Boardman’s Own Dirt Dynamo: Local Rider Builds Dream Tracks from Columbia River Clay

In the dusty shadows of the Columbia River’s towering wind turbines, a different kind of horsepower is making noise. Here in Boardman, a passion for motocross isn’t just about riding—it’s about shaping the very earth. Local enthusiast and entrepreneur, Jamie Cox, has transformed a lifelong love for two wheels into a thriving venture: custom motocross track construction.

“It started right here, riding the hills and finding lines where most people just saw sagebrush,” Cox says, gesturing toward the expansive landscape. What began as sculpting personal practice jumps on family land has evolved into a sought-after business, crafting challenging and safe circuits for riders across Eastern Oregon.

Cox’s operation is a hands-on affair, utilizing local materials and an intuitive understanding of soil composition, a skill honed in Morrow County’s unique terrain. He doesn’t just move dirt; he engineers flow, building rhythm sections, perfectly pitched tabletops, and berms that can handle everything from a kid’s first 50cc bike to a pro’s factory machine.

For Boardman, a community deeply connected to agriculture and outdoor recreation, Cox’s work hits close to home. He’s building more than tracks; he’s creating community hubs. “It’s about giving families a place to ride together safely,” he explains. His projects have sparked renewed interest in local motocross, with neighbors now collaborating to host casual practice days and foster the next generation of riders.

From the echoes of revving engines in Boardman’s backcountry to new tracks rising in Umatilla and Heppner, Cox is literally building the foundation for Eastern Oregon’s dirt bike culture. His story is a testament to turning the soil you know into the dream you live, proving that sometimes, the best path forward is one you carve yourself.