurations – The track can be adjusted for different types of racing and drifting events.
  • Technical Corners – AMP is known for its challenging corner combinations, requiring precision and skill.
  • Compact Size – Unlike larger road courses, AMP allows spectators to be close to the action, creating an exciting atmosphere.
  • Smooth Asphalt Surface – The well-maintained track offers consistent grip levels for both racing and drifting.

3. Drifting at Adams Motorsports Park

Drifting is one of the most popular activities at AMP, with weekly drift nights, competitions, and private events drawing drivers from all over Southern California. The track’s technical nature forces drivers to develop strong car control and smooth transitions, making it an excellent training ground for grassroots drifters and professionals alike.

Some of the top drifting events at AMP include:

  • Thursday Night Drift Sessions – One of the longest-running grassroots drift nights in the country, allowing drivers to practice and improve in an open session format.
  • Pro-Am Drift Competitions – Featuring up-and-coming drivers competing for professional licenses.
  • Private Drift Days – Small-group track rentals for those looking to refine their skills without a large crowd.

4. Other Motorsports at Adams Motorsports Park

Aside from drifting, Adams Motorsports Par

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