FRIESES RUN WIDE OPEN AT NATIONALS

It has been another good summer of motocross racing for the Friese brothers of Cape Girardeau.

Vince, age 8, has been particularly impressive, finishing second in the recent American Motorcycle Association National Motocross Championships at Loretta Lynn's Ranch near Nashville, Tenn.

Competing in the 50cc 7-8-year-old class of the most prestigious amateur event in the country, Vince finished just out of the top spot and will be ranked No. 2 in the nation.

Max, 12, competed in the 80cc junior class at nationals and finished in 21st place.

"We were real proud of both of them," said their father, Doug. "Just to make it to nationals is quite an accomplishment."

That's certainly true because as many as 7,000 racers initially start out trying to make the national event each year and ultimately only 42 qualify in each division. To make it to nationals, both boys had to advance through regional qualifying.

The sons of Doug and Lisa Friese, Vince and Max have both been competing in motocross for several years, Vince starting out when he was 4 and Max starting out when he was 7.

"We have a lot of fun with it," said Doug. "It gives us an opportunity to spend time together. All the big events are really family oriented. It's a neat family sport."

Vince and Max have been aided by the fact their father set up a practice spot behind the family's house.

"They practice quite a bit," Doug said. "They really enjoy it, which is great."

Last year, Vince finished 10th in his age division at the big national meet while Max was 27th.

This year, in addition to finishing second at nationals, Vince also won a big event held at the Trans World Dome in St. Louis.

"He's had a great year," said Doug, who added that his youngest son will receive even stiffer competition next year. "This is his last year for this class. Next year he'll be moving up to a bigger bike and a different age group so he'll have to pick it up a level next year, but that's just like in any sport."

Doug acknowledged that motocross racing is an expensive proposition, with the cost of the bikes and travel. But because of the success Vince and Max have had over the last few years, the financial blow will be softened somewhat next year.

"We've actually been fortunate enough to pick up a sponsor for next year," explained Doug. "We've signed a sponsorship for one year with Power Sports, a large motorcycle shop in St. Louis. They're going to pick up a lot of things for the kids, so that will help us out a lot."