Yamaha press release:

Yamaha freestyle motocross rider Robbie Maddison will mix it with some of the entertainment world’s biggest stars this weekend when he rides the red carpet at the opening of the MTV Music Awards in Sydney.

The 27-year-old from Kiama Downs in NSW will also present a number of awards at the event, which will be televised to an audience of millions world-wide.

MTV will feature a special segment on Maddison’s 2009 New Year’s Eve feat, a spectacular 96ft vertical jump onto the Arc de Triomphe monument in Las Vegas.

Maddison teamed up with the manufacturer late last year, opting for a proven FMX performer in the versatile YZ250Y to tackle his newest pursuits.

Yamaha Motor Australia Motorsports Manager Ray Howard said Maddison was a highly-regarded rider within the sport and looked forward to working closely with him in the future.

“It wasn’t long ago we welcomed Cameron Sinclair to the family, and to have Robbie on board as well is fantastic,” said Howard.

“He is a leading light on the FMX scene and has a huge worldwide following so we’re very excited that he has chosen Yamaha and the YZ250Y.

“Robbie is sure to make a big impact at the MTV Awards, we look forward to seeing him bring the Yamaha brand to mainstream television.

“Furthermore we will watch on with interest as he gets set to make his mark in 2009 at the various world-class freestyle events and tours.”

Maddison’s career highlights include various world distance jump records, second place on the 2008 Dew Tour, a gold medal at Planet-X Summer Games and the honour of becoming the first non-local rider to qualify for a major US event.

Fans can follow his progress at www.robbiemaddison.com.