Cycle News Staff | August 1, 2023
A new, state-of-the-art observation tower opens at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch MX Track and will serve as both the onsite operations center for RacerTV and for spectators viewing for event.
The new observation tower will serve as the centerpiece of the motocross track at Loretta Lynn’s Ranch. Photo Courtesy: MX Sports / Align Media
The following is a press release from MX Sports…
Hurricane Mills, TN (August 1, 2023) — The hallowed grounds of the motocross track at Tennessee’s legendary Loretta Lynn’s Ranch welcomed a new focal point just in time for the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, presented by AMSOIL, following a ribbon-cutting and dedication ceremony for a new, state-of-the-art observation tower. The multi-level structure will serve as the centerpiece of the venue, offering spectacular vantage points of the action on the track for both VIP and open spectator viewing while also serving as an on-site home base for RacerTV.
The observation tower was built by Salisbury, North Carolina’s Makson Construction. The company, owned by Phoenix Racing founder David Eller, has played an integral role in the rebirth of Loretta Lynn’s Ranch following the tragic floods of 2021, and continues to establish its own unique legacy with the world’s largest motocross event.
Construction of the tower wouldn’t have been possible without the selfless contribution of the 88 Live to Ride, Inc. charity organization, which donated the shipping containers that provide the foundation of the structure. Established by the Bartosek family following the tragic passing of up-and-coming Pro ATVMX racer Matt Bartosek, 88 Live to Ride is committed to advocating and supporting the protection, education, and safety of riders involved in ATV racing.
“88 Live to Ride is excited to be a part of this new addition for the racing community at Loretta Lynn’s and how exciting that the opportunity came about during our 20th year of service to the ATVMX community,” said Debi Bartosek, Founder of 88 Live to Ride. “We would invite anyone who would like to learn more about 88 Live to Ride’s mission to visit our website at 88livetoride.com.”
(L to R) Debi Bartosek (Founder, 88 Live to Ride), Rita Coombs (Founder, MX Sports & AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship at Loretta Lynn’s), and David Eller (Owner, Makson Construction & Phoenix Racing) Photo Courtesy: MX Sports / Align Media
Thanks to the organization’s many years of philanthropic efforts within the racing community the observation tower was dedicated to Bartosek in honor of 88 Live to Ride as part of the ribbon cutting ceremony. It will serve as a permanent symbol to celebrate the foundation’s contributions to the racing community.
“The service we provide to the ATVMX community is free ‘walking wounded’ care,” added Bartosek. “For the last three years we’ve contracted with Resilient Performance to also offer physical therapy and massage to our riders.”
The tower is dedicated to 88 Live to Ride, celebrating their philanthropic support of the ATV motocross community. Photo Courtesy: MX Sports / Align Media
The observation tower features three levels, anchored by a fully enclosed VIP area on the first floor. The second level will serve as the on-site operations center for RacerTV throughout the week, while the third level observation deck for open viewing for event attendees will provide the best sightlines on the property.
The observation tower consists of three levels, including a fully enclosed VIP area. Photos Courtesy: MX Sports / Align Media
Racing is officially underway at the 2023 Monster Energy AMA Amateur National Motocross Championship, as five full days of motos lie ahead across 36 classes of competition. All the action can be seen live, each day, exclusively on RacerTV.
