X Games eliminates snowmobile and Moto X best trick competitions

In the wake of the death of Caleb Moore, the X Games will eliminate the snowmobile and Moto X best trick competitions from future events.

The safety of snowmobiles came under scrutiny in January after the death of Moore from injuries he sustained when his 450-pound sled rolled over him after a backflip gone wrong. It was the first death in the 18-year history of the X Games.

The X Games still plans to hold other snowmobile events at Winter X, along with motorcycle competitions at Summer X.

ESPN, which televises the X Games, announced the cancellations in a statement Tuesday.

“This change reflects our decision to focus on motor sports disciplines which feature athletes who also compete in multiple, world-class competitions (e.g., professional events and tours) reflecting the highest degree of athlete participation, competitive development and the global nature of our X Games franchise.”

ESPN spokesman Danny Chi explained in an email to the Associated Press that the eliminations were under consideration before January and that “we will focus on motor sports disciplines that engage athletes who consistently compete in multiple global competitions reflective of the global reach of X Games.”

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