Queenslander Michael Byrne will compete in the inaugural Monster Energy Cup on 15 October at Las Vegas’ Sam Boyd Stadium.

Byrne, who rides for the BTOSports.com/BBMX team, was confirmed by event organisers and is excited for the challenge that lies ahead in the event’s inaugural running.

“It’s definitely exciting to have all that money up for grabs, especially for a stand-alone race,” said Byrne. “It will for make it interesting because the 250s are light and nimble but the 450s have a lot of power. I’ll definitely be on a 450.”

Byrne came to the U.S. in 2000 from Australia, where he was the 250cc runner-up in the Australian National Motocross/Supercross championships.

Since arriving in the U.S., Byrne has finished sixth overall in the Supercross class championship in 2004 and 2006, respectively.

Byrne missed the first seven races of the 2011 Monster Energy Supercross championship due to an injury, but upon returning, he earned 10 top 10 finishes.

The unique hybrid track will consist of supercross/motocross terrain and will have a tremendous motocross-style influence, making it unlike any other stadium race in the world.

The Monster Energy Cup posts a $250,000 purse with the winner walking away with a $100,000 check, and $1-million will be paid to a rider that wins all three main events.

Tickets for the 2011 Monster Energy Cup can be purchased at the Thomas & Mack Center Box Office, UNLVtickets outlets, online at www.UNLVtickets.com, www.MonsterEnergyCup.com, or by phone at (702) 739-FANS. Tickets will be available at the Sam Boyd Stadium Box Office on the day of the event only.