2005 ATVA GNC MX Round #4 - Echeconnee Off-Road Park

You’re tuning into round 4 coverage of the 2005 ATVA ITP Moose Grand National Championships Motocross Series at Echeconnee Off-Road Park in Macon, Georgia.

The April Fool’s weekend started off rather interesting with Friday’s practice being cancelled due to torrential rains which plagued the area most of the day. That rain combined with the sandy, soft soil made it nearly impossible to even enter the gates to park on the grounds as anything less than 4x4 ability almost guaranteed getting stuck. Those without it were brave to give it a shot as taking the right line was key and taking the wrong required assistance from the bull-dozers, while on-lookers received a chuckle. The rain ceased mid-afternoon on Friday and with winds reaching 20-30 mph on Saturday the Echeconnee grounds and track were in prime condition for the Sunday main events. The final verdict: Over 500 individual riders made the trek with 765 entries scaling it to be the second largest ATV race in the world, just short to the 2004 series finale at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch last August. Although it doesn't lead as the series opener anymore, promoters Donny and Tamara Banks should be happy to know that it is still a favorite among riders of the nationals.

Sunday morning was shaping up to be a beautiful day as the sun crests the horizon.

The gates and track were groomed to perfection just waiting for the first takers.

A panoramic view of the amazing track built by none other than Mark Barnett. Former racer and curator of many famous tracks including those at the homes of riders like motocross and Supercross star James “Bubba” Stewart.

Vendor row gears up for another day, while riders are still getting their groggy eyes open.



NOTE: Sorry the merging of the photo to create the panoramic did not line up very well...sorry!

Trackside Graffix has all your fancy lettering needs.

On Saturday, Blazin’ 92.3 was on the grounds pumping up their volume and advertising the event on the radio. It was great to hear announcer Mark Strawbinger’s voice over the radio promoting the racing action to listeners of the station.

We are in Georgia and they sure are proud to be quad racin' down here.

Promoter (former Pro rider from the ‘80s) Donny Banks partakes in the mornings Pro riders meeting at 9am on Sunday, April 3.

As done at every National, Pro riders draw for starting position. It’s about as random as you can get and it maintains its tradition with pro riders.

Joe Haavisto (75) gets the position everyone always hopes for.