X Games Action Sports Show: Defying Gravity

Twentynine Palms -- On an unexpected rainy day in Twentynine Palms, not even the dreary weather could stop the roaring cheers of Combat Center residents as they watched extreme sports athletes brighten their day through gravity-defying tricks.

Marine Corps Community Services hosted the X Games Action Sports Show at the Marine Corps Exchange aboard the installation, September 9th, 2017, in which professional skaters and BMX, bicycle motocross, riders performed their most technical tricks to provide entertainment for Combat Center patrons.

MCCS hosts many events throughout the year focused on improving the morale of Marines, sailors and their families.

The X Games is an extreme sports competition presented bi-annually by ESPN, Entertainment and Sports Programming Network, where athletes compete for medals, as well as money and prizes. The action sports show was a small variation of the X Games, which gave viewers a taste of what the athletes can do.

“I thought it was a great idea,” said Billy Marks, professional skater. “When I was asked to participate, I didn’t even have to think about it.

The X Games Action Sports Show opened with an exhibition introducing each of the extreme sports athletes. Shortly after, a volunteer was called from the crowd to be jumped over by BMX rider, Dustin McCarty. The volunteer was asked to stand atop a vert ramp with his arms spread while McCarty flew over him by mere inches.

The exhibition wrapped up with a plethora of backflips and aerial acrobatics, followed by a much awaited meet and greet, during which Combat Center patrons could meet the X Games medalists and ask questions.

The action sports show also included a DJ performing live, the giveaway of signed skateboards and bikes, a Japanese comfort food truck, and beer alongside Budweiser representatives.

“It was such a privilege to be able to come out here and perform for the service members and their families.” said Jared Eberwein, professional BMX rider.