World Supercross Inspires Calgary to Ride Ahead of Canadian GP at McMahon Stadium

To celebrate the countdown to race night, World Supercross hosted a special Learn to Ride session at the Wild Rose Motocross Association in Calgary. Led by one of Canada’s most successful and recognisable supercross riders, Cole Thompson, the experience introduced a group of local creators and personalities to the thrill, skill and adrenaline behind riding a dirt bike.

From the first twist of the throttle to the challenge of navigating the dirt, the day offered participants a hands-on introduction to the foundations of motocross. For many, it was their first opportunity to experience the balance, control and confidence needed to ride on two wheels — and a chance to discover why supercross continues to captivate fans around the world.

The Learn to Ride session was designed to bring the sport closer to the Calgary community before the world’s best riders take to the track at McMahon Stadium. It gave local voices a genuine insight into the physical demands of riding, as well as the welcoming and energetic culture that surrounds the sport.

Among the day’s standout guests was Otis, the nine-year-old Calgary Stampede busker who has won over local crowds with his banjo performances and his heartfelt handwritten sign: “Help me buy a dirt bike.”

Otis’s enthusiasm for life on two wheels made for a special moment. Watched by his mum, Cecile, he got the opportunity to ride a dirt bike for the first time that captured the spirit of the day.

Having spent two consecutive Calgary Stampedes busking for loose change, Otis recently went viral on social media after being spotted by country music artist Michela Sheedy. Sheedy also joined the Learn to Ride session, sharing in a day that celebrated Calgary talent, community and the unique appeal of getting out on the dirt.

For Thompson, the event was an opportunity to share his passion for the sport with a new generation of potential fans and riders. As one of Canada’s leading supercross talents, he helped guide participants through the early stages of riding while demonstrating the commitment, technique and determination required to compete at the highest level.

Thompson was then invited to the Calgary Stampeders Canadian Football League game, where he was presented with a Stamps’ jersey and fans watched some of the footage from the Learn to Ride day on the big screen.

Calgary’s connection to sports, outdoor adventure and major live entertainment makes it the perfect setting for World Supercross. The Canadian GP will transform McMahon Stadium into a high-energy racing arena, where elite international riders will battle for championship points in front of thousands of fans.

On August 8, supercross riders will bring speed, intensity and spectacular racing to the heart of Calgary. With bar-to-bar competition, big-air moments and a stadium atmosphere unlike any other, the World Supercross Canadian GP is set to be one of the city’s must-see sporting events of the summer.

Tickets for the World Supercross Canadian GP at McMahon Stadium on August 8 are on sale now. Don’t miss your chance to experience world-class supercross live in Calgary.