FELLSMERE — A year ago ATVs and motorbikes slinging dirt as far as their tires could launch it returned to MESA Park. The site received approval from the Fellsmere City Council to host mud-bogging and motocross at MESA Park in October 2011 and has been in operation since.
Sunday, Sept. 2, the park attracted 61 riders. Because of demand, the park was opened for Labor Day. Their youngest rider so far was 3 and the oldest 82 years old.
“It’s great, I’m so glad they put something here like this,” said Andy Inman, a motocross rider, who came out with his son, Austin, 4.
“No complaints have been filed,” said Fellsmere City Manager Jason Nunemaker, regarding activities at MESA Park.
The park operators went as far as to have a trial day on a Sunday for local churches. No complaints were made and they now have hours on Sunday.
As of late, the biggest obstacle has been the rain, which closed the track periodically. Hurricane Isaac forced track owners to do “major renovations,” according to their facebook page. To keep up with track openings and events, visit them on facebook: http://on.fb.me/RcYEdb and http://mesapark.net/
“We always wish them success in everything they do,” said Fellsmere Mayor Susan Adams. “It’s a good thing for the city to have something going on out there.”
A program is also available for kids and adults who want to volunteer in return for an equal amount of riding hours.
“We’ve come a long way,” said Kevin Mahon, operations manager at MESA Park.
Since opening, they have renovated the east end of the park and done away with the mud-bogging aspect, converting it into a smaller motocross track.
Their next big event is Oct. 20 – a Florida Trail Rider event that will bring over 200 riders to MESA Park.
Looking forward, along with races and riding, Theresa Duke and Mahon are planning to have boat and car shows, flea markets, and concerts.
At MESA’s peak, from 1998-2002, they brought in 90 shows to an amphitheater that seats 10,000 people.
“They’re excited to see the pulse back,” said Mahon. “We expect big things for 2013.”