FREE wheel bag w/ Purchase!

For a limited time, purchase a set of 8 Lanzini 'Desert Dip' wheels and receive a FREE Atom quad wheel bag! Click to learn more and purchase: special offer>

World Cup Info!!

TORONTO – Toronto Roller Derby hosts the first ever Roller Derby World Cup December 1 – 4, 2011 at The Bunker in Downsview Park. Thirteen countries are assembling teams of their most accomplished skaters to compete at an international level and claim the title of the best in the world: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, England, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, Sweden, and U.S.A.

Presented by the popular Blood & Thunder Magazine, the Roller Derby World Cup presents the first opportunity for skaters to represent their countries and the range of skills and experience that exists in international roller derby. Over 31,000 rollergirls, 1000 leagues and 36 countries make up the international roller derby community today. As modern-day roller derby is more developed in the US after ten years, and growing here in Canada after six years, the roller derby community is excited to see what each country will bring as the sport continues its exponential growth and popularity. Best of luck to all of the fantastic skaters and competitors!

For complete bout schedule and further information click here>

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Now THIS has put us in the holiday spirit! Thank you to GI Jane Austen from Hellions of Troy Roller Derby for sharing this great picture. Atom Wheels really does have the BEST customers and fans!!

Ask An Expert: Plate Mounting - Short/Forward vs. Standard Mounting

from DerbyLife/November 1st/2011:

"We received a request from Joe Asbury for more information from experts in the field about short and forward mounts vs. standard mounts for skate plates. For answers, we contacted Ivanna S. Pankin from Sin City Skates, and Doug Glass from Atom Wheels/Atom Gear/ Nistevo Manufacturing. Both experts referred us to Sure Grip's statement on the issue, so let's start there."

Read more>

Quad Plates... Past and Present

Nistevo Sport V.P. and former two time World Champion and Team USA member Doug Glass weighs in on the history and looks to the future of quad plates.

I personally lived the transition of 45 degree single action trucks to 45 degree double action trucks on into 5, 7, 10, 15, 19 degree trucks.

Like all sports, there is an evolution that cannot be stopped. So many of the products skated on early in my career were by-products of plates that were not specifically designed for speed skating.

Plates that ruled the speed market in this order from late 70’s to early 90’s: XK4 single action, XK4 double action, Magnum 45 double action, same time as the Magnum were a couple double action nylon plates. Then in 85 the Italian plate design began taking over. Plates such as Boen, Whip, and in recent the Roll-line and Star all have 15-19 degree trucks which have proven over many years they are more stable as well has responsive action. These plates are also designed with longer wheel base for additional stability in the turns. Late 80’s to 90’s Labeda Pro-Line, Hyper Power Track, with 5-7 degree double action took the indoor speed market by storm.

5-7 degree trucks proved to be very stable and provide tremendous power transfer. Without any question this change enhanced the sport of speed skating and in most cases ended up breaking all the speed records.

However, derby is not speed skating but resembles it in many ways including skater technique and skate related product selection. Derby has every aspect that speed has and more. The dynamics in the turns, stability needed at high speeds or in the pack. Derby specific techniques can be more related to roller hockey. Stop and go, lateral movement, tight turns, contact in a pack are all key elements that are considered part of ordinary roller derby.

With the increased dynamics of speed skating 45 degree trucks became obsolete by 1986. 45 degree no longer could hold up to the overall performance of the Italian brands and newer US brands. Ultimately most skaters picked an Italian brand for outdoor racing and a US brand for indoor. In many cases the brands crossed over, such as the best male quad speed skater of all time used Whip plates both indoor and outdoor.

