My Story with AME Minicross and Moving Forward by David Villa

What is AME Minicross

AME Minicross is a Southern California youth and amateur motocross organization focused on family-friendly racing. They run minicycle and electric bike events for all ages and skill levels, from toddlers on Strider bikes to experienced riders on 65cc, 85cc, and pit bikes. Weekly events and summer series like “Hot Summer Nights” are held at major SoCal venues including Glen Helen Raceway and Perris Raceway. Races are typically 3laps for a heat race and 7-lap mains for gas-powered minis on custom stadium-cross tracks.

At AME Minicross for a period of time, I was one of two photographers regularly at AME Minicross Thursday Night events at Glen Helen Raceway. The other was Corbin Wayne Foundation, run by Tatum Brownfield. Tatum does important work in the off-road community promoting safety and giving away helmets in memory of her son. We would both be at the track — her supporting families, and me running my business photographing riders from the paddock to trackside.

What Happened

On June 20, 2026, while covering Round 1 of AME Hot Summer Nights at Perris Raceway, I was told I could no longer return or take photos at any AME Minicross events. On June 20, 2026, I was also informed I was not allowed back with my camera to Thursday Night events.

When I shared this news on Instagram, many families were shocked. After that, I noticed I was blocked by Corbin Wayne Foundation’s account. I later saw a post from her stating that photos were no longer free and she would be charging 150 and that a donation to the foundation would be required for AME event photos as well.

My Perspective

I am an autistic motorsports photographer. This is my profession and how I make a living. My goal has always been to document these events, help promote AME Minicross and the venues, and provide families with professional images of their riders. I respect the work Corbin Wayne Foundation does for safety in the community. My intent was never to take from anyone — only to do my job and support the sport.

Where Things Stand

As of today, I am still working to return to AME Minicross at Glen Helen Raceway. I remain committed to the moto community and to documenting the sport with respect for riders, families, and the organizations that make racing possible.