Renner just the latest motocross star to compete at Muddy Creek

By Allen Gregory
Sports Writer / Bristol Herald Courier
Published: June 4, 2008

BLOUNTVILLE, Tenn. _ It’s been become an almost weekly routine for Ricky Renner.

The 19-year-old motocross sensation delivers a flawless run, then is asked about his famous brother.

Such is life for the Renner family of Mulberry, Fl.

“A lot of people ask about my brother, and I have nothing but good things to say about him and what’s he’s accomplished,” Renner said.

Thirty-one year-old Ronnie Renner, who formerly competed in motocross, is a star in the flashy and risky world of freestyle motocross.

The family thread runs strong in the world of motocross. Ricky and Ronnie are just the latest in a long line of brother combinations that includes Keith and Kevin Johnson, Damon and Zach Bradshaw, and Malcolm and James Stewart.

Ricky Renner, 19, was among the professional standouts in Sunday’s Mega Series event at Muddy Creek Raceway. He finished among the top five in all his motos, with one win.

“Racing was always where Ronnie’s heart was and he raced everything growing up,” Renner said. “Ronnie will admit that he didn’t do the things he needed to do to reach the top in motocross.
I’m sure he regret that’s now, but he’s making a good career now doing freestyle and I’m doing my thing in motocross.”

The resume continues to build for the younger Renner. He has competed on the Supercross national series the past two years, finishing 19th overall this past season.

“I’m pretty happy with the way I’m riding,” said Renner, who also has international experience. “Unfortunately, I don’t have anything lined up to do any of the outdoor national events. I’m trying to get involved in some of those nationals and pull in some top 10 finishes.”

Nearly 500 riders in over 20 divisions competed at Muddy Creek Sunday. Pro riders such as Mike Brown, Ricky Carmichael and Ezra Lusk have all competed at the scenic Blountville track.

“I’ve been to Muddy Creek quite a few times, and remember coming here on a little 80 cc bike,” Renner said. “I like this place, especially with the reconfigured track.”

Renner is part of the wave of successful riders from Florida, who are challenging the supremacy of the California-based contingent.

“Motocross has always been a battle between East and West,” Renner said. “Right now, Florida is definitely where it’s at for motocross.

“Where I live in central Florida, there are quite a few tracks to practice on.”

Renner receives sponsor help from a motorcycle shop in Lakeland, Fl. and moral support from his parents.

“My dad competed in local motocross events, plus my mother, older brother and younger brother have all been involved in the sport,” Renner said.

As is the case with other forms of motorsports, the nomadic motocross community is feeling the pinch with high gas prices. Renner is not immune to the high prices, yet he realizes there are no shortcuts to national success.

“It cost us about $600 to make the haul down here from Florida,” Renner said. “Motocross can be a pricey sport, but its what we’ve always known and it’s still relatively cheap compared to other forms of motorsports.”

Despite the headaches and hassles, Renner manages to maintain a smile in a sport fueled by free spirits.

“Oh yeah, basically anybody that gets to ride a dirt bike enjoys life,” Renner said. “It’s probably about the funnest thing in the world to do.”

As for the comparisons between his brother, Renner just rides with it.

“I watch Ronnie on TV every chance I get and he motivates me in ways most people will never understand,” Renner said. “Freestyle riding is not really my game, but we’re both having fun.”

Who: Ricky Renner
What: Motocross racer
Hometown: Mulberry, Fl.
Fast Facts: Renner rides up to three hours per day five times a week.  
Note: The Southeast Amateur regional motocross will be held June 13-15 at Muddy Creek Raceway in Blountville, and the ATV Southern Nationals will follow on June 21-22 at Muddy Creek.
(276) 645-2544.