The mega stars of supercross have arrived in Sydney ahead of an action-packed weekend at Qudos Bank Arena, where four-time supercross champion Ryan Villopoto will face off with Australian legend and two-time supercross champion Chad Reed at the 2016 AUS-X Open.
The duo had their Sydney fix over the last couple days, checking out some of the iconic Sydney landmarks such as the harbor bridge, along with a quick surf lesson at the famed Manly Beach.
The riders then took to the track for the very first time today, completing warm up and press day before the main events kick off on both Saturday and Sunday night.
Four-time champ Villopoto admits there are some nerves heading in, however once again displayed his incredible pace in press day keeping ahead of the favourites Chad Reed and Cooper Webb for the majority.
“Yeah look, I am a little nervous – it’s been two years since I have lined up behind a gate and raced,” said Villopoto. “I’m stoked to be here in Australia though – a race like this doesn’t come along often [with not a lot of pressure and a great atmosphere], so I’m excited to get underway and put on a show for the fans!”
Reed says despite Villopoto’s retirement in 2015, he’ll never count out a guy with his credentials. “I don’t care that he has been off for that long, I’ll never count a guy like that out,” said Reedy. “We’ve got Cooper [Webb] over too, who’s set to take over the world in the coming years, plus all the other incredible talent – this is going to be an insane event.
“The fact we have RV out here when every brand and promoter in the USA is trying to do the same however to no avail is really a massive achievement. We’ve managed to lure him to Australia, and I’m ready to do battle with him.”
The AUS-X Open is the largest and most prestigious action sports event in the Southern Hemisphere. An international supercross exclusive will run alongside the FMX ‘Best Trick’ competition, creating an absolutely unmissable experience that the whole family can enjoy.
The AUS-X Open kicks off at Qudos Bank Arena (formerly AllPhones) on November 12 & 13. Tickets start at $40 and are selling fast, get your tickets now via Ticketek, or this link.
