Monster Energy is proud to welcome X Games gold medalist, and influential freestyle motocross innovator Blake "Bilko" Williams on Episode 39 of the sports and pop culture podcast UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny.
CORONA, Calif., Sept. 5, 2022 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Roll out the red carpet for a true motocross legend! Monster Energy is proud to welcome X Games gold medalist, and influential freestyle motocross innovator Blake "Bilko" Williams on Episode 39 of the sports and pop culture podcast UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny.
This latest 53-minute episode was recorded inside Monster Energy headquarters in Corona, California. The latest addition to the UNLEASHED podcast released today across Monster Energy's social media channels, featuring the inside story from the 37-year-old FMX icon from Baxter, Australia, who made history at X Games 2009 as the first international rider to win gold in Moto X Freestyle and forever changed the sport with his unique trick innovations.
"I never thought dirt bikes could be a thing, so I just kept working all along," said Williams looking back on his career in the new episode of UNLEASHED.
Fans can now tune in to Episode 39 of UNLEASHED featuring Monster Energy's Blake "Bilko" Williams. Released today, the new podcast is streaming on all major platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, and YouTube.
Throughout his unique career, Blake "Bilko" Williams unlocked several milestones in freestyle motocross: After turning pro as a motocross racer in 2003, the Australian switched gears into freestyle motocross – and found his calling! He became the first international rider in history to win X Games gold in freestyle Moto X in 2009. That same year, he was voted FMX Rider of the Year and has left an indelible mark on the sport with trick inventions like the Cliff-flip and Ruler flip as well as 360 variations like the Flying Dutchman. In a sport that celebrates its legends, there's only one Bilko!
Learn about Bilko's evolution from talented motocross racer to freestyle trick innovator in the interview with the two podcast hosts, Australian action sports personality Luke "The Dingo" Trembath and professional snowboarder Danny Kass on Episode 39 of UNLEASHED. Tune in right here.
Growing up in Australia, Bilko developed a penchant for going fast on dirt bikes at an early age. After riding BMX bikes a lot, he picked up a 50cc bike at the age of 7 and began motocross racing at age 12. Fast-forward a few years, and the early start paid off: In 2003, Bilko turned pro as a motocross racer but already felt drawn to the acrobatics of freestyle riding.
In those days, the sport was still finding itself, progressing rapidly through the invention of new tricks. "We all tested the waters a bit in terms of what hurts and what doesn't. But back then it was all 'send it and see,'" said Bilko about his roots in freestyle motocross.
After creating buzz on the scene, Bilko garnered an invite to the biggest action sports showcase, X Games 2006. He took third place in Best Trick. "It all just took off from there, but I was still working at the time," said Bilko, who held down a factory job as a welder at the time.
Ultimately, he finished school and doubled down on his motocross progression, touring with the Crusty Demons of Dirt show tour. Next, Bilko stole the spotlight at X Games in 2009 by taking the gold medal in Moto X Freestyle, the first non-American to accomplish this victory. "They made it hard, but I got the job done," said Bilko on UNLEASHED.
The UNLEASHED episode also touches on the sheer dominance of Australian riders in freestyle motocross. "When I recently did X Games, the statistic was that 32 of the last 42 Best Trick medals in motocross belonged to Australians," said Bilko. When asked why he replied: "Because we're the best!" At the same time, Bilko also allowed that Australian riders may have "multiple screws loose."
Asked about the last time he was addressed by his given name, Blake Williams, Bilko replied: "My mom calls me that when I'm in trouble!"
Want to hear the full story from Monster Energy's Bilko himself? Visit the landing page to access Episode 39 of the UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny Podcast featuring FMX icon Blake "Bilko" Williams.
Episodes of UNLEASHED are filmed on a special set inside Studio M at Monster Energy headquarters in Corona, California. The podcast is hosted by the dynamic duo of Australian action sports personality Luke "The Dingo" Trembath and professional snowboarder Danny Kass. Known for their deep roots in action sports culture, the two starred in the beloved cult TV show 'The Adventures of Danny and The Dingo' on Fuel TV for five action-packed seasons in the early 2010s. Both hosts have walked the walk as pro snowboarders and possess the interview skills to find common ground with guests from any type of background – sports and pop culture. Always look out for new episodes dropping bi-weekly on Mondays.
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The UNLEASHED with The Dingo and Danny Podcast is here to celebrate the personalities behind the Monster Energy lifestyle. With each episode dedicated to a unique guest or topic, listeners learn about living on the edge and advancing the state of the art in the world of high-energy sports as well as music, games, and pop culture from individuals at the top of their game. More than a drink, Monster Energy is a way of life lived by athletes, sports, bands, believers, and fans – and the podcast is an extension of this unique DNA.
For more on Monster Energy and the UNLEASHED Podcast, visit http://www.monsterenergy.com. Also follow Monster Energy on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for exclusive content and athlete features.
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About Monster Energy
Based in Corona, California, Monster Energy is the leading marketer of energy drinks and alternative beverages. Refusing to acknowledge the traditional, Monster Energy supports the scene and sport. Whether motocross, off-road, NASCAR, MMA, BMX, surf, snowboard, ski, skateboard, or the rock and roll lifestyle, Monster Energy is a brand that believes in authenticity and the core of what its sports, athletes, and musicians represent. More than a drink, it's the way of life lived by athletes, sports, bands, believers, and fans. See more about Monster Energy including all of its drinks at http://www.monsterenergy.com.
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