Racers return to Washougal MX Park

Racing is back on at the Washougal MX Park, but motocross enthusiasts have a whole new set of COVID-19 rules and regulations to contend with.

The park opened for recreational riding on Friday and Saturday, May 8-9, and again on Saturday and Sunday, May 23-24. Huffman said that “most of the people were pretty cool with (the restrictions).”

“On our first rec day, out of the 200 people that came through, I’d say between six and 10 cringed at the rules,” Huffman said. “But, for the most part, everybody was pretty respectful. There were some people that struggled, and that was to be expected. They want to come here and connect with their friends and family.”

Governor Jay Inslee’s phased reopening plan allowed motocross facilities in Washington to begin slowly reopening — first to riders and eventually to families and fans — on May 14. The facilities must meet strict requirements to help prevent further spread of COVID-19 and must only conduct activities allowed under their county’s phase status.

In response to a request from the Post-Record about the park’s opening, Marissa Armstrong, communications specialist for Clark County Public Health, said that “(we don’t) ‘approve’ businesses or venues to reopen under the governor’s order. The decision on what is allowed to open in each phase is made by the governor’s office.”

“While the opening round of the season has been the only confirmed event as of today, the RLT is diligently working towards compiling a national championship schedule by closely monitoring the reopening plans for each respective state on the initial Pro Motocross calendar, while event organizers continue to communicate with their respective local officials. Announcements pertaining to the confirmation of additional rounds will come in phases, as more dates and venues are determined and solidified. ”

According to the park’s website, all competitive events have been cancelled or postponed until further notice. For now, only recreational riding is allowed.

“We ran as a recreational outdoor activity day the first weekend, according to the governor’s orders for recreation and outdoor use,” Huffman said. “We are still running that way until our first competition, which we can’t have according to the latest governor’s order.”

Under the Phase 1 guidelines, motocross park employees are required to keep their buildings and equipment sterilized, wash their hands frequently, practice safe social distancing and be screened for signs of the coronavirus at the start of their shifts. They’re also strongly encouraged to decline cash payments and keep a log of all customers.

“Our goal is to meet or exceed the outdoor recreation guidelines and as well as the workplace guidelines,” Huffman said. “We can provide a safe environment and manage the facility in a responsible manner. However, it’s up to the patrons to follow the guidelines and restrictions set in place by the government so that we can move forward with no bad marks or repercussions. It hasn’t been easy, and I don’t agree with it all, but we have to do what we have to do be be safe and work with the government and see the bigger picture.”