Fernley's McElroy is in X Games

PHILADELPHIA -- Fernley resident Drake McElroy will be participating in X Games VIII August 15-19 in Philaldelphia.

It will mark the first time he has participated in the event. McElroy will be competing in the Freestyle Moto X competition.

The X Games showcases 300 of the world's best action sports athletes competing in a variety of sports events for medals and more than $1 million in total prize money. In its first year as X Games host, Philadelphia drew 235,000 spectators during X Games VII last year.

As one of the hottest young riders, McElroy's huge extension and smooth style has drawn eyes from some of the sport's originators. He qualified as a wild card with his impressive finishes in competition so far this season.

McElroy said he hopes to have a bright future in the sport and at his first X Games, is a serious medal threat to the veterans of the X Games.

While the primary venue for X Games VIII will be the First Union Complex, there are three competitions taking place at sites around the city and state on previous days. Skateboard Street and Wakeboarding will take place August 10-13 at City Hall and on the Schuylkill River, respectively. Downhill BMX will once again be held at Woodward Camp, the world's premier action sports camp, on August 10 and 11 in Woodward, Penn., near State College.

ESPN, ESPN2 and ABC Sports will combine to televise more than 25 hours of X Games VIII coverage starting August 17, while ESPN International will distribute the games worldwide. In addition, EXPN.com, will offer extensive coverage, including

streaming video from the X Games.

For more information on the ESPN X Games, log on to www.expn.com