Motocross Jam Fest blazes through Combat Center

Twentynine Palms -- TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. - The rider’s engines growled at one another as they took their places on the starting line. With the wave of a flag, the racers took off, kicking flurries of mud and dust into the air and igniting the crowd who cheered for their favorite competitor.

The world of motocross blazed through the Combat Center during the Motocross Jam Fest March 12, 2016.

“This is the second year we’ve held this event,” said Liz Spurbeck, special events manager, Marine Corps Community Services. “Last year was in response to a survey where patrons on base said they wanted to see an outdoor sporting event.”

The event was free and open to all hands. It included concession stands, motorcycle stunt performances by professional motocross riders, and live rock music from Boston-based band, Lansdowne. Additionally, the freestyle riders from the Metal Mulisha Moto Team performed a series of stunts on a 13-foot ramp and afterward, all of the riders went through a designated stunt course.

“It’s very convenient to not have to spend money for gas and traveling and have something like this so close to home,” said Lance Cpl. Bobby Peters, rifleman, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment. “Motocross might not be everyone’s favorite thing but being able to see the stunts and tricks is great for both children and adults.”

In between stunts, the riders took time to sign autographs and answer questions for the crowd of spectators.

“We’ve always been huge supporters of our military,” said Jimmy Fitzpatrick, freestyle rider, Metal Mulisha. “Any time we have the opportunity to come out and do a show for these guys; it’s really more of a bonus for us.”