“He’d fly through the air with the greatest of ease…” was the first thing that came to my mind when I arrived, but I wasn’t at the circus. I was at the Orlando MX Park in Bithlo, Florida, one of the premier motocross tracks in Florida!
Orlando MX Park
As I walked across the property early yesterday morning looking for the owner, Dean Dyess, I watched other riders as they unloaded their MX bikes. These bikes are very different from other “dirt bikes” because they are specifically built to race at high speeds on dirt tracks that have obstacles, high jumps and tight corners. Every rider I saw had a unique look in their eyes. One of determination, fearlessness and anticipated excitement.
Dean Dyess: Owner
I saw Dean first on the track on the dozer manicuring the dirt back to where it needed to be due to all the recent rain, then caught up with him in the office. I found out from him that this track has been operating in Bithlo since 1969 and is the longest operating motocross track in Florida. Dean and his family came up from Okeechobee, FL ten years ago and took ownership of the park just a few years ago.
Training
Though Dean doesn’t ride much anymore, he is not only well respected in the motocross community, but highly sought out for his training and coaching in the sport. From kids to adults, boys and girls, Dean’s knowledge and experience definitely shows as his students literally fly across jumps and dig into the turns! Although he may be training more than one rider at a time, each student gets his undivided attention.
Track & Staff
The track itself is constantly and beautifully manicured and maintained by Dean and his staff. I was relieved when I was welcomed by some of the friendliest folks I’ve ever met. Many times when I go out to get photos and a story I’m harshly turned away. Everyone here was refreshingly welcoming not only to me, but to everyone who was there. Dean even gave me a few tips before I entered the track area. He told me to be sure to cross the track in front of a jump; not behind it where they land, and was serious when he jokingly told me, “Don’t get run over.”
Hours
Our rainy days over the past few months have frequently canned regularly open days, but when the track is dry enough it is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. They have a yearly membership for $25.00 to be a member of the club, and $30.00 to come out and practice. Dean’s instructional prices vary, so be sure to contact him if you are interested.
Contact & Upcoming Races
You can contact Dean and the Orlando MX Park on their Facebook and Instagram pages. If you are looking for a premier track to ride, this one is definitely one you need to visit. Dean’s venu will be hosting the Unlimited Sports MX Florida Gold Cup Series this month on October 19-20, 2024 and their Christmas race December 14-15, 2024! Be sure to come on out!
