Ridgefield, CT - Dr. Christopher Mascetta, DC, CCSP, founder of Ridgefield Chiropractic & Wellness Center, has been busy helping Ridgefield resident, Matt Hammer prepare for the ride of his life.
Eighteen-year old Hammer will be competing at the upcoming Red Bull AMA Amateur National Motocross Championships, the largest, amateur Motocross race in the United States. Qualifying for this event is a tremendous accomplishment in itself as it attracts top amateur riders from across the country. “Not only did Matt qualify for the second time in his career, but he has the potential of bringing home a national title,” explained Dr. Mascetta.
This year's race takes place July 29th to August 4th at country singer Loretta Lynn's ranch in Hurricane Mills, TN and is produced by MX Sports, Inc. Matt will compete in three 'Motos' throughout the week.
Hammer started riding at age three and started racing Motocross at eight-years old. “My dad was an expert racer when the sport was still young. He introduced me to the sport and Motocross racing has been my passion since I was a kid,” said Hammer.
Dr. Mascetta's lifelong love of Motocross racing and the fact that he is a Board Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician make him well-suited to assist Hammer in preparing for this prestigious race. Mascetta raced Motocross throughout his childhood and into his 20s. “I always knew that I wasn't going to make it as a professional rider myself, but I did know that I could still be involved with motocross in other ways. Becoming involved as a chiropractor was a natural choice,” Mascetta said.
Since 2008, Mascetta has set up at regional Motocross tracks offering his chiropractic services. He's assisted renowned Motocross chiropractor, Dr. Steve Navarro of Brea, California in treating top riders and teams at several professional national races. “I was familiar with Matt from being at the tracks. When I found out he was a Ridgefield resident, we were able to connect and things just clicked. We have a great working relationship,” Mascetta said.
It is Hammer's goal to turn Professional in August, at which point Mascetta will accompany him to national competitions. “The race in Tennessee is another stepping stone for going pro. If I do well there, I get noticed. Recognition at this race makes it easier to obtain a professional license,” Hammer said.
Dr. Mascetta is looking forward to working with Matt throughout his professional career. “Matt is an extremely talented rider who I know will achieve very impressive results at the pro level right from the start.” Mascetta intends to continue his professional relationship with Dr. Navarro as well. “Having the opportunity to work with the elite riders and teams in motocross is a dream come true,” he shared.
“It's important that Matt stay well-adjusted and physically fit. Most people don't realize how demanding Motocross racing can be. For the rider, it's like trying to manage a
250-pound rocket ship, on a tight circuit with ruts, grooves and jumps. The body takes quite a pounding. Chiropractic care and muscle work helps reduce the risk of injury and enhance physical performance,” said Mascetta.
Dr. Mascetta recently ordered lab work to evaluate any vitamin, mineral or anti-oxidant deficiencies that may inhibit Matt’s training and endurance. The next step is to evaluate any food sensitivities. With this information, any known issues can be addressed with the proper nutritional supplements and dietary changes. “That's my job in working with Matt; to concentrate on getting him in top shape for each race. I'm honored to be working with Matt and helping him to achieve his dreams,” Mascetta said.
As a Board Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician, Mascetta can provide athletes, of all levels, with customized chiropractic and nutritional care so they can perform and compete at their highest possible level.
About Dr. Christopher C. Mascetta, DC, CCSP:
Dr. Mascetta is a Board Certified Chiropractic Physician through the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians. Dr. Mascetta has specialized training in the evaluation and treatment of sports related injuries, conditions and physical fitness. He has a firm understanding of the function of the body during movement from high-level athletics to everyday activities. He can help optimize athletic performance by applying an advanced understanding of musculoskeletal function and performance enhancement. His goals as a sports chiropractor are to provide faster recovery from injury, preventative strategies and guidance in sports nutrition.