Get ready for the masters!

Bike enthusiasts from around the world already know and love the Masters of Dirt, an event which showcases the incredible talents of the world’s best Freestyle Motocross (FMX) riders. But even if you’ve never been near a bike in your life, you’re bound to be bowled over by the unbelievable, sky-high stunts that play out before you during the MOD show. It’s an adrenaline-packed event that has wowed audiences the world over, and it’s set to do the same thing here this weekend.

The international show is being brought over by Standing Ovations, the company which recently also produced the Shaolin Monks and Swan Lake on Ice. Now this show, a combination of FMX, BMX, quad and mini bike stunts, promises to be their most outrageous yet, and tonnes of soil will transform the MFCC into a completely original venue for the event.

Sarah Pace, a representative for the company, explained: “The MOD is a cult show in many parts of the world. Audiences love the fact that international riders come together to show off what they do best: amazing stunts and mid-air tricks in a three-hour long set that is backed up by great music and a party atmosphere. It’s the sort of show that the whole family can enjoy together, and there are different aspects to it to keep everyone entertained.”

Georg Fechter, the show’s Austrian creator, explains how Masters of Dirt has become an international phenomenon: “Having started quite small the show has grown and grown. Now audiences from all over the world look forward to the riders’ arrivals and massive arenas sell-out completely. The stunts are impressive and the atmosphere is great as everyone wait to see what great trick will be performed next and how far the riders will take it.

“Malta is lucky because we have a really great show lined up for you! For our first time there we will be performing some of our favourite stunts with many of our best riders – including gold-medallist Ronnie Renner and a 300kg quad bike that will be flying through the sky as well. It will be a show to remember and we’re looking forward to being there, so don’t miss it!”

Jason Moraity, originally from South Africa, is one of the world’s pioneering FMX riders and he now works as the show’s rider coordinator while also judging FMX competitions all over the world. He’ll also be travelling to Malta to judge the show during its run.

“Masters of Dirt really is an incredible show, and it has built up an amazing fan base,” Mr Moriaty explained. “The sport first arose from a racing background – following in the footsteps of motocross which developed in the 1980s when riders grew frustrated with the rigidity of old-school racing practices. They wanted to inject some fun into things, and that’s what they did. FMX isn’t about racing, it’s about being out with your buddies as you develop new stunts and each try to go one better than the rider before. It’s all about stretching the boundaries of what can be done today to create something even more impressive tomorrow. This will be an impressive first for Malta.”

To mark the occasion, Standing Ovations has also helped to organise Malta’s First Bikers’ Fair, a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to purchase bike-related merchandise. Entrance to the event is free and it will take place tomorrow between 6 and 10 p.m., Saturday between 4 and 10 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. till 8 p.m.

On Sunday morning, from 9 a.m. onwards and in addition to the bikers’ fair, Standing Ovations has invited all of Malta’s bikers to bring their bike to Malta’s first ever Bikers’ Festival. During the event local bikers will gather at the venue and will be provided with VIP parking spots. Characteristic sounds and live music will be provided by some of Malta’s best-loved rock bands and DJs, while the Masters of Dirt riders and the Fire Girls (UK) will also be in attendance, hotting things up along the way and creating the ultimate bikers’ atmosphere for the first time ever!

And as an added extra, Standing Ovations has combined with Liquorish, the Malta Motocross Federation and the ASM, to give one lucky rider the opportunity of a lifetime – the chance to better their training at an overseas FMX school. The competition is open to BMX, FMX and quad-bike riders and will take place on the tracks in Ta’ Qali and St Andrews. A panel of judges, including riders from the Masters of Dirt, will evaluate local riders based on their technique in each of the three sectors. The finalist from each category will then be present on Liquorish and viewers will be able to vote for their favourite live on air. The winner will be announced on Liquorish.

Doors to the Masters of Dirt open one-and-a-half hours before the event for a fun-packed Pit Party that gives audience members the chance to mingle with the riders, take photographs and get into the unique spirit of the show.

“It’s just another aspect of the show that is guaranteed to ensure our guests have a great time,” added Ms Pace. “We’re sure they won’t forget the Masters of Dirt in a hurry!”

Both seating and standing areas are available with prices starting from €29. For further information about ticket options or the FMX competition, or to book online visit: www.masterofdirtinmalta.com, e-mail info@standingovations.com.mt or call 7955 7988. For Gozo box office call 2155 8266 or 7981 5541. Tickets are also available from: Embassy Cinemas (Valletta), TriStar Travel Ltd (Msida), MFCC Millennium Stand (Ta’ Qali) and Gozo booking office (Sannat).