For roller derby it is imperative skaters are first and foremost stabilized on their skates. Stability comes from the action of a plate, where the plate is mounted, wheel base on the plate and the skater’s technique. 45 degree is to squirrely, causing instability. As well 45 degree reduces power transfer during the push. Not all levels of skaters will notice the loss but if you are looking to optimize speed, power and stability then 45 degree trucks is not what you want

19 degree trucks are optimum, this action provides the best of all worlds. Between fifteen to twenty degree trucks are sufficient enough to provide all styles and levels of derby player’s maximum speed, stability and agility. 19 degree is flat enough to provide sufficient power and speed yet angled enough to ensure vast agility. 19 degree doesn’t over-react; it remains under you and responds on demand.

Artistic skaters are happy with 45, however they are not being hit, not looking for speed, they need to spin in one spot for a period of time, etc. Also, most of the top artistic skaters around the world are not using 45 any longer. I have not kept up closely with the evolution of art but from my knowledge years ago skaters were already changing to Italian plates. I don’t think the technology will regress for artistic. I also don’t see it changing much at all as the sport is so small now it is hard for the industry to invest in new product development. Derby is large enough that I think sooner than later brands are going to stop using the same truck molds they have had in their possession for 30 years and open some new innovative action. We are all tired of recycling the same trucks and relabeling the plate as a new name with the same action as 30 years ago.

-Doug Glass – Team USA 1986-1991, 2 Time World Champion

Atom Gear... Is It Right For You?

Atom Gear has been out on the market now for nearly a month and the response has been very interesting. Getting feedback from many different types of skaters, from fresh meat, intermediate to experienced derby folk alike.
read more>

Atom Gear is here!

Atom Gear protective wear is now available at www.AtomGear.com

Who is going to Nationals from your part of town

On Sept 16, 2011 the Eastern Regional took off in Baltimore, Maryland. 3 days of non stop derby to see who makes it to the WFTDA National championships in November. As of the end of the long weekend these are the teams that came out on top to go to the WFTDA Nationals.

1st- NY Gotham Roller Girls
2nd- Philly Liberty Bells
3rd- Charm City

The Western Regional took off on Sept 23 in Portland, OR. Teams from the western region included the Oly Rollers, Rocky Mountain, Rose City, Rat City, Tuscon, Bay Area, Jet City, Sacred city, Denver, and Angel City. After some very intense close bouts the teams that made it out to the nationals in Denver, CO are as follows:

1st- Oly Rollers
2nd- Rocky Mountain
3rd- Rose City

Congratulations to all the teams advancing.

Keep posted for more results from South Central Regional taking place Sept 30th - Oct 2nd. North Central Regional is Oct. 7th-Oct.9th. See you all there.

WFTDA Featured Skater - Atomatrix!

September 2011 Featured Skater: ATOMATRIX
Continuing her habit of earning trophies for her performance on skates, Atomatrix has traded in the speed track for the flat track; skating as a jammer for the Oly Rollers’ Cosa Nostra Donnas. Leading a life dedicated to roller derby, including owning and running a skating business, she still finds time to raise twin girls. Learn more about how this derby girl brings the “eye of the tiger” to everything she does… read full interview>

V for Varla Vendetta...

WINDY CITY'S VARLA VENDETTA

What is your biggest accomplishment?

Oooo..a hard one to start! Just when I think I've accomplished something big with my team, the next big challenge comes along to conquer. So, I don't think I'll ever have a definitive answer for this. When I began derby, it was sticking with derby for that first year of growing pains of starting a league. In 2007, it was turning around our shut out at Dust Devil and making it to the Eastern Region championship game (back when there were only two regions). In 2008 it was being the first team of our intraleague teams to go undefeated and win our local Ivy King Cup. Later in 2008 it was making it to the championship game of 2008 Nationals in Portland. We lost and I went home with a broken collarbone, but we finished second in the country. Most recently, it was making the first American World Cup team. So maybe that's more "high points," but nailing down one moment is too difficult. :)

What is your biggest challenge?

Constantly re-adapting my game to the growth of the sport. Over seven years, I've seen the game evolve so much. Once you feel like you've nailed one aspect another comes along and you have to step up your game to understand new trends, new strategies, and when old ones won't work any longer.

