For the past 12 years, Henry County residents have had a place to leave the ground in a vehicle without worrying about the law.

The Sandy Ridge BMX Park opened its gates in 2000 and track operator Alan Farmer said residents have been enjoying the motocross scene since that time.

“BMX is now an Olympic sport and it is a great sport for the entire family to enjoy,” Farmer said. “It allows riders as young as 2 years old all the way to 78 to enjoy a fun time.”

Farmer, track operator since 2004, said he hopes the 2012 Olympics this summer will bring more riders out to the track.

Not only is the track a good place to unwind and have fun running around the track, it attracts state, regional and national races.

The track is affiliated with USA BMX and held a state race last season. This season the Red Line Cup regional race will be at Sandy Ridge. Farmer said the track plays host to more than 30 races each year.

“We try to get one big race per year and we average about one every other year,” Farmer said.

Farmer said the appeal of the sport is simple.

“It is such an explosive, high-speed sport that offers action-packed races,” Farmer said. “That is probably the most action-packed 40 seconds you will find.”

Farmer said Henry County residents seem to enjoy the family atmosphere of the park as well.

“The appeal is something other sports don’t offer,” he said. “If you have a son and a daughter, they will compete at the same place on the same day. That is something not a lot of sports offer.”

Of course, there are those who simply like to watch the races.

“There are a lot of people out here who just love to watch the jumping,” Farmer said.

Farmer said the park offers free admission to the public. To race at the park, athletes must obtain a USA BMX license, which is $45 per year. The local races held at the track also have a $10 entry fee per race. Farmer said the license is valid at any BMX park in the country.