How to Start Racing ATVs in Winchester, Virginia

ATV racing is a high-adrenaline motor sport you can get your children involved with. This is the perfect activity if your child prefers extreme sports to traditional extra-curricular activities. If you live in Winchester, Virginia, getting started in ATV racing is a bit of a challenge because there are no ATV racing facilities or places to practice within the city limits. Rural areas surround Winchester, however, so you may find luck finding a place for your child to practice ATV riding. ATV racing is an excellent way to prepare kids for the responsibility of driving a car on the highway.

Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure the ATV is appropriate for the child's age. As of January 2011, Virginia state law states that children between ages 12 and 16 may operate ATVs with engine cylinders of no more than 90-cubic centimeters and children under age 12 may operate ATVs with up to 70 cubic centimeters.

    • 2

      Purchase the required ATV safety gear, including a helmet, goggles, gloves, long pants, long sleeves and riding boots. A protective vest with an armored chest plate is also a good idea.

    • 3

      Enroll your child in an ATV training course. You can find classes near you on the ATV Safety Institute website at online.svia.org/training, but you should be aware that as of January 2011, the closest course is 94 miles from Winchester in Connellsville, Pennsylvania.

    • 4

      Practice riding your ATV in an area free from traffic, so you get used to handling the vehicle. ATV riding is prohibited on highways, but you can practice on rural land.

    • 5

      Visit "The Cove Campground" in Gore, Virginia, just 18-miles west of Winchester to access 30-miles of "MotoCove Offroading" trails. "The Cove has one-way loop trails for beginner, intermediate and experienced riders that you can access for $25.00 per day.

    • 6

      Practice racing on a real dirt track during practice days at Tomahawk Motocross Park in Hedgesville, West Virginia, which is just 30 minutes north of Winchester. As of January 2011, members can practice on weekdays for $25 per day, the non-member rate is $50 per day, weekend passes are $75, weekday yearly passes are $400 and unlimited yearly passes are $750.

    • 7

      Join a riders association to gain exclusive access to information and get to know other ATV racers. You can become a member of Tomahawk Motocross Park or join the All Terrain Vehicle Association.

    • 8

      Enter racing events in your area when you are ready to ride competitively. There are races held at Tomahawk Motocross Park or you can check for events near you on the All Terrain Vehicle Association website at atvaonline.com. If ATV racing is your true passion, you could even travel to participate in races throughout the country.