Do you have a motto you go by? .

Never die easy!

Have you had any injuries?
If so how long were you out for?

Broken nose, broken clavicle, broken ankle

What is your wheel of choice? Why do you like it so much?

93A Juke Alloys. I never really skated with aluminum hubs until recently, but noticed they were so responsive to quick movements. I'm a convert to the skinnier wheels.

How did you get started in roller derby?

After seeing the Texas Rollergirls on an episode of Insomniac (a Comedy Central travel show), I strolled into a store that happened to have a flyer up advertising an informational meeting about starting a derby league in Chicago. I went to the first informational meeting and never looked back.

Derby is a full contact sport and it's very taxing on your body. Will you be playing roller derby until your body says it has had enough, or do you have a retirement plan?

It's going to be a hard decision to make, mostly because of the people and community. I think my body will make that decision for me when the time is right.

What are your plans after you retire from roller derby?

Remember what free-time is :)

What do you do for a living?

Photographer and digital artist/retoucher

How do you juggle life and derby?

Carefully, it is definitely not easy

What is it about roller derby that you love the most?

The camaraderie and friendships. I love that it's allowed me to travel and be introduced to so many new people, places and experiences. It has also taught me about perseverance, struggle and the satisfaction of working with others toward achieving one goal. And skating, roller skating is just pure fun.

Do you partake in any other sports?

Bikram yoga if that counts

How often do you practice?

4-5 skate practices a week plus 1 day of offskates boot camp and 1 day of yoga. During the short "off season" I might have more offskates and less contact skating practices.

Do you do any outside training besides roller derby practice?

Yes, offskates boot camps at Kru Fitness, a Chicago gym owned by a former professional female soccer player who puts together great workouts for female athletes. Also, running, speed skating and bikram yoga.

Who is you biggest inspiration?

My parents – they both have incredible work ethics and inner strength

Have you always been an athlete or is roller derby your first sport?

I grew up riding horses and also did some ballet/tap when I was really young. In high school and college I ran a lot , rollerbladed, lifted and did yoga, but didn't do many team sports outside of gym class. I did try to play football with my brother when he'd let me.

After party drink of choice?

Amy and Brian's Coconut Water

Do you have a ritual that you do before a game?

I watch videos of Walter Payton – growing up in Chicago in the 80s, he's always been one of my biggest athletic inspirations

Do you have a song that pumps you up before a game?

The very first year that I started derby, it was Aces High by Iron Maiden. It has changed from
year to year, but "I'm Free" by Kenny Loggins also ranks up there and almost any Queen song.

What is your favorite Derby position?

For most of my derby career, I have pivoted and jammed, so I love the random occasions when I find myself as a back blocker – it's a treat.

Who is your favorite roller derby player of all time?

Ugh, there's no way to narrow it down to one! There are so many flat track skaters that I respect for different qualities. I remember seeing the Tamaccio sisters leg whip at the very first Dust Devil in '06 and it blew my mind. I think Racer McChaser was one of the first speed skaters I saw jam and she made it look graceful and effortless. I've enjoyed watching her excel over the years. Megan Formor was my teammate and co-captain for many years and I'm grateful I never had to play against her because I watched her level people. I also loved watching Megan and Malice with Chains play together for Windy City. Of course there are skaters like Tannibal, Atomatrix and Bonnie Thunders who just amaze me with their technical prowess and athletic abilities within this sport. I think they set the bar higher for everyone who plays this game and that's been such a boost for the sport's national progress. Joy Collision is pure excitement to watch with her speed and accuracy. I always know she's going to do something that makes me ooo or ahh. I feel the same about Steel City's Snot Rocket Science who is acrobatic in her execution. Hoosier Mama on Windy City is a jammer's best friend and an opposing jammer's worst nightmare. Athena DeCrime is my derby wife and has been along side me in the WCR since day one. I would not have survived the emotional times that accompany this sport without her and her motivation. There is a ton of women with whom I've shared a track over the years that have made me stop and think, "Dang, I have got to learn how to do that!"

