The Kootenai County Fairgrounds in Coeur d’Alene will transform into a high-octane racing venue this Friday and Saturday as MRP Racing presents its annual Arenacross and Freestyle competition. The event, marking nearly three decades of continuous operation in North Idaho, will draw an estimated 200-plus riders competing across multiple age groups and skill levels. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. both evenings, with racing action beginning at 7 p.m.
About the Arenacross Format
Arenacross racing pits skilled motocross competitors against indoor-arena courses featuring dirt obstacles, technical jumps, and berms that demand precision and speed. Chaun McAlister, organizer of the event and owner of Big 4 Motorsports, described the racing format as action-packed and physically demanding. “It’s all dirt obstacles. There’s going to be a lot of bar banging and close quarter racing,” McAlister noted.
The professional division carries a $10,000 prize purse, with custom trophies awarded to winners across all classes. The event attracts riders from throughout the Panhandle and surrounding regions, giving local and regional competitors a showcase opportunity. “There’s a lot of really good riders in this area. They get a chance to showcase what they’ve been talking about all year long,” McAlister said.
Multiple Racing Classes and Youth Participation
The Arenacross event accommodates riders from the youngest participants to seasoned professionals. The smallest competitor class welcomes riders ages 0–6 years old, with documented instances of 3-year-old riders competing in previous events. This inclusivity has made the event a destination for families seeking grassroots motocross exposure and competition.
Pre-entry registrations have remained robust, indicating strong community interest. Bentley Karst of Athol was among competitors who participated in the 65CC race class at a prior MRP Arenacross event, representing the depth of local talent competing annually.
Freestyle Racing and the 75-Foot Ramp
The weekend card also includes freestyle ramp racing, featuring a towering 75-foot freestyle ramp that showcases aerial tricks and stunts. This high-flying segment adds spectacle and variety to the event schedule, appealing to fans seeking different forms of motocross entertainment.
Ticket Pricing and Upcoming Endurocross Event
General admission pricing is set at $25 for ages 13 and above, with children ages 4–12 admitted for $20. Children under age 4 receive complimentary entry.
MRP Racing also has scheduled an Endurocross event for July 24–25, featuring a different racing format with natural and constructed obstacles including rocks and wooden ramps. That event will likewise take place at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds.
A Nearly 30-Year Tradition in Coeur d’Alene
This weekend’s event marks the 29th consecutive year the Arenacross competition has been held in Coeur d’Alene, underscoring the event’s deep roots in the local community. Organizers are planning for a 30th-anniversary edition next year, cementing the event’s status as a fixture of North Idaho motorsports culture.
The fairgrounds location provides a suitable venue for hosting the large field of competitors and spectators, and the event’s longevity speaks to sustained regional interest in grassroots motocross racing. For Coeur d’Alene and surrounding Kootenai County communities, the weekend races represent an opportunity to support local motorsports talent and experience high-energy competition without traveling far from home.
What Comes Next
Riders and spectators interested in attending should plan to arrive by 5:30 p.m. to secure parking and seating. The Arenacross and Freestyle event runs Friday and Saturday evenings. For additional details regarding competitor registration, merchandise, or camping options during the fairgrounds event, attendees are encouraged to contact MRP Racing or Big 4 Motorsports directly.