WASHOUGAL, Wash. -- A motocross racer died after he crashed before a race Saturday.

Witnesses said Rocky Gesner, 18, hit a jump, lost control and landed on his side during practice.

Police said a LifeFlight helicopter was called in, but Gesner died before it reached the track.

Track workers said Gesner had been racing at the track for years. The races continued as scheduled after the crash.

Police said he was wearing a helmet and safety gear at the time of the accident.

Track workers said it's only the second death in 40 years.