Varla Vendetta

Magnum P.I.M.P... Let's see if he really is a PIMP!

St. Louis GateKeepers

Magnum P.I.M.P
# L7

Q. What is your biggest accomplishment?

A. My Biggest Accomplishment is being captain/Coach of the #1 team in the Men's Roller Derby Association's first official rankings.

Q. What is your biggest challenge?

A. My biggest challenge is keeping everything balanced.... Derby, work, personal life, relationship. Coaching two travel teams (gatekeepers and Arch Rival) and playing takes a lot of time and effort. Keeping a balanced life is definitely a challenge.

Q. Do you have a motto you go by?

A. The bar is set high enough if you have to be on your toes to reach it.


Q. What keeps you motivated.

A. My motivation is to fulfill potential. I don't want to look back and think things would have been different if i only would have done more. I give everything i have at practice and to my players. If my best isn't good enough, so be it... But I wont fail due to lack of preparation or effort.


Q. Have you had any injuries?

A. Not really. I have had some minor nagging injuries but nothing that has forced me to miss an bout. Knee strains, shoulder tightness and my chest clicks sometimes from a hit Percy Controll laid on me at practice.

Q. what is your wheel of choice and why?

A. Juke Alloys have been my wheel of choice for the last 6 months. I like them so much because they offer the perfect mix of grip, agility and roll. I don't have to worry about my wheels when I am on my Juke 2.0 Alloys.

Q. How did you get started in Roller Derby?

A. I joined the Arch Rival Roller Girls as a referee in early 2006 when the league started. I have been with them from the beginning. I was head referee for three seasons and started bench coaching them in 2008, I took a break from both in 2010 to get the GateKeepers started. I am back to bench coaching ARRG for the 2011 season.

Q. Derby is a full contact sport and it's very taxing on your body. Will you be playing Roller derby until your body says it has had enough, or do you have a retirement plan?

A. I have no plans of retiring any time soon. Derby is so fun and challenging, I can't imagine my life without it.


Q. What are your plans after you retire?

A. No plans... Maybe family based.

Q. What do you do for a living?

A. I am a industrial packaging salesman. Pretty much I sell boxes, tape, adhesive, bubble wrap and anything else a company needs to send its product out the door. It's the family business.

Q. How do you juggle life and derby?

A. Being in sales offers me a lot of flexibility with my time. Derby is pretty dominate in my life but totally worth the time and effort it receives. I have a patient Fiance, Dallis. Since she plays for ARRG, we fully support each other in regards to the commitment that is needed to play this sport.

Q. What is it about roller derby that you love so much?

A. Derby is fast, physical and requires a lot of strategy. Every element of a great sport. There is nothing better than owning a jammer as a blocker or flying by blockers as a jammer.

Q. Do you partake in any other sports?

A. I played lacrosse from high school until last year. The summer league I played in switched nights to when I was running the GateKeepeers practice so I had to stop.

Q. How often do you practice?

A. I typically practice with the guys twice a week and run 1-2 practices a week for ARRG.

Q. Do you do any outside training besides roller derby practice?

A. Totally! I am a firm believer that practice alone will not get you in the proper shape to play at your best. I typically hit the gym about 5 days a week. When training really amps up, interval hill training is added to the mix once a week.

Q. Who is your biggest Inspiration?

A. Dallis' love for the sport is definitely an inspiration. She goes to every practice she can. She is so motivated to improve her game that it helps keep me inspired to get better.

Q. Have you always been a athlete or is roller derby your first sport?

A. I was lucky enough to win two state Championships in high school for lacrosse. I have been greatly influenced by my high school coach and many of my coaching practices today are rooted from what I learned from him. Though coach Mike Sennett has passed, he will always be remembered.

Q. After party drink of choice?

A. Derby has turned me into a PBR drinker. Growing up in St.Louis, Bud Light was always my go to beer but PBR tall boys cant be beat.

