Interesting post about the state of our sport

The New Years Holiday is a time most people are filled with hope and excitement.  It is a time where we all feel a fresh start is possible.  However, in the world of motocross racing, the New Year brings uncertainty.  Unease.  It seems a new track closes, sometimes temporarily - sometimes forever, every week.

The trend is so alarming we think it is imperative to take time and communicate to all of you the danger your sport is in.  It is important information for you to know and understand because as serious as the issues are - you - the participants, parents and fans are a HUGE part of the solution.  

You may simply be unaware of the recent closings and issues facing promoters. 

You may be aware but feel as if those tracks closing are so far away it won't affect you here in the Midwest.  However, that couldn't be further from the truth.  Let's talk about why.

Did you know there are less than a handful of companies who will write policies for Motocross Racing facilities and events?  You cannot simply call up State Farm and get coverage.

Did you know some of these companies want to see minimum participation age raised to as high as 18 years old?

Lawsuits and Litigation are on the rise.  (We will circle back to this later to talk about how this affects you if you have a "practice track" at your home.)

Does that seem like a promising direction for you sport?  

It's not all doom and gloom though, because you - yes "you" - have the power to make a difference.  You can make a difference through your actions online and at the track.  Let's talk about how you can help and what you are doing to make things worse.

No one likes changes of policy that directly affect your "freedom" at the track.  Getting the big issue out of the way first.  Pit Vehicles.  

Pit vehicles have been a rising problem for years - this is not a secret.  Small and large promoters and events alike have struggled with this issue.  Here is where it stands and why your social media comments and negativity are harmful and dangerous to the continuation of MX Racing as you know it.

When a promoter posts new Pit Vehicle rules, they are immediately met with an onslaught of negativity.  While there are voices of reason in the comment section, those who disagree with the rule's "yell" (post more often, seek out new places to post, tag others they know will also complain, etc.) louder.  They yell so loud it is what everyone from outside the motocross racing community sees.  And it is viewed as unreasonable.  Stubborn. Irresponsible.  You are ALL judged based on the comments of the loudest voices in your community.    Why should you care what those outside the MX community think?  Because they are the lawmakers.  The insurance underwriters.  The insurance carriers.  The lawyers.  The judges.  The jurors.

So, before you become that angry guy in the comments ask yourself one question - Is pit vehicles the hill you want MX racing to die on?  If so.....carry on....you are on the verge of success.

When you are at the track you can make a difference by respecting and abiding by the Pit Vehicle rules at each facility.  Every facility you visit may have slightly different rules.  Respect the fact that the promoter, track builder and property owner have all put everything on the line to give you a place to ride.  Complaining about having to walk, having to follow rules, basically, behaving responsibly, is not the way to show the promoter, insurance companies, judges, lawmakers, (the world) that MX racing is insurable and sustainable for years to come.  

We will be posting our pit vehicle rules soon.  There have been changes, but a lot is the same.  When they are posted - make your choice.  Be part of the problem or part of the solution.  Negative comments on social media are the same as if you say it in person the day of the event.  Be prepared to take responsibility for your words.  

We read the comments sections just like you and one theme we have picked up on is people questioning why pit vehicles?  Surely on track accidents are more frequent, more dangerous, etc. etc.  Here is the bottom line - Accidents involving pit vehicles are litigated more often.  It's simple.  Insurance companies look at risk.  Pit vehicles involve a higher risk of litigation.  

Another area of increased risk is Minor Riders.  Minors - requirements and forms will be posted soon.  Make sure to have all requirements met, no exceptions will be made the day of the event.  Parents - before you send your minor with another person make sure you understand the risks.   

Parents and minors - Never lie or sign for a minor under false pretenses.  You are directly endangering that facility's future by doing so.  Don't lie - be prepared.  Don't allow a minor who accompanies you to the track to ride your pit bike thinking it can't hurt anything. 

Classes - There will be a few changes to classes.  They will be posted soon.  Understand, some changes are because riders have been asking for them.  Some changes are due to insurance requirements.  Be confident that every year we are reviewing classes and considering suggestions from the previous season.  Not every suggestion can be implemented.  We are careful to not create too many classes.  In fact, our series has less classes than most, not just in the Midwest, but across the country.  Yes, we see your Facebook comments and we can say one thing for certain.  

EVERYONE agrees there should be less classes.  NO ONE thinks their class should be eliminated.  This is a constant and universal struggle for promoters.  Try to understand and realize we are all doing our best.  

Now, finally, as promised let's circle back to home practice tracks.  Did you know that motorsports activities are exempt from homeowner's policies?  ONLY motorsports specific policies provide liability coverage.  

Your best buddy wouldn't sue though, so as long as you only allow people you trust to ride you will be ok, right?  WRONG!  This could not be further from the truth!  If someone is injured, their insurance company can sue on their behalf.  Insurance companies are not generous by nature and if they can find a responsible party to cover a large and/or ongoing medical expense, why wouldn't they?

Don't take my word for it though.....call your insurance company.  Not your agent - the actual company writing the policy.  Notify them you have a MX track that you allow others to ride.  Ask them if you are covered. (This is simultaneously excellent and terrible advice.  Excellent because you should know the risk.  Terrible because there is about a 99% probability you will receive a cancellation of your homeowners notice within 90 days of telling them.)  Why are we telling you this?  Why haven't we brought it up to people before?  Because at least a few people will accuse us of having an ulterior motive.  We are bringing it up now because of how heightened the risk is for you.  You should be aware of the risk.  Do what you will with the information.

If you are reading this please understand, we promote amateur motocross races because we love the sport.  We love the racing community and cherish all the fun and memories we have had over the years.  Everyone who has ever promoted amateur MX events will agree, you don't do it to get rich, because you won't.  Those of us out here putting everything on the line to give you and your family a place to ride, play and have fun together do it because we love it.  When we make rules, more often than not, they are handed down to us and to be open we have to abide by them or lose our insurance and/or sanctioning. 

New Competition Motocross tracks will be few and far between.  Take care of the ones who are left.  The land they sit on is worth far more to anyone than the actual motocross track built on it.  Lift them (we are talking about all tracks, not just ours) up on social media, don't tear them down.  Show everyone you are a positive, well-rounded group who is willing to behave responsibly in order to see the long-term continuation of your sport.