Flat track racing builds a family’s bond

Hailey Heseltine
ECB Publishing, Inc.

Imagine what it is like to race flat track. You line up among other racers on your trusty dirt bike or motorcycle, feeling the anticipation bubble up within you as you anxiously eye the light and wait for the signal to turn. In the blink of an eye, a simple switch of color makes dozens of racers rush into action, engines growling as they accelerate down the track. You move fast, faster than you could ever dream of running, as you lean into your bike and let it carry you to the curve. You lean far into the left turn, defying the sense in your brain that screams “danger!” Exhilaration and anxiety collide within you, but the determination and discipline you have worked so hard to cultivate does not break easily. This adrenaline, and what you can do with it, have become your pride and joy. This is the life of a flat track racer.
Flat track was the earliest form of motorcycle racing, invented in the 1920s. Flat track racing is done with automobiles and motorcycles, though the latter is more popular today. The sport was originally on a wooden track, but it was switched to be traditionally clay or dirt after the dangers of racing on a surface that lacked traction became readily apparent. These tracks are much safer for riders, and are often used today. Though it has changed much over the years, the simple concept has remained the same: bikers race at high speeds around an oval track in a counterclockwise motion, leaning nearly 180 degrees at each left turn. The sport requires discipline, technique and lots of practice.
A local family, the Parkers—James, Melissa, Jada and J.J.—have taken special interest in flat track racing. James enjoyed motocross and shared the love with his two children, Jada, age 13, and J.J, age 11. Because of this, they began riding dirt bikes from a young age and were able to discover their beloved hobby early.
“They've been riding since they were only about four or five years old, and they loved it,” explains Melissa Parker, their mother.
Motocross was the family's primary focus of interest for years. Motocross is much more dangerous than flat track, involving risky jumps at high speeds. Their daughter, Jada, sustained several injuries from the sport, and while she was on the mend, the family decided the sport was too risky to continue pursuing. Luckily, their hobby did not end there. A friend introduced them to flat track racing as an alternative to motocross, as a way for them to continue enjoying the rush of bike racing without so much danger.
“We thought it would be better for our family. There are risks, and you can fall, but when you do, the impact won't be so bad,” Melissa says, explaining their reasoning.
The family decided to delve deeper into the world of flat track racing by seeing some races for themselves at the nearest tracks. When interacting with the racers, they discovered a diverse and welcoming community is behind it all. Though many professional flat track racers are young, among the hobbyists there is a mix of racers of all ages, even plenty of middle-aged and elderly racers. Melissa reports that they were very friendly and helpful, and definitely an aid in their flat track journey.
They were fortunate to have friends generous enough to share their tracks with them so that they could practice, Dom Brock with Canyon Suspension and Gary Wood with Woody's Moto Ranch. Their schedules are busy, with the children's schoolwork and James and Melissa running their business, Pro Roofing, but that does not stop them. Melissa reports that they are at the tracks for several hours almost every weekend, practicing enthusiastically.
“If we're not working, we're racing,” she says.
Flat track, just like any other hobby, has a difficult learning curve—figuratively and literally. There is a conflict between what your mind and body want to do, especially when leaning far to the left during the turns. It takes a lot of skill and technique for riders to get comfortable with riding in a position that feels like a fall. Muscle memory, technique, getting used to the equipment and posture are all essential elements of becoming a good flat track racer. All these things can be earned with vigilant practice and lots of help from experienced racers, and luckily, the flat track community is full of people ready and willing to give tips to newcomers. Even so, the act of being in a race is a challenge all its own. There is a big difference between flat track at home and flat track at a real race. Anxiety, anticipation and distractions can completely change the way the racer rides. Because of this, it takes much discipline and determination to race successfully—something that can only be obtained through hard work.
The Parker family's hard work has paid off. After a recent series in Ocala, the family brought home several awards to show for it. James was awarded first place in open, novice and vintage, as well as second place in 30+ and hooligan. J.J. was awarded first place in open and youth. Though she did not win any first place awards, Jada received second and third in some categories—truly a remarkable feat, especially considering how long she was unable to practice due to her injuries!
“She's so determined...” says Melissa. “She never let it hold her back.”
Though Melissa does not race, she loves traveling, and flat track includes a lot of that. When they travel together to visit the arenas, they get to spend quality time together and “see things [they] never would've seen otherwise.” She appreciates the sport and how it has created new opportunities for them to bond.
“We get to spend time together, we get to experience triumphs together...not many people get to do that,” she says.
The sport's imppact even extends into their personalities, into the development of important traits that help them to succeed in the world outside the racetrack.
“It's taught them patience, confidence, determination and sportsmanship...despite being a solo sport, it's still a community. They get to race with friends, and they all push each other to do better and celebrate their triumphs together,” Melissa explains. “Everybody is so helpful. They take you in as family.”
The Parkers encourage all who wish to try flat track to see a race for themselves. Then, Melissa explains, you will feel it all—the rumble of the engines, the exhilaration, the tension and the determination. With a loving family of fellow racers to guide you on your own track in life, who could deny its call?