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Eric Anderson has no fear when it comes to motocross Chisago City boy loves a good raceBy Barbara Brown Eric Anderson may be only six years old, but he knows how to handle the pressures of racing in motocross competition. He just relaxes after each race by playing in the dirt with his friends. Every weekend between April and September, Eric and his parents, Chad and Angela Anderson of Chisago City, can be found at one of several race tracks in the state chasing Ericís dream of being the best motocross racer in his age group. Right now, Eric is ranked No. 1in Minnesota for the four to six year old age group on PW bikes. He raced last weekend at Hurricane Hills in Mazeppa. Eric is in a close competition with another six-year-old who competed last weekend on a northern Minnesota race track. That competition keeps Ericís parents on their toes, and makes each race just a little more intense. Ericís mother, Angela Anderson, said she cannot watch when her son races. ìIt makes me too nervous,î she said. ìI just canít watch. I donít want to see him get hurt.î Motocross is not a sport without risks. During Saturdayís practice runs, Eric took a corner on the track too fast and wound up slightly banged up. He was checked out in the back of the on-site ambulance and released when the paramedics found no serious injuries. Protective measures include a helmet, goggles, heavy boots, gloves, elbow pads and a chest protector. While Angela Anderson admits she is nervous about racing, she knows Eric loves it. Ericís uniform touts the brand No Fear, a message that Eric carries with him on the track. The choice in Ericís decorations may have more to do with his July 4 birthday, rather than trying to follow in famed stunt man Evil Knievelís image. Ericís father, Chad Anderson spends his spare time watching Eric practice on their homemade track in the back yard. Anderson also serves as mechanic for Ericís bikes. ìAny given Sunday the bike could break and heíd be out of the race,î Anderson said. Ericís trophy was handed over to his mother who then secured it in the truck. ìWe buckle it in every time, just to make sure itís safe,î Angela Anderson said as a wide smile crossed Ericís face. Although Eric rides hard, usually separating early from the pack and retaining a significant lead, he seems to let it all go after the race. Heíd much rather spend his time between races hanging out with the other boys who race alongside him. ©ECM Post Review |