The American Rally Association announced today that it has retired number 43 in honour of Rally Icon Ken Block.
To Honor An Icon
Ken Block’s sudden passing earlier this year in a snowmobiling accident left the rally world in shock. For some, it still doesn’t seem real, and probably won’t for a while. The ARA will join the WRC and Nitro Rallycross in retiring number 43 in honour of Ken Block. The decision to retire number 43 was made by the Block family. The ARA will honour the number in partnership with the Block Family and the organizers of the Rally In The 100 Acre Wood.
To Celebrate A Legend
The ARA will officially retire Ken Block’s number 43 on Thursday, March 16th with a celebration. The ceremony will feature Ken’s wife Lucy Block, as well as his daughter Lia. Joining Lucy and Lia will be Ken’s longtime co-driver Alex Gelsomino, and Alex’s wife Rhiannon Gelsomino. They will also be joined by the entire rally community, whether it be in person or virtually via the ARA YouTube channel.
Flat Out 43ver Tribute Tour
Lucy and Lia Block will return to Rally this weekend. This will be a part of their “Flat Out 43ver Tribute Tour”, a tour which will feature the remaining rounds of the 2023 American Rally Association championship.
Continuing Ken’s Legacy
To continue Ken’s legacy the Block family as well as Ken’s friends have decided to start the 43 institute. The institute will carry on Ken’s legacy of creating paths of opportunity for the exceptionally driven, who may lack the proper support system for growth and success. The 43 institute aims to open the door of opportunity to the network of creatives, business leaders, marketing experts, top-level athletes, and artists that Ken has built in his decades-long career. Providing grants and supports to make dreams happen. Click here to go to the 43 institute website.Â
My name is Joe Moore. I am a writer for Belly Up Hockey, Belly Up Racing, and Belly Up Sports. You can find me on Twitter.
