X-Games – COTA, Austin, TX – June 4th thru 7th 2015 -

By Dave Rackley

AUSTIN – Media folks were given a behind the scenes preview for the X-Games on 5/28/2015. The event began with a panel discussion in Circuit of the Americas’ Velocity Lounge, located in the main grandstands. On the panel (L-R) were Jason Dial, President and CEO of COTA; Tim Reed, Vice President, X-Games; Rich Bigge, Director, Competitions & Logistics, X-Games; and Chase Hawk, BMX Gold Medalist, X-Games 2014.

After the Q&A, Rich Bigge took us on a tour of the event facilities, all of which are in construction phase. When asked if things were on schedule, Rich replied, “the recent rain set us back a little, but we will be on track by Sunday afternoon. Our construction crew is expert at building to our specifications.” The X-Games organizers took to heart the feedback from last year’s fans. The event venues are closer together and are situated for great viewing. There will be no “bad seats” in the house.

The park and street concrete is going in between the grandstands and the F1 paddock – think raceway starting line. The big air towers and ramps and vert half-pipe are going in west of the tower. The rally car and truck raceway is being constructed east of the tower. BMX dirt events will be immediately west of the Galleria entrance. Flat track racing is going in about a mile northwest of the main COTA facility.

Daily music events will take place at the 360 Amphitheater. The headlining acts, Metallica and Nicki Manaj, will perform at the Super Stage, which will be located track-side in the premium RV park at the northeast side of COTA. The audience will be located on the hillside in the track infield.

All in all, an exciting X-Games week is well underway. It should be a great time for athletes, bands, and fans.

Photos by: Dave Rackley