The X Games debut at Cal Expo, partnering with local nonprofits like Pop Out 916 to empower Sacramento’s youth through skateboarding, art and music.

SACRAMENTO, Calif — The X Games have officially begun at Cal Expo, drawing thousands of fans to Sacramento for the first stop of the new X Games League.

While the competition features some of the world’s top BMX riders and skateboarders, organizers say one of the event’s biggest goals is building connections with the local community.



This story continues below.

For Jordan Baker, founder and CEO of Pop Out 916, skateboarding provides young people with more than just a sport.

“My thing was to be a part of the solution,” Baker said. “I wanted to offer those positive opportunities for kids to be able to have a safe space to be able to express themselves through skateboarding, music, art.”

Baker said that mission aligned with X Games’ efforts to partner with community organizations while planning this year’s event.

“Everybody was so excited, and for us to be able to lift up some of these nonprofits and shine the spotlight on them, to us we feel that it makes them stronger and we’re able to give back more than we can in a lot of other areas,” said Sarah Farnsworth, X Games’ global engagement and philanthropy representative.

In addition to Pop Out 916, X Games partnered with Skate MD, Project Lifelong and Sacramento Children’s Home during the weekend’s events.

For Baker, the partnership sends an important message.

“That really means something. That really means that they are invested in the community, in Sacramento, and that means a lot to the city,” Baker said.

“X Games came to Sacramento, this is the first year they’re in Sacramento, and they chose to partner with Pop Out. It means everything,” he said.

Farnsworth said each organization shares a common goal of supporting young people.

“These are all organizations focusing on the youth in Sacramento to help empower them and teach them new skills and build teamwork and build their athletic skills,” Farnsworth said. “So for us, it doesn’t get any better than that. There’s no price on those smiles and giggles.”

Baker said seeing young people enjoy the event made the partnership especially meaningful.

“Oh man… ecstatic,” Baker said. “Overly thrilled… just amazed… excited.”

The X Games continue through the weekend at Cal Expo. In addition to competition, organizers have scheduled evening concerts, with Kaskade performing Friday night and DJ Mustard and Subtronics scheduled to perform Saturday night.

X Games Sacramento kicks off at Cal Expo with BMX and skate action