AMARILLO, TEXAS -- Motocross riders of all ages are hitting up Bowers MX Race Track in North Amarillo to get more practice on burns and jumps before they head to bigger and better races.
Races at Bowers MX are held the first weekend of every month from March to August, and with 23 different classes offered, riders of all ages get the opportunity to improve.
"There's people that go to Arizona and Tennessee and Colorado and, you know, New Mexico," Race Coordinator Shane Redline said. "And it just helps them to prep for other tracks that they're getting ready to race."
Monday's races had a rider as young as four years old compete, showing many riders start learning as early as they can. Redline's seven-year-old son Jax has been riding since he was three, and he enjoys the sport, like any other rider, for the adrenaline.
"'Cause you get to go fast," he said. "That's what I like about it."
Like any sport, there are risks. And with high speeds and powerful motors, motocross offers a little bit more.
"I've really got hurt three times," Jax stated. "The medical car came over because that's how much they thought I got hurt. I finished the race even though I crashed."
Learning what to do in tight situations is just part of the down-and-dirty sport. Redline said he feels motocross benefits his son both on and off the track.
"It gives a lot of kids a chance to have something to work towards all week long. As for my son who races, it gives me something to use to motivate him- make sure he's making his grades and it helps good behavior."
The Big Side of Texas Spring Championship is May 5-6, and Redline invites anyone to come watch.
"We'd love for more people to get involved. It's a great spectator sport. It's high adrenaline, lots of fun."
Bowers MX Race Track is located at 3704 W. Hastings. Primitive camping is available.
Bowers MX can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bowers-MX/142908595725065.
