MXS Airmen find summer outlet through dirt biking

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Nora Anton
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska --  Just as the Alaskan winters beckon adrenaline junkies of the boarding variety, Alaskan summers send a calling to those who have a need for speed in the open air and don't mind getting a little muddy.

Although there is endless area in Alaska for any dirt biker to enjoy romping through, Airmen on base are finding it beneficial to harness their motocross skills on a closed course with the Fairbanks Motorcycle Racing Lions.

Senior Airman Shawn Martin, an aircraft structural maintainer of the 354th Maintenance Squadron's fabrication flight, is a recreational and competitive rider spending his days in the sun with the FMRL fueling his love for the sport.

"I've been dirt biking most of my life," said the 23 year-old Lancaster, Calif. native. "I love to push myself to a higher level of competition and hope to make it to the American Motorcyclist Association Pro Lites division."

Members of the FMRL, a non-profit organization, get together for weekly and state races to ride recreationally and competitively. The course the FMRL offers its club members has no age restriction, so even the youngest of riders can gain experience in a safe environment by shadowing the more experienced riders.

While Airman 1st Class Daniel Herbert isn't maintaining jets alongside Airman Martin, he is joining him on the jumps in his dirt bike.

"I have been dirt biking for the past six years," said the Washington state dweller. "What I like most is being able to get away from reality and have fun.

The 18-year-old rides only recreationally.

"If you're going to race be safe about it, you should watch the more experienced riders because you can learn a lot from them, but you really have to go out there and push yourself to be a better rider," said Airman Martin who learned his lesson May 11 during a race when he broke his wrist trying to keep up with a professional motocross racer.

"Sometimes injuries go hand-in-hand with this type of sport," he said. "I was trying to keep up with AMA Pro Rider Jerry Lymburner."

"I'm currently first in points for the racing season and I hope to be back on my bike in a couple of weeks and take the championship for the 125cc class (the size of the engine determines what class a rider races in)," he said. "I will ride bikes as long as my body will allow me to."

Airman Martin would like to thank his sponsors for their help, continued support and belief in his racing abilities: ASV, Panolin, Ready Racing, RK Chains, Excel Rims, MotoXsupport, Steel MX and Decal Works.

For more information on the Fairbanks Motorcycle Racing Lions club visit http://mxfairbanks.com.