I went along to my first Roller Derby on Saturday, attending the opening party for the new home of the Rainy City Roller Girls in Oldham. The venue was the second floor of 1 King Street, a dusty space with a concrete floor ideal for skating.
The match was a fast, frantic and furious, with five referees in the centre trying to keep track of all the action. I found it difficult to follow what was happening initially, especially when trying to take photos - I'd look up from my camera and struggle to catch up with events. It was also definitely a bruising affair with scrapes-a-plenty for everyone, players being bumped off the track in all directions and injuries stopping play twice in the second half.
I'd certainly go again (their next home match is on Saturday November 19th) and on Monday nights the ladies hold a newbie evening if you're interested in having a go.
