Airway Motocross Park

The Spokesman Review 5/16/2014

After many years as a small business owner, veteran rider Joshua Hitchens tackles a new challenge as the operator for Airway Motocross Park.

In a steady start to the 2014 season, Hitchens’ plans include maintaining success and establishing new goals.

“My mission this year was to continue on with business as usual and steady positive changes to adjust to track life,” Hitchens said. “I have heard nothing but positive (comments) so far about the track operations.”

Hitchens’ biggest task from week to week thus far is akin to working the land, not operating a racing facility.

“The amount of time dedicated to the track to keep moving forward is far beyond a full-time job,” he said. “… You get up early to tackle a huge list of chores. That list of chores extends far beyond the track when you have such a huge facility to take care of.”

Like a farmer, having equipment in good working order is vital to the facility’s success.

“Instead of a crop, we farm dirt bikers,” Hitchens said. “We till, groom, and water the track in order to keep it in good shape for the riders.”

Funding for the facility’s master plan will be crucial to Hitchens’ ultimate goals.

“Money is the fuel for the track,” he said. “The more money we can generate, the faster things will happen. Getting rich is not the mission here. Having a great place to ride is.”