PR: MTV Alternative Sports & Music Festival
(June 2, 1997)

MTV: Music Television announced today that it will hold its firstever professional "Sports and Music Festival" on October 17, in Austin, Texas. For the first time ever, this three day alternative sporting event, created by the athletes, will combine new music, sports competition, lifestyle segments and a festival atmosphere thatwill be the basis of 10 hours of on-air original programming. MTV's "Sports and Music Festival" is scheduled to air on November 7-9.

MTV viewers will be in the center of the action when they watch professional athletes competing in the following categories: In-Line Skating, BMX, Skateboarding and Snowboarding. During the three day festival, MTV will profile the lifestyle and expression of the athletes competing. Additionally, reality based segments will catch the athletes "off the field," hanging out with fans and fellow competitors.

MTV's "Sports and Music Festival," will be held in Austin, Texas the live music capital in the country and host to thousands of college students. As part of the snowboarding competition, MTV will build an 80 foot high and 250 foot long snowboard ramp that will be filled with snow and serve as host to the "Big Air" jump event.

MTV will also showcase live musical performances from some of the most cutting-edge rock n' roll bands around. During MTV's "Sports and Music Festival," the athlete will have the opportunity to showcase his/her athleticism as they perform their routines to music that they enjoy.

"We are very excited to be able to showcase the free spirit of alternative sports and their athletes in what we know will be an incredibly exciting three day event," said Robert Kusbit, Senior Vice President of Production for MTV.

MTV's "Sports and Music Festival" will be executive produced by Patrick Byrnes, creator of "MTV Sports" and "The Rodman World Tour" and produced by Greg Johnston.