They Called Him "The Legend" Remembering Walker Evans

Walker Evans (nMedia3 photo)

Few figures in motorsports history have shaped the off-road world like Walker Evans. Known simply as “The Legend,” Evans didn’t just earn that title, he defined it. His recent passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in racing, but his legacy will continue to inspire racers, builders, and fans.

Walker Evans was a titan in off-road racing, racking up 142 victories throughout a career that spanned decades. Evans won the Baja 1000 nine times along with multiple other signature off road event wins such as the Mint 400, the Parker 400, and earned championships in SCORE International, and Stadium Off-Road Racing. As one of the first to bring off-road trucks into stadiums, Evans helped launch the Mickey Thompson series and brought the sport to a national audience.

But beyond the trophies, Evans was a builder, in every sense of the word.

Through his company, Walker Evans Racing, he engineered high-performance shocks and wheels that became a staple in off-road performance. His products raised the bar not just for racing teams, but for recreational drivers, off-road manufacturers, and vehicle builders across the industry. His influence can still be seen in suspension setups and wheel design to this day.

Just as important as his professional success was the character Walker Evans displayed beyond the deserts and race tracks where he competed. He quietly gave back to the communities he raced in, supporting medical and dental clinics in Mexico, personally delivering supplies, and funding services for underserved populations. His commitment to giving back was as steady as his racing line.

Walker also mentored young drivers, supported new racing series, and stood as a champion for the sport’s growth from grassroots to professional levels. He believed in the power of racing to unite communities, build confidence, and create opportunity.

At the U.S. Motorsports Association, we recognize individuals who not only succeed in competition, but who help move the entire industry forward. Walker Evans embodied that spirit. His work helped create the foundation for modern off-road motorsports and the performance aftermarket that surrounds it.

Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the off-road racing community. We honor a life well lived and a legacy that will continue to guide this industry for years to come.

God Speed, Walker Evans. You were, and always will be, The Legend.