BMX World Cup Set For Queensland

The ‘Urban Sport Fest,’ a three-day festival with world class Freestyle BMX, is set for Queensland in early December.

Sanctioned by the world cycling governing body, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the event is set to display top international competitors including Queensland local and Olympic Games gold medallist, Logan Martin.

With 150 of the world’s best riders headed for the Gold Coast, the UCI Freestyle BMX world cup event is also championing equal pay for male and female competitors.

In an interview with the ABC, Queensland born BMX rider, Natalya Diehm, said it would be the first-time women would be offered the same prize money as men in the sport.

“This is just going to enable us to grow as females in the sport – I’ve got no words,” Diehm said.

‘Urban Sport Fest’ founder from Evolve Sports, Matt Burgess, said the event is a “festival of firsts for the Gold Coast and Australia.”

“Our connection between the community these sports represent, and the Olympic podium are what distinguish Urban Sport Fest from other action sports exhibitions.

“It is going to be a vibrant melting pot of entertainment combining leisurely viewing through to adrenaline pulsating fun – something we know the Gold Coast will love,” Burgess said.

Endorsed by the Queensland government, tourism and sport minister, Stirling Hinchliffe, said the Urban Sport Fest is an opportunity to promote Queensland’s facilities and BMX talent.

“This is a terrific example of the sporting events Queensland can attract on the runway to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Hinchcliffe said.

“Events like Urban Sport Fest bring competitors and spectators to the Gold Coast who contribute to the local visitor economy and support jobs,” he said.

Held at the Gold Coast Sports & Leisure Centre, 9-11 December, the showcase is set to be headlined alongside a curated music festival.

The announcement comes after the Gold Coast opened its first competition BMX freestyle park in May.