Get in quick! And strap on your skates as Nanjing becomes home to the world roller speed skating competition!
Leading to the city being dubbed the “capital of roller sports”, Nanjing has signed a long-term agreement with FIRS (The Fédération Internationale de Roller Sports (FIRS; English: International Federation of Roller Sports) after successful Roller Sports demonstrations wowed the committee during the Youth Olympics. Along with swimming, skating is considered to be one of the most complete physical exercises.
Established in 1924 by Fred Renkewitz and Otto Myer in Montreux, Switzerland, FIRS brings together countries from every continent, FIRS aims to “foster the Roller Sports movement and participation on a global scale”. The humble roller skate have a history that dates back to the 17th century and was popularised in the 60’s by roller disco’s.
To most people this sport is reserved for light weekend exercise but to a lot of people it is a serious life long sporting extravaganza. The competition is taking place at the Olympic Sports Park in Pukou, Nanjing from 10th – 18th September.
