Bridgeport High School Sophomore Makes Big Impression on Rock Bouncing Racing Circuit
By Trina Runner on November 23, 2014 via Connect-Bridgeport.com
Some may say Sydney Rockwell has racing in her genes. After all, her dad, A.J. Rockwell is a veteran racer of drag bikes and side-by-sides and owns an off-road park in Philippi. But the 15-year-old Bridgeport High School Sophomore is carving out a unique racing opportunity for herself and, in her first Rock Bouncing race, she proved to be quite the contender.
For those unfamiliar with the new sport, Rock Bouncing involves racing specialized vehicles at high speeds across steep trails full of 
boulders. What started off as a freestyle sport grew into popularity through YouTube and developed into a competitive sport with large cash prizes. The oversized buggies are made to withstand repeated rollovers and designed to keep working while vertical, sideways or even upside down.
boulders. What started off as a freestyle sport grew into popularity through YouTube and developed into a competitive sport with large cash prizes. The oversized buggies are made to withstand repeated rollovers and designed to keep working while vertical, sideways or even upside down.
Rockwell traveled to Bedford, Kentucky for her inaugural race. The Boo Bash is a Bounty Hill competition, with winnings that exceed $5000. Her buggy, known as “Da Situation,” was created for speed and intensity. With 525 hp, the Chevy Ramjet 502 engine did not disappoint on the course. Traveling mid-air up a steep mountain proved to be exhilarating to Rockwell, who placed 25th in the race.
“It was such a fun experience,” said Rockwell. “The adrenaline rush was amazing and I can’t wait to race again.”
After finishing the race in just under 78 seconds, Rockwell now has an impressive online presence on madram11, busted knuckles, and SRRS Web sites.
“I will continue to improve my time before my next race in April,” said Rockwell. “I am always looking for ways to challenge myself and Rock Bouncing definitely does that.”
Typically a southern sport, Rock Bouncing will require traveling for competitions and extensive training safety as well.
“We have to use a fire suit, a neck brace, a helmet, safety harnesses and have two fire extinguishers on hand,” said Rockwell.
The sport is finding a huge following, called the “rock-arazzi” and is showcased both online and at the racing sites. The failed attempts can be as entertaining as the wins in the sport, which boasts a powerful combination of horsepower, torque and traction.
“Basically, you focus on getting to the top of the mountain as fast as you can while maneuvering around boulders and notched out dirt,” said Rockwell. “It’s so much fun!”
