The FISE (International Festival of Extreme Sports) World Series made its way to the capital city for the second time and brought all the adrenaline-pumping excitement with it. Hundreds of athletes from all over the world converged Hawrelak Park with their bikes and skateboards, and competed in various extreme-sporting events.
Edmonton is the only North American stop on this world famous action-sport tour, making the experience special for Edmontonians. The series invites professionals, as well as amateurs, to compete in the festival’s events. Sports included: BMX, BMX flatland, mountain biking and skateboarding.
Local amateur athletes like David Bahry, found the opportunity to be part of such a renowned festival especially exciting. “It’s literally like meeting a movie star. We grew up watching these guys on videos, on Instagram, on YouTube and now we’re seeing them face to face. It’s a dream come true, ” said Bahry.
2017 is a monumental year for FISE, as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. It also marks the year when FISE sports became officially recognized by major federations in France, where the festival originated. The FISE World Series, though it started with humble beginnings and limited resources, has grown into the world’s largest action sports festival.
Although FISE has come a long way since its start in 1997, it has managed to hold onto something that sets itself a part from many other action-sport events: it is completely free to attend. Even the main event in Montpellier, France that attracted over 500 000 people last year, remains free of charge to enthusiastic spectators.
The festival will end its 2017 tour in Chengdu, China from November 3 to 5.
