only global BMX Supercross World Cup series, which includes events in South Africa, Netherlands, United Kingdom, and the United States. In addition, GSX Events is working to develop a BMX Supercross series in the U.S. in an effort to expand the sport’s overall presence that coincides with BMX racing’s second Olympic appearance during the 2012 London Games.
“The UCI BMX Supercross World Cup is the leading international BMX event series and Octagon’s expertise in Olympics and action sports will greatly aid our efforts to promote and market the sport,” said Johan Lindstrom, founder and CEO of Global SX Events. “We are committed to advancing the sport of BMX racing all over the world and we believe that Octagon’s global resources will enhance this next phase of international growth.”
The UCI BMX Supercross World Cup, presented by Swatch, showcases the very best riders on the most demanding and spectacular BMX tracks ever developed. Introduced by UCI in 2003, the BMX Supercross World Cup has revitalized BMX on an international level and serves as the main qualification events for the Olympic Games. The 2011 season kicked off last month in South Africa and continues this weekend in the Netherlands. Later this summer, the third stop on the five event series will be held on the Olympic BMX track in London, which will also serve as the official test event for the 2012 Olympics.
BMX racing is commanding a growing international audience, especially among the 14 to 30- year-old male demographic. Supercross World Cup events are broadcast on 69 TV channels around the world and reach a global audience of 4.2 million. GSX Events and Octagon will work together to capitalize on the increasing fan interest and growing visibility to build momentum with added sponsorship support and media coverage throughout Europe, Asia, Latin America, Middles East and the U.S. in advance of the 2012 Olympic Games.
“I am excited about the combined efforts to help grow BMX and bring more visibility to the sport,” said Donny “dR” Robinson, the 2008 Olympic bronze medalist who is also represented by Octagon. “I am looking forward to the opportunities this partnership will create and am willing to do my part to help promote BMX.”
The 2011 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup series schedule includes the following events:
• April 8-9 Round 1 Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
• May 27-28 Round 2 Papendal, Netherlands
• August 19-20 Round 3 London, Great Britain
• September 16-17 Round 4 Sarasota, FL, USA
• September 30/October 1 Round 5 Chula Vista, CA, USA