Hitchhikers guide to the American Nationals - Budds Creek
July 11, 2008
After hosting the 2007 MXoN (MXdN) a lot now is expected of the Budds Creek facility in Maryland. It was already one of the better venues, but with all the changes and improvements required for the MXdN, riders and spectators alike can expect an awesome weekend.
In a nutshell:
Nestled away in Amish country, Budds Creek seems quite small in comparison to tracks like Red Bud and Glen Helen. In reality it is just as big... and with one major advantage: the viewing. Even with the 25k-30k people last summer I think everyone was able to find a good spot to watch from (other than those stuck i the tunnel). Winding in and out of the trees and around a lake, it really does feel like motocross.
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Location: 27963 Budds Creek Road, Mechanicsville, MD 20659
Click on picture for interactive map
Viewing Options:
The famous lake at Budds Creek
As it's another track that's built into a natural basin there are plenty of places to watch from. The hillside under the announcers tower is always popular, as is the area right where you walk into the track, near the start. I believe the track is running in reverse from last year, so that will change some of the jumps (durrr) but viewing will be unaffected. Most places can see the start as well as Henry Hill (which they will be going up) so those two main places are covered. Basically, it's harder to find a bad spot, than a good spot... and with less people than the MXdN, you shouldn't have any problems negotiating that tunnel.
Also they'll hopefully keep the podium in the MXdN position, as the National one meant about 3 people could see it.
Rides to watch:
MX Class - Jeff Alessi #801
In recent times, if an Alessi has crashed, odds on it would've been Jeff. However after Mike's horrendous crash at Red Bud last week, it is up to Jeff to keep the family name riding high. Currently running 8th in the Championship after a year of consistent finishes, there were rumours of him taking over his brother's bike. Although that is unlikely to happen, it still gives him a chance to grab some of the spotlight and show people what he's all about.
Lites Class - Nico Izzi #341
Having had a round off at Freestone, Nico has come back and put in some really impressive peformances. With 3rd place in the Championship only 40points away, it is easily possible for this Suzuki rider to grab podiums in his first full season of AMA Nationals. However, lying directly ahead of him in the title hunt are the other two rookies - Trey Canard and Austin Stroupe so it won't be smooth sailing. Add in Brett Metcalfe and Jake Weimer and he really will have to ride well to grab the points necessary.
This was the scene at the MXdN... so it shouldn't be this busy.
Accommodation:
Whilst not as rowdy as Unadilla or Red Bud, there is still a decent amount of night-life in the Budds Creek camping areas. Last year I was witness to a 75ft slippy-slide which got more chaotic as the night went on. Although I do believe there is a family camping area if that doesn't sound like fun.
The nearest town for hotels is Waldorf which is a few miles north. All the usual chains are there and I think it's where the teams stay. Either there or you can stay in Washington DC which is a good hour away.
Weather:
Gonna be another hot-one, around the 30C mark, plus as it's an east-coast round there will be plenty of humidity. Still, it's better than rain. Thankfully there are plenty of trees around the track to provide shade, but the ones in the better locations are taken pretty early so get your portable chairs out ready.
Alcohol Rules:
Again with the no glass bottles ruling. Other than that, you're good to go.
Other things to do:
As mentioned, Washington DC is only an hour away and is DEFINITELY worth a visit. All the museums in the city are free and they cover pretty much any interest. There is the Holocaust Museum, Air and Space, Navy and many others. Plus you have all the memorials, Arlington Cemetery and of course the White House. It really is an excellent city to sight-see around and it doesn't cost you a penny.
Last year Chad "came off the couch" to get a 3rd overall, we could do with his return as the MX class is running out of riders
Overall:
Budds is a helluva track and I'm glad that a lot of Europeans got a chance to see it at the MXdN, if you didn't make the trip last September then now is a perfect time to redeem that mistake. It is an excellent example of American Motocross and the change of direction should give the riders a little extra to think about... all we need now are some different winners...
David Bulmer
http://www.ayearinmx.com
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