Latest News
The 50cc Junior class in Hare Scrambles is not restricted to oil injected only bikes. Any 50cc machine that is or was manufactured for the 50cc Junior class is legal. The rule book will be updated to clarify this issue. The bike may be oil infected or a premix manufactured for the Junior class.
Written By: Jackie Riess
Tommy Keech joined District 23 ARMCA in 1991 at 15 years old. He began racing motocross on his 1987 Honda CR125, and thoroughly enjoyed racing in his teens. In 1994, he joined the United States Marine Corps and began racing through the deserts of California. Claiming he “had no clue about any of it,” he raced his big tank, 19” rear wheel YZ 250. Tommy turned out to be an incredible off-road racer, and competed in the expert class at his first off-road race: the Lucerne Valley National Hare and Hound. This was quite the venue for his first non-motocross race, and he faced adversity throughout. This included a magnificent crash, but he was able to remount the motorcycle and finish the nearly 100 mile race. He finished in 3rd in the 250 Expert class, which earned him 19th overall in the race. He was hooked, and continued to compete in off-road and motocross races. Tommy now competes in the 40+ A and 45+ A classes in motocross in District 23 ARMCA, and strives to have as much fun as possible on his dirt bike.
Tommy is inspired by many groups of racers in the local community. He loves watching the kids, as he knows this is an experience few will receive. The A and B riders keep him motivated to improve as a rider. And the vet riders keep his competitive spirit alive. Learning from racers of all ages and skill levels, Tommy hopes to return to the Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National someday, as his greatest accomplishment in motocross was his 6th place finish in the 30+ class in 2010.
Like many others, motorcycling has impacted many facets of Tommy’s life. He imagines “it has contributed to some break-ups, some cool scars and injury tales, and an insane amount of fun, memories, and some of the best friends anyone could ever ask for!” Knowing how special the community in District 23 ARMCA is, he truly appreciates the impact these people have on his life. Tommy has also seen value in joining the Minnesota chapter of Veteran Motocross Foundation (www.veteranmx.com | @veteran_mx | @veteranmxmn). He enjoys being a part of a group of like minded people, and is proud to help bring veterans together through Throttle Therapy. He explains, this gives veterans “an outlet for things that may otherwise disrupt their lives, such as PTSD or service related trauma.” Tommy hopes to bring motorcycling as therapy to other veterans, and continue to use the sport to make a positive impact on others’ lives.
Tommy continues to race in District 23 ARMCA because of the thrill, competition, and camaraderie. Though these feelings are somewhat indescribable to non-racers, he knows it’s impossible to walk away from the sport. In addition to riding and racing, Tommy enjoys spending time with his four boys, spending time in the shop, and participating in all things outdoor recreation. All compiled, with the addition of an incredible dinner, would make for his perfect day.
Tommy advises other District 23 ARMCA members to remember to keep racing fun. If it isn’t fun anymore, “or you find yourself mad at your kid for not performing to a certain level, take a breath … this is supposed to be about good times, making memories, and putting smiles on our faces!”
This article was prepared by an independent contractor and may not be the views of the board of directors of District 23 ARMCA or any of their sponsors or affiliates.
Sataurday, August 7th D23 Dayton Youth Enduro and Sunday, August 8th D23 Dayton Main Enduro
This episode of The Roots features Adelynn Jackson and her parents Coy and Michelle. After competing in her first full season of racing in 2020, Addy continues to compete in District 23 ARMCA and across the midwest. We chat about how she got into racing, why she enjoys it, and the family atmosphere of off-road motorcycle racing.
Congratulations to all of the D23 riders that have qualified for Loretta Lynn’s this year!! We will once again be hosting a potluck dinner at Loretta's for all of the D23 & honorary D23 members & their families that will be attending. Please join us on Sunday, August 1st around 5:30 - bring a dish to share & a chair to sit on! We will be providing hot dogs, plates & utensils. If you've joined us in the past, we hope to be parked in the same general area, if you are new to Loretta's - look for us near the portable showers. We hope to see all of our Loretta riders and their families there!! #proudtobeD23
Written By: Jackie Riess
Bentlee Walker is a young District 23 ARMCA member and motocross racer competing in multiple 65cc and 85cc classes. In addition to racing motocross, Bentlee enjoys riding his bicycle, swimming, jumping on the trampoline, and playing football and basketball. He began riding dirt bikes when he was 2 ½ years old, and started his racing career at the ripe age of 4. His racing began at the Friday Night Series hosted by Motocity, and quickly transitioned to full-time District 23 ARMCA racing. Bentlee’s greatest racing accomplishment (so far) has been placing 8th in the 51cc 4-6 Limited class at the Loretta Lynn’s Amateur National in 2017.
Bentlee continues to race in District 23 ARMCA because of his love for racing and the lifelong friendships he is creating. Inspired by Minnesota native Ryan Dungey, he strives to become a professional motocross racer, and make multiple trips to Loretta Lynn’s Ranch along the way. With the help of his parents and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Bentlee tries his hardest to achieve his goals. Following advice to stay humble, kind, and persistent, Bentlee encourages other D23 ARMCA members to follow their hearts and do what makes them happy.
This article was prepared by an independent contractor and may not be the views of the board of directors of District 23 ARMCA or any of their sponsors or affiliates.
Episode 9 of The Roots is now live! Featuring Larson Cycle’s Mike Larson. Mike is a long time member and supporter of all things District 23 ARMCA. Find this episode (and episodes 1-8) on all major podcast networks and our YouTube channel!