Q. Do you have any rituals that you do before a game?

A. I bake brownies usually three times on game days... Stretch a lot... Eat well and take half a five hour energy before introductions and the rest at half time.

Q. Do you have a song that pumps you up before a game?

A. Deftones and Chevelle are my favorite pump up bands. Lately I have been listening to a lot of Chiodos, Memphis May Fire, Decoder and of Mice & Men.

Q. What is your favorite derby position?

A. I block for our travel team and jam for our local play. I am fortunate to play both but love how dynamic blocking is. I guess I like imposing my will on other skaters instead of figuring how to get around them.

Q. Who is your favorite roller derby players of all time?

A. Varla Vendetta..... She sees the game so well. It looks effortless when she is on the track. She is small and smart. the decisions she makes are just as important as her athleticism. Quadzilla and Streak are my two favorite players to watch on the guys side. You never know what they are going to pull next.

So my thought is that he IS pretty PIMP after this interview.

We came…we conquered…we kicked _ _ _!

Another indoor championship is now in the books and once again, Atom was THE wheel of choice at the 2011 U.S. Indoor National Championships held last month in Fort Wayne, IN. Atom's impact was dramatic, winning 94% of all divisional races and ending with total domination of the floor, including relays and novice events. In race after race, Atom's latest IQ wheel incarnation outperformed its predecessor and the competition at world-class levels, posting world-class speeds!

(above, Michael Cheek 5000m, world-class division champion (new national record set - IQ Wheels)

At Atom, we've simply stayed true to our goals and mission and have continued to ring the bell at each event throughout the year reminding our core ATOM fans which wheels to come prepared with. It's this unwavering commitment to superior design and technology that’s the ATOM truth still to this day, keeping us firmly in the drivers seat when it comes to speed!

During the Indoor Championships, competition was particularly close in the most recent round of world-class men, however only one spot received the overall glory of winning PRO-MEN. One athlete in particular who’s stellar season included a win in these championships & where all bets were placed putting an immense amount of pressure for the W was Will Bowen who has had an unbelievably exceptional year including his seasonal win at NSC this past May with just raw speed, moves & passes not possible for most in the field. Will stated before racing started, "I am so glad we’re on IQ’s here, those other boys just don’t understand." It was no easy task for Bowen as he had to fight his way to the promised land but in the end he did indeed deliver and received gold for the overall & became 2011 PRO-MEN’s champion!

(above, big Willy Wonka Winning on blue hub IQ's)

(above, Will Bowen keeping things in check, 2011 Pro Men's National Champ on IQ Wheels)

Inline speed wheels are a key piece of equipment that has a dramatic effect on the way your skates glide and perform. Atom's IQ Technology can make even a sluggish frame feel reasonably snappy while poorly designed wheels can make even the nicest of frames feel anemic or harsh. Wheels are THAT important and Atom Wheels will stop at nothing to ensure your investment is in a product that has proven itself time and time again. Make no mistake, we are not so delusional to think we have reached the summit in speed wheel technology yet... But we will continue to lead & pave the way always striving to go lighter, stronger and FASTER!

If you missed the opportunity to stop by the Luigino/Atom Wheels booth at these championships you missed our debut of 13 new earth-shattering products to hit the market soon & one that will revolutionize the inline speed market! Atom, always the innovator that continues to push the envelope in speed skating, tested a future wheel for indoors and like instant cocoa, just added water and received gold in its first race! Shianna Moses out of Federal Way took Atom's brand new SUB 7’s to the top of the podium in Freshman Girls 300m.

