AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series kicks off this weekend in Taft, Calif.

PICKERINGTON, Ohio -- The American Motorcyclist Association welcomes this weekend's kickoff of the AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series, an AMA Featured Series that will feature eight rounds of thrilling grand prix off-road racing in California and Nevada.

"Grand prix competition is a unique mix of off-road, motocross and in many cases extreme enduro obstacles, and it always varies with each venue," said AMA Off-Road Manager Chuck Weir. "Racers who enjoy going fast on their motorcycles across challenging off-road terrain, and who appreciate the effort and organization provided by a top-notch promoter, should check out the AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series."

Hosted by the Dirt Diggers MC, round one of the series is at Honolulu Hills in Taft, Calif., this weekend, Feb. 2-3.The club has laid out a course that weaves through the grass-covered hills and incorporates an exciting motocross track.

"This is one of our racers' favorite courses," said Mike Garvin, series media relations officer. "This series is one of the most accessible in the region. There are classes for all ages and abilities, and with all the recent rains, epic conditions are inevitable."

The Big 6 is an AMA District 37 organization that sponsors eight race events each year. The races attract more than 1,000 entrants at each round. For details, see www.big6racing.com.

2013 AMA District 37 Big 6 Grand Prix Series

Round 1: Dirt Diggers MC, Feb-2-3, Honolulu Hills Raceway, Taft, Calif.

Round 2: Prarie Dogs MC, March 2-3, Glen Helen Raceway, Devore, Calif.

Round 3: Hilltoppers MC, April 6-7, Rodeo and Motoplex, 29 Palms, Calif.

Round 4: Shamrocks MC, May 4-5, Buffalo Bills Casino, Primm, Nev.

Round 5: So Cal MC, June 1-2, The Ranch Anza, Calif.

Round 6: Viewfinders MC, Oct. 5-6, Ridgecrest Fairgrounds, Ridgecrest, Calif.

Round 7: Prospectors MC, Nov. 2-3, Quail Valley, Gorman, Calif.

Round 8: Vikings MC, Dec. 7-8, Pala Raceway, Pala, Calif.