Young motocross competitors Mackynley Bendykowski, 6, Shea Bendykowski, 8, and Caleb Battle, 7, are now being sponsored by Escondido Cycle Center (ECC).

The team, known as the ‘Killer Bees,’ use bikes that include a Honda 50cc, KTM 50cc, KTM 65cc and Kawasaki KX65. The sponsorship helps cover costs associated with the sport and comes with an incentive package: get good grades and continue to be a part of the program.

Jim Hawkins, general manager of Escondido Cycle Center, believes that academics are important.

"We are here to give back to the community and support our Killer Bees with their academics," he said. "Kids need to stay in school and work hard for good grades; riding comes second."

The kids say they are excited to race for Escondido Cycle Center (ECC) and the parents are appreciative of the support and Advertisement

Shriners Hospital for Children emphasis on educational achievement.

Keith Battle said it will be nice to be part of a team where son Caleb can train with kids his own age and have a trained staff to provide mechanic and parts support.

"All of the parents are very pleased with Escondido Cycle Center for stepping forward and supporting the Killer Bees," Battle said. "The emphasis on academics is important; the kids are learning that motocross, at least for now, is just a fun sport. Education is important for their future."

Mike Bendykowski, father of Shea and Mackynley, agreed: "Having two kids in the sport is very expensive, but with the support from Jim and the gang at ECC it brings costs way down. Being part of the team is a great feeling for both the kids and parents."