(above - Shianna Moses from Federal Way, Team Pattison's taking the new SUB 7's for a spin & finds gold in the 300m)

With the U.S Outdoor National Track & Road Championships just days away, (an event which also selects & determines the U.S World Team whom compete at the end of August in Yeosu City, Korea), our focus slightly shifts to the outdoor world as we once again set out to prove and place the Atom name, as we do each year, at the top of the podium. In closing, we want to truly thank each & every athlete who supported us at the indoor championships and kudos to all the winners! We wish the best of luck to those whom have their dreams set on making the U.S world team and of course, best of luck at the World Championships at the end of the month in Korea. More to come soon so please stay tuned.

Zac Attack doin damage in Sophomore Men, Team Pattison's, gold medalist)

CONGRATULATIONS Downtown Dallis

Atom Wheels All-Star Downtown Dallis is recognized this month on WFTDA for the skater of the month. To learn more about her check out the link below.

http://wftda.com/featured-skater/Downtown-Dallis

Congratulations Downtown Dallis!!!

Dolly Rocket!! Just in case you didnt know!

Q: What is your biggest accomplishment?

A: I’m pretty proud that I’ve been playing since 2004 and have never really gone through a terrible slump. My play has always been consistent, and I feel like I’ve always been on a trajectory of improvement, however modest and slow. I believe true accomplishment comes with consistency, not moments of greatness.

Q: What is your biggest challenge?

A: As a derby player, maintaining motivation! You can try to rely on your teammates for drive, but at the end of the day, it has to come from within. It’s difficult season after season to rediscover those reasons to keep pushing yourself, but when you do it’s really rewarding.

Q: Do you have a motto you go by?

A: Haters Gonna Hate.

Q: What is your motivation?

A: Honestly? Perfection. I really want to have that perfect game where everything comes together. I think I’ve had glimpses of that throughout my career individually and with my team, but I’ve yet to have that really perfect game. I also enjoy the preparation, competition and rituals of derby.


Q: Have you had any injuries?

A: Fortunately nothing serious yet. Shin splints, hematomas, pulled muscles, that’s it. I did need a cortisone shoot in my foot a few years ago for a serious bone bruise.

Q: If so how long were you out for?

A: Don’t think I’ve ever taken more than a month off of roller derby at any given time since 2004…..

Q: What is your wheel of choice?

A: D-RODS By Atom Wheels!

Q: Why do you like those wheels so much?

A: D-Rods afford the perfect amount of grip and slip to be able to skate on most surfaces. I can stop short without feeling any tweak in my joints, and I can grip tight around turns. They are also really light, so they help with my footwork and agility. Plus, the black and white looks slick on my skates.

Q: How did you get started in roller derby?

A: I played sports my entire life, volleyball, hockey, lacrosse, softball, basketball. I went to an art & design college in Providence, RI, and they didn’t offer any extra curricular sports, and by my sophomore year, I was really itching for something physical to do other than like, paint in my underwear. I saw a flyer in my cafeteria and thought “...hey, that sounds more interesting than doing Brown intramurals lacrosse this spring”, and tried out. It was one of the most challenging sports I’ve ever played, so I stuck around.

Q: Derby is a full contact sport and it’s very taxing on your body. Will you be playing roller derby until your body says it has had enough, or do you have a retirement plan?

A: I started playing derby right when I turned 18. I’m 25 now, and just starting to feel the effects of the last several seasons on my body. My league is playing more and more games; opponents are getting better and stronger. I’ve started scheduling rest weeks into my training regimen to slow the process of eventual wheelchair-dom, and cross training with low impact activities like cycling and yoga. I’d like to hope that I stop this madness before anything too serious happens to me, fingers crossed!

Q: What are your plans after you retire from roller derby?

A: Focus more on my career, lead a much healthier lifestyle where I have time to cook my meals consistently and go to bed at a reasonable hour, and travel to actually see the places I’m in, rather than whirlwind derby trips. I’ve also had an idea for a graphic novel in the back of my head for a while that I’ve sketched out, but just haven’t had the time and energy to put together.

Q: What do you do for a living?

A: I’m a multimedia designer at a museum in Baltimore. I shoot and edit our monthly educational videos, design our exhibits, take care of all of our marketing pieces and am the general go-to person for all of the museum’s design needs. I also do freelance design & illustration on the side whenever I can find the time.

