Derby Goodness

Sunday 15th August

This week has been awesome for my derby addiction!  Thursday we had practice, which was led by El (of the London Roller Girls!). She had devised a whole load of drills for us, which involved plenty of pack work, being Pivot, and also getting to be Jammer. It was the 1st time I had done any kind of pack work and I absolutely loved it. It was like we got to take all the skills that Tara has been teaching us, and put them into practice. I learnt a lot about pack communication and awareness, and have also tightened up my stepping rather a lot. Also, I finally cracked “derby stance” whilst doing crossovers. And everyone is right….it IS so much easier down there! Oh…and faster. Apologies for my destructive nature….all I can say is Franck now knows that electrical/expensive items must not be within 10 feet of me and any time.

On Friday we did of course have our Launch Party, which also marked the 75th Anniversary of Roller Derby. I got there half and hour late as soon as my kids were picked up, and already it was a hive of revellers! I went and checked out all of the wonderful stalls and people for a bit, then took over door duties, which was really good fun, getting to meet so many fabulous people. The bands were fantastic, the burlesque ladies were as always, beautiful, the people were having a ball, the Harlots and Hounds were on form and the cupcakes were divine….even the one that ended up all over my face and up my nose (Thanks Dan…) We also won raffle prizes, with me getting the Derby comic book I wanted, and a gorgeous Roller Girl necklace. The whole night was a huge success and I can honestly say I loved every minute of it. And, of course, the Harlot and Hounds bond gets ever stronger…

On Saturday, we had the pleasure of going to Leicester for Space Jam, a bout hosted by the Dolly Rockits. What a truly amazing day! We got to see some more real Derby action and I do of course now have a whole new load girl crushes / girls to idolize The whole atmosphere was that of fun, it was electric! The crowd loved it, the hosts did a wonderful job! And I came away yearning to get on the track.

On Sunday we had practice at Chilwell, led by Eve N Deadlier. Now let me tell you this. That is a beastmaster right there! I wonder if she has been a PTI in the Army? We did a fair bit of endurance work, interval work, some pushing/pulling in pairs, whip drills, and then had a go at seeing if we could do our 25 laps in 5 minutes…which I am very proud to say that many did, including me!! I should also point out that the newbies who are very new, being led by Coco de Maul (who is also awesome!!) got on and did the drill too, doing brilliantly as for some, it was their 1st time on the fast track! I can see that we are going to have a very strong team!!

So yes, this was a particularly good week for me,  so much Derby goodness, so much love, and learning so many more skills. I am a very happy Harlot!!