The 2012 UCI BMX Supercross World Cup, being held in Abbotsford this weekend, will benefit from an additional $25,000 in financial support from the government of British Columbia.

Michael de Jong, MLA for Abbotsford West, made the announcement on behalf of Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. This funding is in addition to $12,500 the UCI BMX Supercross World Cup previously received from the provincial government.

It is the first time Abbotsford has hosted this event, which began Friday and concludes tonight. The Supercross World Cup is expected to attract up to several thousand local and out-of-town visitors. It is taking place at the newly upgraded BMX track at Abbotsford's Exhibition Park.

This is the first BMX World Cup event since the 2012 London Olympics and will see both men's and women's champions crowned. More than 200 athletes are in attendance and more than half are international competitors.

Quotes:

Michael de Jong, MLA for Abbotsford West -

"BMX is the kind of sport that demands top-notch skills, physical strength and a whole lot of guts. This event has attracted visitors to the region who will spend money locally, benefiting families and local businesses. Supporting the BMX World Cup is good value for taxpayers, and we're proud to be a part of it."

Quick Facts:

• The B.C. government has invested more than $1 billion in sport since 2001 and will provide more than $50 million in funding for sport this year.
• B.C. Olympian Tory Nyhaug, ranked fifth in the World Cup standings, will be competing. For a list of competitors, see: http://uciworldcupbmx.com/rider-lists/

Learn More:

UCI BMX Supercross Abbotsford: http://uciworldcupbmx.com/

Union Cycliste Internationale/International Cycling Union: http://www.uci.ch/templates/UCI/UCI8/layout.asp?MenuId=MTYzMDQ&LangId=1

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 208-4028 (cell)