European athletes showed up in force at the 2000 summer X Games in San Francisco. They dominated competitions. In some cases, like the bicycle flatland competition, European athletes ruled the podium, finishing first, second, AND third! There is no lack of talent coming from their continent! Expect to see a load of new European talent at the 2001 summer X Games in Philadelphia. Why? ESPN is creating yet another event to give European up-and-comers a shot at the big time!

Bucky going big at B3 in Anaheim, CA.

Barcelona, Spain, will host the first annual European X Games Qualifier from July 20-22, 2001. European athletes will flock to the Barcelona Pier, an insanely beautiful beachfront site, for three days of solid competition. Skateboarders, bicycle stunt riders, in liners and wakeboarders will be vying for a spot from one of nine sport categories to the 2001 X Games. You can expect to see former X Games medallists tested by their own countrymen.

Rune ruling.

In addition, expect to see some big names on-site for the nightly vert jam sessions.

ESPN is expecting crowds of nearly 15,000 people per day; all will be scrambling under the sizzling Mediterranean sun for a better view of the action! We've got our flights booked, but if you can't hang out with us on-site, be sure to follow the action and telecast coverage online at: EuropeanXgames.com.

Jamie Bestwick charged no-handed for first, but took second.

What's happening RIGHT NOW? The buzz is already spreading throughout Europe as the Tony Hawk tour swings by London, Paris, and Frankfurt this week. X Games Gold medallist Bucky Lasek, bike legend Mat Hoffman, X today host and rider Rick Thorne, and the Birdman himself are prepping the crowds for what promises to me an unforgettable summer for European action sports!

   Send to a friend  | Submit your photo or video  | Top Rated Photos