SOUTHWICK – Rick Johnson of The Wick 338 met with the Select Board on Tuesday night to report on the results of the 2017 Motocross Nationals that took place in Southwick last summer.
A nationally-televised event on NBC (National Broadcasting Company) on July 8, Johnson was happy to announce that ticket pre-sales for the event increased by 24% from last year’s pre-sales. The increase is the highest amount in Motocross Nationals’ history. Johnson also discovered from the Nielsen Report that the race had the highest viewership on national television of any motocross event in the past three years.
Rick Johnson of The Wick 338 discusses the 2017 Nationals with the Select Board. (Photo courtesy of Greg Fitzpatrick)
Informing the Select Board that this past year’s organization of the race was much more improved than 2016, Johnson highlighted a new front-gate system, which made it much more efficient and accessible for people to enter the track. The spectator’s viewing area was also improved by 30%, due to tree trimming.
Johnson was pleased with how the Nationals turned out last year.
“The day went very smoothly,” Johnson told the Select Board.
Johnson is excited about the 2018 National race that is taking place this year on June 30. Although NBC Sports will be televising the spectacle, NBC Global will not be televising like they normally have because of a prior engagement they have on that day.
The Wick 338 is optimistic about the improvements that can be made for the 2018 race.
“We’re looking forward to a very strong 2018,” said Johnson.
Some of the additions include over 1,000 feet of new fencing, more sprinkler systems, a re-positioning of the bleachers, and an upgrade on the food vendor services.
