Engines Roar as Motocross Defies the Chill at Coney Island
IslandStats.com
The silence of the nature reserve was shattered by the thunderous return of motocross to its spiritual home, as thousands of spectators "tilted" Coney Island for the first leg of the Pink Sand Scramble 2.0.
Despite a "cold blast of Canadian air" that brought a distinctly wintry feel to the island, the atmosphere remained white-hot as local heroes and international professionals braved the breezy conditions to tackle the technical dirt circuit.
Organised by 27-year-old Bermudian professional Jyire Mitchell, the event marked a triumphant follow-up to last year’s historic return to the park.
The challenging course, designed to utilize the natural environment rather than a man-made track, drew high praise from a trio of American professionals who made the trip to compete for the $10,000 purse.
With riders ranging in age from youth divisions to seasoned veterans like Kenneth Matthie, the event lived up to its billing as a community-driven spectacle that bridged generations of racing fans. As the breeze whipped off the North Shore, the resilience of the crowd reflected the enduring appeal of a sport that hasn't seen regular action at this venue in over two decades.
While the festive weekend’s weather has remained "chilly and cloudy," the energy at Coney Island provided a much-needed jolt of adrenaline. The engines are set to roar again this coming Sunday, January 4, for the final leg of the series, where champions will be crowned across all divisions.
