Dubai X-Fighters champion Levi Sherwood out to defend crown

Dubai: Defending world champion Levi Sherwood is certain of some tough competition as he sets his sights on a Dubai double during the second round of the 2013 Red Bull X-Fighters international freestyle motocross tour in Downtown Dubai on Friday (8pm).

“My priority in Dubai is a top-three podium finish. But I am aware of the challenges that lie ahead,” Sherwood told media at the pre-event conference on Thursday.

Sherwood has been a revelation since making his freestyle motocross (FMX) debut in 2010 — including winning in Dubai last year — but this season’s opening round in Mexico was won by Frenchman Thomas Pages, leaving Sherwood in third for the first time in his career.

Despite his success, Sherwood was unable to compete through much of 2011 after a crash left him nursing injuries to his wrist, liver, lung, kidney and back.

“I spend a lot of time on my bike, but with that comes injuries. I grew up with this so I am quite used to it by now. It’s a small price to pay for getting the opportunity to pursue my passion for FMX in all these great cities we visit on the tour,” Sherwood said.

“I ride my bike five times a week for practice and this is what fuels my performance,” the 21-year-old KTM SX 250 rider added.

Despite the injuries, the New Zealander, nicknamed the “Rubber Kid”, bounced back by kicking off 2012 in style with a first win in Dubai that eventually helped him to the overall crown by the end of the year in Sydney.

Alberto Chahoud, Area Communication Manager for Red Bull, said: “It’s going to be very competitive [in Dubai], especially after Pages won in Mexico last month. The difference between the riders has narrowed over such a short period of time.”

Sherwood and Pages will be joined by other famous riders such as former Dubai winner Dany Torres, Josh Sheehan, Mat Rebeaud and Daisuke Suzuki.

The event is supported by Du and the company’s Executive Vice President, Brand and Communications, Hala Badri said: “We believe the synergy that exists at events such as this will help us build a legacy as a most sought-after destination.”

The Red Bull X-Fighters will be held from 8pm on Friday at Mohammad Bin Rashid Boulevard next to the Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai.