This is our 14 year old son. He begged from the age of 6 to be allowed to ride Moto. We managed to say no for another 4 years. Looking back on this decision I have no idea why we said no. I think it was some preconceived ideas about the cost and danger involved.
Yes it’s dangerous ! Yes it’s damn expensive! Yes it is really cold in Winter! Yes it’s really hot in Summer! Yes he is making friends for life! Yes he loves it!
Yesterday we were up at crazy O’clock to head out of town to a Motocross event. This is our weekend most weekends. I found myself wondering why we do it? Chances are he will never be number one. I have no idea what skills this is teaching him that he might use in the future as he has no idea what he wants to do. Are there other things I could be doing with tens of thousands of dollars a year?
There are days like yesterday when he comes off the track buzzing. Has great races and finishes with a podium and his body intact. Laughs with his mates and we all celebrate victories.
Then there are days when he crashes, things don’t go right, things get damaged and a body worn down. It’s not just sore muscles the next day but bruises too… I don’t know if I would get back on the bike after these days but he does…every time.
He is developing the virtues of resilience, courage, commitment, determination, perseverance, responsibility and self- discipline. Is that what sport is about- creating an avenue to develop strengths and weaknesses. If that is the case then yes it is worth it.
