The three-day long Christmas event will take place at the Virginia Horse Center from December 27-29, 2008 and kicks off on Saturday, December 27th with the 24th Annual President’s Cup - The state-vs-state competition, where Michigan will try to defend their 2007 title against top-ranked Florida, Illinois, Ohio and more than 20 other competitive states. The event is open to all rookie, novice, expert, girl, cruiser, and pro NBL riders who have earned a state ranking of #1-#15 within their state. Special Silver Cups will be awarded to all riders who make their respected main events. And speaking of Presidents, Ken Masters, who was recently named as the new NBL President, previously served as the Michigan State Commissioner and is excited to be a part of this great race. “It’s a one-of-a-kind event and it always adds a new level of comradery and friendly competition between the states. It’s my favorite race of the year and we are looking forward to our new venue in Lexington this year,” said Masters.
This will serve as Master’s first President’s Cup, taking over the reins from Bob Tedesco. Ken will attend the ‘Classic’ and have to gracefully watch his home state defend the President’s Cup title against a tough field. The race will be Bob Tedesco’s last race as Managing Director of the NBL and the change in leadership promises to inject new energy into the 35-year old league. “We are looking forward to a great Christmas with everyone and we’re excited about our plans for 2009 and beyond. With several new programs and plans in the works, we will continue to the tradition of hosting the best races and offering a wide variety of programs for all of our members,” said an enthusiastic Masters. “It is a true honor to follow in the footsteps of one of America’s legendary BMX founders, Mr. Bob Tedesco," he nostalgically adds.
The showcase event, the NBL Christmas Classic, takes the stage on Sunday, December 28th and Monday, December 29th and features full-blown National amateur racing. Riders, both male and female, from the age of four all the way up to 65 will be competing for valuable National series points and spectacular trophies and awards. As an extra Christmas bonus, UGP (Underground Products) will award prizes to the winners of the Open classes both days as part of the ’09 UGP Open Championship Series.
Check out all of the high-flyin’ BMX racing action at the Virginia Horse Center and watch the newest Olympic sport. Local attractions include the Historic Bridge, Stonewall Jackson House, Hunter's Raid Civil War Trail and the quirky Foamhenge. Visit their local website for more details at lexingtonvirginia.com. To find out more information about the race event including schedules and times, visit the NBL website at nbl.org.