The Australian FMX Pro Open is the brain child of Joel Balchin and Martin Thann and will be the future of FMX in this country. The idea to hold an event of this calibre came about as part of a new year’s resolution that was made on NYE 2010. We aim to deliver a FMX contest that surpasses all other freestyle motocross events by utilising the knowledge and relationships that we have established during more than a decade of working within the industry. The Australian FMX Pro Open will feature a full size all-dirt course (as seen in events like the X Games) and will use a number of ramps and dirt jumps in a controlled environment. A prestigious Australian title has been missing from the sport of FMX for many years! We have set ourselves a goal with a five year plan to establish a well rounded event that will supply riders with the opportunity to achieve their goals to become the king of Australian FMX!

Seventyeight Promotions PTY LTD are the company behind Australian FMX Pro open and was founded in February 2010. The company name, Seventy Eight Promotions is simple, Joel And Martin were both born in the year of 1978. Together they decided that this was an appropriate name for their company.

Joel Balchin - "I have been involved in the sport of FMX as a professional rider for over ten years and during this time I have continued to expand my knowledge of the sport. One of the biggest shortcomings of the local freestyle scene is the limited number of local events for Australian riders to compete and test their skills against each other. Unfortunately the situation didn’t look to be improving any time soon. As I now approach the back end of my competitive career, I realize that I am in a fortunate position to turn the situation around and to give back to the sport and its many supporters. The Australian FMX Pro Open is our way of expanding the profile of Australian freestyle motocross and giving something back."

Martin Thann plays a vital role in the success of the event from a construction perspective. Martin has been heavily involved in the excavation industry for over a decade and also comes from a motocross background. He is highly qualified in the operation of heavy earth moving equipment which has given him the experience necessary to create the perfect course, with rider safety being of the highest regard. Together we will change the face of FMX in the country for good!