The world’s fastest and most daring athletes are coming to one of the most scenic landscapes in the country this week.
Gates open Wednesday at Washougal Motocross Park for the ninth round of the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship. Amateurs race Thursday and Friday, before the pros take over the track Saturday. The first moto is scheduled for 1 p.m., Saturday.
After winning both races in his home state of Minnesota last week, Ryan Dungey owns a 56-point lead in the 450 class standings. Ken Roczen, of Germany, and Justin Barcia, of Georgia, will try to gain ground this weekend, but Dungey has won in Washougal six times during his career.
The 250 class has turned into a two-man race between Jeremy Martin, of Minnesota, and Marvin Musquin, of France. Martin extended his lead to 19 points in his home state, but Musquin remains within striking distance. In 2014, Musquin picked up the first sweep of his career in Washougal.
There are also three riders from Oregon establishing themselves in the 250 class. After being named the 2014 Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Rookie of the Year, Matt Bisceglia is putting together a strong sophomore season. The Tualatin native has moved up to ninth place in the standings.
Rookie Chris Alldredge, of Powell Butte, sits four spots behind Bisceglia in 13th place. Justin Hill, of Portland, earned his first podium finish earlier in the season. He hopes for an even better performance just across the river from his hometown.
Washougal Motocross Park has hosted a round of the pro motocross series since 1980. Ralph and Carolyn Huffman own the track. Their son, Ryan, is the track manager. His wife, Tavi, is in charge of marketing.
The elevated track winds in, out and around thousands of fir trees that line the circuit. Both the upper and lower sections of the track are accessible to fans who are willing to walk and climb to find their favorite vantage points.
Three-day park passes are available for $60 a person. Saturday only admission is $40. Overnight camping costs $60. Parking is $15.
Tickets and parking passes can be purchased at the track, 40205 N.E. Borin Road, or online at www.washougalmxpk.com.
For more information about the Lucas Oil Pro Motocross Championship, visit www.promotocross.com.
