Racers take over fairgrounds

Top Dawg Arenacross came back to the Sanders County Fairgrounds and with it came high flying, mud flinging, mullet sporting action. The event featured 14 different classes ranging from 4-6-year-olds all the way up to seniors 50 years and older. Taking place over the course of two days it seems there was a class for just about everyone this year which made for some much anticipated entertainment.

"I waited until the second day to come out and watch the riders send it,'' said Kaiden Robins of Thompson Falls. "I really enjoy watching the more experienced pro class riders but I have to admit that I really get a kick out of watching the little kids ride.

The Sanders County Fairgrounds haa a long history of hosting arenacross events but up until 2021 it had been almost 10 years since the thunderous roaring of sport tuned exhaust pipes and the pungent smell of high octane race fuel had filled the air over Plains. In the beginning of motocross taking place on the grounds. Ron Warren of Plains organized motocross for a few years around fair time. For several years, Warren put on competition on a 5,400-foot track in an area that is presently used for parking at the fairground and alternated the competition with a track in Niarada.

Top Dawg ArenaCross owners Jamie and Tyler Larsen of Kalispell now run the event and this is their second year hosting arena motocross in Sanders County. It seems county residents had a good time at the races and are thankful for the event's comeback and those who brought it back to the area. "I think it is awesome that we have some sort of dirt bike racing around here again," said Plains resident and race attendee Aidan Rich. "I never want anyone to get hurt but watching riders wipe out is pretty crazy. There were some pretty gnarly wrecks this year but the EMTs did an awesome job of taking care of them. I can't wait to see what happens at next year's races."

For more information about upcoming Top Dawg arenacross events go to, topdawgarenacross.com.