Las Vegas: $1 million at stake in Monster Energy Cup’s supercross showdown

The really big wheels will compete for really big bucks when supercross stars compete for $1 million in Las Vegas next month.

The Monster Energy Cup (which sounds more like a high-octane drink than a competition) is being billed as the indoor motorcycle sport’s biggest potential payout.

Races are set for Oct. 15 at Sam Boyd Stadium.

“If a rider wins each 10-lap segment, all three 10-lap segments, they’re awarded with a million-dollar purse. That is what is so cool about this event,� five-time supercross winner Ricky Carmichael said.

Carmichael, who now designs courses for the indoor motorcycle sport, said the action begins high above the track.

“It has a wow factor to it,� he said. “The riders start at the top of the stadium and come all the way down onto the floor … They cover the seats coming down with plywood, and they put dirt on top of that.�

Following the 165-foot drop to the ground, there’s an additional 150 feet to cross before reaching the first turn. The course is described as one of the toughest ever built.

“It’s huge,� Carmichael said.

Tickets cost $50 to $70, and are available online or by calling (702) 739-3267.

The racing is scheduled to kick off at 6 p.m.. Ticket holders may arrive as early as noon for the “pit party,� with a live DJ and autograph sessions.

Reigning supercross champ Ryan Dungey and last year’s Monster Energy Cup winner Ken Roczen are among the riders expected to chase the million-dollar prize.

Sam Boyd Stadium at 7000 E. Russell Road is about a half-hour drive east of the Strip.

Info: Monster Energy Cup

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