Stunts leave fans head over wheels

DUBAI // Motocross stunt riders revved up some excitement for bike fans yesterday with a few tricks and somersaults ahead of the Red Bull X-Fighters 2011 World Tour on Friday.

Riders performed in front of the Burj Al Arab hotel ahead of the main event, the freestyle motocross championship, which takes place on Jumeirah beach at 8pm.

The American FMX rider Ronnie Renner, a multiple world record holder, and the Belgian rider Gilles Dejong are just two of the stars due to take part in the spectacular.

"It's a phenomenal setting," said Renner. "Jumping right in front of the sea is going to be a challenge for everyone because it's hard to predict where the wind will come from."

Around 15,000 fans are expected to turn out on the beach next to the Burj Al Arab, where the jumping session will take place.

Other leading FMX bikers include the American Nate Adams, Andre Villa, from Norway, Spain's Dany Torres and the world-renowned Australian rider Robbie Maddison.

The six FMX events in 2011 take place on four continents. After Dubai, the X-Fighters will move to Brasilia, in South America, on May 28, Rome on June 24, Madrid on July 15 and Warsaw on August 6.

The final show will be in Australia on September 17. Tickets can be bought in all Virgin Megastores across the UAE and at www.timeouttickets.com.

cmalek@thenational.ae