Well folks, apparently it was that time of year again, the time when dedicated desert rats put their lives on hold for 3 days in December and hit the highway to heaven in search of Ocotillo Wells to attend what has now become the 2nd Annual MOB Syndicate ‘The Hit Is Out’, founded by none other than ‘The Godfather’ of Freestyle Motocross himself Mike Metzger. Having been my first time out to Ocotillo I was not quite sure what to expect, other than I was extremely excited to actually be visiting an authentic freeride location not unlike those seen in the early ‘Crusty Demons of Dirt’ films I watched so much growing up. What I was exposed to over the next 3 days in the desert was nothing short of epic, influential times with awesome people who I could see were out there to enjoy the fundamentals of what it is that makes them keep kick starting dirt bikes time and time again, and that being, the freedom of riding.
Rider: Jorel Bermudez Photo: Sergio Guiducci SG Photography
Before ramps and touring freestyle shows there was ‘freeriding’, natural terrain riders that were one with the earth. Riders that would judge distances by instinct and take uncalculated risks in the name of ‘going big’ and finding the ‘ultimate hit’, and nobody comes to mind more as a pioneer of this type of riding mindset than Mike Metzger. Mike with his passion for the industry has brought forth this weekend and an opportunity for people to ride with him, not only escorting the older crew, but taking the younger kids on daily rides to help them experience the true meaning of the sport.
Rider: Mike Metzger Photo: Sergio Guiducci SG Photography
Listening to various conversations upon arrival I quickly learned that this was also a first time out to Ocotillo for various other riders around me, including some coming from as far away as Russia, Sweden, Canada and the United States abroad to get a piece of what it’s really like to ride the Californian landscape, and I assure you, it won’t be their first and last time. I witnessed some pretty crazy hits over the 3 days, and some of the first timers to Ocotillo (eg. Sebastian Isaksson) were deadset impressive, as they stepped up to the plate and put it all out there on the line in search of that ‘ultimate riding thrill’.
Riders: Derrick Mcclintock (left) Vinnie Carbone (right) Photo: Sergio Guiducci SG Photography
Only being it’s second time around, I can already see ‘The Hit Is Out’ becoming bigger and better, as more people start to find out about it, and get onboard what seems to be the fastest growing annual freeriding event of it’s kind here on the West Coast. Riders can look forward to some of the greatest riding sessions they could ever imagine, with an assortment of photographers on location capturing some truly great moments in FMX. As was in 2009, Saturday evening was topped off with live music, this year featuring such bands as Day Zero, Lead Burns Red, My Own Holiday, Idasas and Rob Michaels, along with a killer bonfire to ignite the night.
Images: Saturday night entertainment was enjoyed by all. Photo: Sergio Guiducci SG Photography
So there you have it, MOB Syndicate’s ‘The Hit Is Out’ 2010, if you didn’t get out to Ocotillo and join us this time around make sure you put it in your calendar for 2011. The only regret you’ll have if you come is that it’s not long enough. Until next time, live free, stay safe and remember, if you can’t be good, be good at it!
All images courtesy of Sergio Guiducci from SG Photography
Written by Spoox © The MOB Syndicate. All Rights Reserved
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