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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