Dubai X games

[sk8norcal]

NEXT STOP: DUBAI

CARSON, Calif. -- You don't need to strike oil to get a hefty payday in Dubai. All you have to do is know how to skateboard or ride a BMX bike.

The record $2.5 million Dubai X Games World Cup will make its debut Dec. 11-13 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

ESPN and Dubai Event Management Corp. have signed a five-year deal to host the event that boasts the largest overall purse in action sports history. X Games 14 that wrapped up Sunday had a purse of $1.625 million.

Richard Attias, CEO of the DEMC, cited the age demographics and cultural aspects of the population as a reason the X Games will succeed in Dubai. "Dubai is really the united nations," he said. "It's a very friendly environment.

"Twenty-six percent of the population is under 18; 53% is ... 20-40 years old, so there is a need."

Winter Olympic gold medalist (halfpipe) and eight-time X Games gold medalist (skateboarding and snowboarding) Shaun White believes the expansion will contribute to the sport's growth.

"This allows skateboarders to have a goal and will inspire more people to start to skateboard," he said.

By Victoria Sun

[sk8norcal]

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