X-Fighters to face off in Istanbul this weekend

Blake ‘Bilko’ Williams will look to make an impact at this weekend’s third round of the Red Bull X-Fighters World Tour at Kazliçesme Square at the base of the ancient Yedikule Fortress in Istanbul, Turkey.

Williams is one of two Aussies in action amongst the 12-rider line-up featuring freestyle motocross’ most-credentialed athletes.

Williams was a consistent player on the Red Bull X-Fighters tour last year, making the podium in Spain and finishing fourth in Italy and Dubai.

He finished the year in fifth place on the standings, but has not scored a point in competition this year after being forced out of the Dubai opener with injury.

Rival riders will be wary of the former X Games gold medallist, renowned for his signature style and ability to pull off the biggest tricks when called upon.

Back in action this weekend is fellow Aussie Rob Adelberg, who rode with a broken jaw at last month’s Glen Helen event in the United States.

Adelberg fought gallantly but struggled against the local riders, and was unable to repeat his podium performance from the opening round in Dubai where he finished a strong second.

The Yamaha-mounted rider still collected 35 points for his efforts and, added to his 80 from round 1, holds down fourth place on the world tour standings.

American rider Todd Potter leads the way on 135 points ahead of New Zealand’s Levi Sherwood.

2008 World Tour winner, Matt Rebeaud, kicked off proceedings ahead of the event yesterday with a series of demonstration jumps between the world famous Hafia Sofia and Istanbul’s Blue Mosque.

In competition, riders will face off in pairs to determine those who will contest quarter, semi and the eventual grand finals.

A panel of five expert judges will score them in areas of variety, challenge and execution, form and flow, use of course and energy, excitement and entertainment.