First Union Center Welcomes ESPN X Games Da Silva looks to win her sixth X Games gold

PHILADELPHIA, PA. - The already underway 2001 ESPN X Games kick off competition at their primary venue at the First Union Complex today in Philadelphia.

The free-to-the public event at the First Union Complex features competition in skateboarding, BMX biking, bicycle stunt racing, speed climbing, and in line skating. The First Union Center has been transformed into an action-sports arena, with two half-pipes and a dirt course for the BMX bikers. Four events will begin at the Complex tomorrow - Aggressive In Line, Bicycle Stunt, MotoX, and Skateboarding. The events kick off at 10:00 a.m., and will run through 9:00 p.m, while the Interactive Village and live local and national bands promise to keep the crowd excited into the late Philadelphia night.

Fabiola da Silva is one of the athletes to watch in tomorrow's action. She won both last year's Aggressive In Line Vert and Park competitions. Da Silva has garnered five career X Games gold medals. This year da Silva is scheduled to defend both titles with tomorrow's Vert competition beginning at 11 a.m. At 17, two-time defending Freestyle MotoX champion Travis Pastrana is still one of the youngest competitors in his sport as he attempts to ward off what should be worthy competition from Tommy Clowers, Brian Deegan and other superstars. The Freestyle MotoX competition begins at 10:00 a.m. The X Games continue through August 22 in Philadelphia, with television coverage beginning Saturday, August 18 on ABC. The free event features competitions in aggressive in-line skating, skateboarding, bicycle stunt, street luge, speedclimbing, motox and wakeboarding. More information, including schedules and results, can be found at www.expn.com.

Contact: ESPN X Games Press Office, 267-570-1669 For more information or to download photos, go to www.espneventmedia.com

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