A world-class extreme sports competition will make its thrilling debut in Shanghai this June. According to the event organizers on the 14th, the Kia World Extreme Sports Games will attract nearly 200 top extreme athletes from over 30 countries and regions to compete in China.
The World Extreme Sports Games originated as Asia’s largest extreme sports event. Having been held in Shanghai for six years, this year the competition is elevated to a global level. Compared to last year, the event has undergone a comprehensive upgrade — the number of competition disciplines has increased from three main tracks and eight events to five major tracks and eleven official competitions. In addition to the existing inline skating, skateboarding, and BMX biking, new events such as speed climbing and freestyle motocross high jump have been added. The prize money has also surged to $260,000, marking a 60% increase.
From June 9 to 12 this year, at the Jiangwan Sports Center in Shanghai’s Yangpu District, the Creative Valley, numerous extreme sports stars will reunite in Shanghai to challenge themselves. Vince Byron, the BMX double champion who shone brightly last year by winning both the vert ramp and jump events, will return. He will compete alongside fellow top athletes Chad Kagy and Steven McCann. The skateboarding lineup is equally impressive, featuring seasoned medalists Andy MacDonald and Pierre-Luc Gagnon, as well as rising star Tom Schaar, the 13-year-old gold medalist in last year’s vert jump event. In inline skating, the legendary Japanese skater Kozō Shinji, revered by Asian fans, is also set to appear. Meanwhile, the newly added freestyle motocross event welcomes internationally renowned high jumper Tommy Claus. Speed climbing, one of today’s most iconic extreme sports, is also a category where Chinese athletes have the best chance to win medals.
Since 2007, the event has attracted nearly 330,000 spectators. This year, in addition to the heart-pounding extreme competitions, fans attending the event will also get to experience a vibrant carnival atmosphere. The venue will feature interactive zones and a variety of exciting entertainment performances, including high-energy DJ sets, street dance shows, and live rock band performances. The event also offers interactive activities for those eager to try their hand at extreme sports, such as guided climbing trials, fun sports competitions, and gift giveaways, all led by professional coaches.