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Monday, February 27, 2012
Moto freestyle Stars to perform in Sokolniki for the first time!
International Festival of accessible and elitist kinds of extreme sports, recreation, and tourism “EXTREMEX” – the largest event of such a format in Eastern Europe – to be held in Sokolniki Park on May 24-27, 2012. Within the festival a unique show program including moto freestyle, to take place in pavilion 4 of Sokolniki Exhibition and Convention Centre on May 26. Some workshop classes to be presented by the best Russian and foreign pro-riders. On the eve, Russia’s most titled moto freestyler, a member of the world’s largest snowboarding contests, Alexey Kolesnikov confirmed his participation in the event. He gave an exclusive blitz-interview with the Festival’s head manager, Denis Tsukanov.
Alexey, nice to see you! Please, tell me how did you come to motorcycling sport? In general, why did you decide to become a moto freestyler?
I started riding a BMX bike in Kolomna Master Club in 1997 and always wanted to become a motorcycle racer. I showed good results and since 1998 has been involved in motocross competitions, as well as contests for the Enduro and Rally Raids. From that time I liked big and beautiful jumps, and the viewers’ reaction. I’ve seen freestyle motocross is highly developed in America and Europe and I asked myself: “Why are we worse?!” And in 2005 I started doing freestyle. What kind of bike do you ride for training and competing at the moment?
My motorcycle is the YAMAHA YZ 250 (I think it is the most successful model for freestyle) and the YAMAHA YZ 450f (for motocross training). In your opinion, at what level is a motorsport in Russia now? Unfortunately, motorsport in our country is not growing as fast as we would like it. But all does not stand still! You performed at RedBullX-Fighter. How does it feel to be a member of the steepest tournament in freestyle motocross the world over? First of all, it is an honor; I fell to represent Russia at this event, which usually involves the world’s strongest sportsmen! Best moto freestylers – TOP-5 according to Alexey Kolesnikov. Nate Adams, Andre Villa, Travis Pastrana, Danny Torres, Jeremy Stennberg. What extreme sport are you still keen on in addition to motor sports? I love snowboard, bike, mini-bike, and snowmobile! Where do you usually train? And what’s your favorite trick? I usually train in a freestyle park in Kolomna, where I was born and grew up. When the weather is bad (in spring or autumn), I prefer training in Italy with my Italian friends – the DABOOT team. My favorite trick is UNDERFLIP! Recently, Moscow Government is quite focused on extreme sports. Sokolniki Park was chosen one of Moscow’s main sites to develop this direction. In addition, multiple objects are scheduled to open in 2012. What do you think about it? I think it’s great that the government is increasingly starting to pay attention to extreme sports. The more different locations for training are, the higher interest young people pay for sports studies. This is to help identify new athletes who are likely to show good results both in Russia and abroad. EXTREMEX Festival you plan to take part in, to be held in Sokolniki on May 24-27. Is the launch of this project is relevant to today’s Russia?
I’m sure the more similar events to be held, the more popular extreme sports to become. In my opinion, beginners and professional athletes will become more motivated looking at or participation in such shows. What are your plans for the current season? Which events do you plan to participate in more in addition to EXTREMEX Festival? This year I am going to learn some more new tricks! I also would like to build and develop new technical elements in my park. I plan to participate in several stages of the World Cup similar to last season RedBullKolesnikovFMX school. I am going to the EICMA 2012. Also, I plan to participate in many other projects and activities in Russia and in Europe. Thanks and regards to sponsors and friends.
I would like to THANK all my sponsors: ESTA, RedBull, YAMAHA, DC, xsr-moto, Kenny, Alpinistars, Liqui Moly, Alpina, and Union Fitness. And also my family and friends! And all the fans who support us at different events! THANK YOU! See you in Sokolniki!
Moto freestyle Stars to perform in Sokolniki for the first time!
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