Presented By: Kicker Arenacross, a nationwide AX series that features Pro and amateur classes in a track for all ages and skills, check out the series HERE
Josh Cline owns Ph3 Phree Phore-All Photography and took at trip to Chicago for MighiganMotocross.com Check out his Facebook Page for more of his pictures.
Your alarm clock goes off at 2 AM. You go through your checklist of things before you leave the house. Gear, funds, and the mindset for a great weekend. As so many others did, I hit the road to Chicago, Illinois. With cold weather outside of the Sears Arena Center, it did not take long for things to heat up. A mass of Motocross and Supercross athletes, collide under one roof. With classes ranging from the youngest, to the older, the beginner, to the experienced, everything was in store for a great weekend of racing.
As the bikes warmed up, exhaust fumes filled the room. Participants and spectators alike got ready for the first night of racing on Friday evening. The athletes poured everything they had into that track. From the drop of the gate down the fast straight away, to the first corner bringing the high speed to a near stop, bar to bar elbow banging brought the crowds to life!! Turning left leading into a rhythm section where some doubled and some tripled followed by a hairpin turn to a Finish line table top. As you would land, a quick left turn leads you down a series of tight and unforgiving whoop sections. This section claimed many athletes. Once clearing the section and a sweeping left turn your back to the fast straightaway. Many aspects of this track claimed victims. However, many athletes rose above the difficulties, and came out on top. Multiple repeat winners in a few classes, as well as first time winners who have been chasing the podium for years.
From my viewpoint on track level, you could see the determination in the eyes of each individual athlete as you look through their goggles. There was no doubt in my mind that everybody was there to win. Nothing was left on the table for each final. Some racers only raced on Friday night, and some racers participated both Friday and Saturday. As Friday came to a close everyone went to their trailers, hotels, or vehicles to catch some much-needed rest before a long Saturday.
As the doors opened on Saturday many athletes, parents, and family members were there to support each other throughout the day. Encouraging words, came from the form of signs and vocal participation. As the professionals practiced, you could tell there was a lot of patience and studying of the track. With multiple line options, looking over the course was a must. They too left it all on the track. The fans were given a show from all classes, but the pros definitely gave the fans what they came to see!! Local riders from Illinois, showed their hometown fans what they had. However, outside participants from Indiana, Wisconsin, and of course your home state of Michigan came out and put on a show as well. Congratulations to all the Michigan participants, and athletes that made this possible.
Not to be out done by the racing, freestyle athletes Kassie Boone and Cody Elkins, put on a show for the spectators. From backflips, to superman’s, Indian air to other contortion style tricks and variations, everyone in the building was in awe. Both Friday, and Saturday shows went off without any glitch. These two performances were a sight to experience in their own!
I think it goes without saying, that a staff that works well together, turns an event from good to great. Tod and his team did exactly that. This is one event you must attend, or participate in. From runners to help with bikes, to those holding it down in the corners and straightaways with caution flags to keep the safety of riders the most important portion during a race, they all handled each task with exceptional attention. Well done to the entire staff at Kicker Arenacross, as well as the Sears Center Arena.
If you are somewhere along the schedule of events, be sure to attend one of them.
This place, like so many others, have great location and attractions close to the event. Large malls, great food, and easy access was a great asset to this weekend. With hotel accommodations close by, and food within walking distance, many restaurants saw geared-up athletes stop in for a bite to eat between races. It even brought more spectators. As I experienced a few families at a local restaurant, they expressed interest in checking out the event. As myself, a few colleagues, and athletes ate dinner we were asked for photos and information about the event. During Saturday’s event one family flagged us down to say hello. It made the kids day! For myself as the other athletes, that is what it’s all about. Class and sportsmanship towards not only other athletes, but the fans!
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For more information on the Kicker AX series CLICK HERE