Times Advocate, 1994-10-5, Page 13-41
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Second section - October 5, 1994
Motocross club is high flying fun
Enthusiasts can ride safely and youth have something to do other than hang around on streets
By Catherine O'Brien
T -A staff
EXETER - Build it and they will come.
That's what happened this summer when a group of motocross riding en-
thusiasts got together to build their own riding facility.
The end result was the revamping of a gravel pit, located just outside of
town, and the creation of the Exeter and Area Motocross Club.
"We wanted to find a site away from town so people wouldn't be dis-
turbed," said Paul Chapman, president of the club. "We were lucky to
find a nearby gravel pit."
Exeter residents might remember the distinct buzz of the motocross mo-
torcycles as riders made their way across the river flats. That's where most
riders could be found over the past two years. In fact, Chapman met many
fellow enthusiasts while riding there.
But some residents found the riders a bit annoying as more became in-
volved in the activity. Chapman was approached by a lot of people - in-
cluding the parents of teen riders - who wanted an alternative site found.
That set the ball in motion for Chapman and Allan Brand, club -vice pres-
ident, to start looking for a suitable spot.
'We wanted to get them (the riders) out of the town before the activity
was banned," Chapman said. "I think we accomplished that trick."
The new site is suitable for both recreation riders and those who com-
pete in races. The club now has more than 25 regular members, ranging in
age from 10 to 50 years -old, who ride on the estimated 12 acres of land.
Of course finding the land was only one step towards setting up the club.
Chapman said there was a lot of red tape to go through before members
could officially take over the old gravel pit.
By mid -summer, club members were down to the hard work of picking
stones, shovelling dirt and laying down tires for run paths. The natural ter-
rain of the pit was used for most of the runs although a bulldozer was
brought in to create some bigger jumps.
While the club is all about fun and socializing, there is also a mandate
and many rules that must be followed.
The club's mission statement says the purpose of the club is to provide a
safe, secure environment to promote the activity of motorcycle motocross
riding, and to promote community awareness and involvement.
As well, anyone under 18 years -old can't use the facility unless with a
parent or guardian; and no rider can be there alone. Riders must also wear
spe'ial riding gear such as a helmet, chest protector and riding boots.
Chapman said all riders are aware there is the possibility of injury which
can only be avoided by following the rules and using common sense.
Some people might see the activity as quite dangers, but for the riders
it's just downright exhilarating.
For those who don't know a lot about motocross riding, club members
will tell you it's as much fun as riding a roller coaster. The added bonus is
that you're the one controlling the ride.
"It's a real rush," said Andrew Hern.
"Sometimes you're stomach is a knot if your trying something new, but
it's a good kind of scared," said Matt Spears.
"You really get to challenge yourself," said Jason Keller.
But it's also physically demanding just like any other sport. "It's not just
sitting on a bike and riding around," Chapman said.
Brand said almost every muscle is used in riding.
Another important aspect of the club, Chapman said, is that the younger
riders also learn about responsibility. "The kids were involved from the
start. Along with their parents the kids sat down and drafted the rules for
the club," he said.
As well, the teens learn how to be self sufficient.
"Most of the kids knew very little about the
bikes when they started riding, now they can
repair almost any problem," Chapman said.
"It's too expensive for them to bring the bikes
in for constant repairs so they have to work
together to fix them," he
said.
Chapman also said he
doesn't mind giving up the
time to oversee club activ-
ities or to give a few point-
ers on bike repairs.
"[would rather see the kid
working on their bikes than
hanging around on the
streets," he said.
Paul Chapman of Exeter (on left) is the president of the recently formed Exeter and Area Motocross Club. Chapman, along with
club vice-president Allan Brand, of Crediton, put the ball in motion to create the club and find a suitable spot to ride. At far
right Chapman does some high flying jumps.
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