Dan Vanden Heuvel, known throughout the off-road world as The Flying Dutchman, has been nominated to the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame (ORMHOF) Class of 2025. This nomination recognizes his nearly five-decade-long racing career and lifelong service to the off-road community, according to Kenda Tires.
Vanden Heuvel launched his off-road career in 1977 at the age of 15 at Crandon International Raceway. Over the next 49 years, he became a standout competitor and mentor in series such as SODA, CORR, WSORR, and TORC, Kenda Tires said. His aggressive driving earned him the nickname The Flying Dutchman and led to a driving record that includes:
- Over 20 Pro-Class wins;
- Five Crandon World Championships;
- One PRO-2 Championship;
- Team ownership of Flying Dutchman Racing, which has earned more than 20 combined World and Series Championships;
- Team ownership for his son, Mikey Vanden Heuvel, who delivered Kenda Tires’ first PRO-2 win and first PRO Championship.
Dan Vanden Heuvel: Building Community Beyond The Podium
He co-founded the Midwest Off-Road Racing (MORR) Association and served as its first president from 2009 to 2018. His community involvement includes:
- Directing contingency programs;
- Maintaining tracks;
- Emceeing banquets and events;
- Helping create the Short Course Kart Series for young racers;
- Volunteering in youth and community programs;
- Mentoring drivers through Flying Dutchman Racing;
- Co-developing the MORR Injured Driver Fund with his wife, Nancy.
Supporting Kenda And Growing The Sport
As Product Display Manager for Kenda Tires, Vanden Heuvel supports sponsored drivers and offers pit assistance for Ultra4 USA and UNLTD Off-Road Racing teams. He also plays a key role at national trade shows and leads Kenda’s annual Light Truck Boot Camps, the manufacturer said.
“Dan is more than a legend. He is a mentor, a servant-leader, and the beating heart of the offroad community. He helped deliver Kenda’s first PRO championship and still shows up for others every single weekend. We are honored to have him represent Kenda and even more proud to call him family,” said Brandon Stotsenburg, VP of Automotive Division, Kenda Tires USA.
Celebrate Dan’s Induction At The ORMHOF Gala
Kenda is inviting folks to join in celebrating Dan Vanden Heuvel’s impact at the Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Location: South Point Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
Date: Sunday, Nov. 2
Time: 5 p.m. – Annual Gala Ceremony
