Thirty-two years ago, the love for all things motocross shaped Skip Osbourne into likely the only local racetrack engineer valley folk can refer to today.
    Since riding his first bike in 1976, Osbourne moved his home to Olney Springs some three years ago.  The now local racetrack engineer helped to build numerous tracks in Oklahoma, all the while desiring one that he could claim his own.
    Now, waiting ever so patiently near the once fire scathed Ordway Fairgrounds, is a track all his own to which he says will rival the best that the state has to offer.
    The track is a 1.4 mile sandy loam track with a covered start gate.  The site features a playground and picnic tables while boasting a racing staff with 60 plus years of experience.
    “Racing has always been a passion of mine,” said Osbourne.  “A lot of people in the valley share the same passion.”   
    Called Rabbit Run Motocross Park, Osbourne will host his first event on the course July 20.  The event is titled Rocky Mountain Regional Vintage Motocross and will feature antique bikes from Colorado and Texas.  Admission for the race is $10.
    When referring to what he believes a local racetrack can bring to the local communities, Obsourne remained optimistic in saying, “This will be good for the community.  There are a lot of local riders and most have to travel to Colorado Springs or Denver to ride.  Not only will the track bring in riders from across the southwestern United States and help out local restaurants and hotels, but it is very family oriented fun for all ages and genders.”
    His second of what he hopes to be many planned racing events, Osbourne has committed to hosting a motocross charity race for Ordway fire victims on Sunday, July 27.  According to Osbourne, there will be no gate fee for spectators, only donations to be given to the victims of the Ordway fire.
    “We were hoping to do this a lot sooner,” said Osbourne, “but the track wasn’t ready in time.”
    When speaking to the Tribune on Tuesday, Osbourne said the track was 95 percent complete, adding that the track would be completely finished over the weekend.
    When asked how often races would be held, Osbourne said that he hopes to host monthly events with 100 plus riders or so from all over the state and surrounding states.
    As for those interested in riding, Osbourne assured that local EMT and ambulances will be on stand by if ever needed.
    Those interested in learning more about Rabbit Run Motocross Park are urged to visit the track’s website, www.motocrossmx.com, where they can learn of upcoming events or contact Obsourne either online or by phone.