Q: How do you juggle life and derby?

A: Poorly?
It’s really hard when you are dating and living with someone who loves derby as much as you do. You wind up talking about it a lot. You just have to find activities that you like to do that don’t revolve around derby and try to schedule them into your week. I also have a no derby emails on the weekends rule to keep me sane. Saying no to some extra-curricular derby opportunities will help you realize there is more to you than just the skating, and reminds you there are other things in life. It’s hard to do because it’s so fun, but you don’t want to lose touch with yourself, your family and other friends for the sake of skating.

Q: What is it about roller derby that you love the most?

A: I’ve learned a lot playing derby. Not just about the sport, but myself, people and what makes them tick, and the world in general. I started so young; I feel like I grew up playing derby, it was basically “The School of Life” for me. I am really thankful to the sport and its founders for being able to have that opportunity, as I would probably be a ginormous immature mess without it; more than I am right now, anyway.

Q: Do you partake in any other sports?

A: Not currently, but I used to play lacrosse, volleyball, hockey, basketball & softball. I opted out of applying for college scholarships for lacrosse to go to art school instead. Now I just ride my bike when I can and do yoga, though I don’t think I would classify those as sports since I don’t compete doing them.

Q: How often do you practice?

A: 2-5 days a week, usually I hit 3 or 4.

Q: Do you do any outside training besides roller derby practice?

A: I go to group personal training sessions that focus on cardio, strength & agility 2-3 days a week, try to hit a yoga class at least once a week and go for a bike ride 1 or 2 days a week.

Q: Who is you biggest inspiration?

A: I’m a ginormous Kathleen Hanna fan, and basically live my life by the rule: If Kathleen Hanna thinks its cool, then do it. I sent her fan mail when I was a kid, hahahaha

Q: Have you always been an athlete or is roller derby your first sport?

A: I played a lot of team sports as a kid. I needed that group mentality to push me through; I didn’t think I could ever be an individual sport player. Playing derby though, I had to learn how to get myself through a speed skating practice, and have since learned the joys of individual sports.

Q: After party drink of choice?

A: Depends on how the game went… Either a big glass of water (well), or a nice cold beer (not so well). I used to be more of an after-partier and could dance until the cows came home, but now I’m an old fart and I get tired and have to go home.

Q: Do you have a ritual that you do before a game?

A: For home games, Saturday is often my only day to sleep in, so I’ll wake up around 10, make brunch, go shopping (usually at the comic book store) and get to the arena for set up early. I like to do a good off-skates warm-up with a light jog and some agility work before I put my skates on. Then I get one of my teammates to punch me in the stomach and I’m good to go!
For away games, I just try to be as easy as possible and do whatever my captain tells me to.

Q: Do you have a song that pumps you up before a game?

A: Gravy Train – You Make Me Nervous

Q: What is your favorite Derby position?

A: Pivot!

Q: Who is your favorite roller derby player of all time?

A: Other than myself you mean? * Brushes off shoulders *
In no particular order: Joy Collision, Psychobabble, Atomatrix, Femme Fatale (the OG) & Sparkle Plenty.

Thank you for your time Dolly! - Atom Wheels

Sarmiento plots a perfect finish scenerio in ST. Paul

(above, start of Pro Men's 1/2 Marathon in ST. Paul)

Saturday, August 6th marked the third year of the Minnesota Half Marathon where 400-500 skaters turned out in Saint Paul for a spectacular day of inline racing. In conjunction with a runners event the inline half-marathon has continued to draw hundreds of skaters & spectators including some top level talent in the pro-men and women’s category. On the men’s side Adam Inline’s David Sarmiento (on ATOM ONE Wheels) put himself in the lead only once & when it actually counted during the ½ marathon and that was during the last 25 meters of the race as he flew by Simmon’s Rob Bell for the victory. Bell’s teammate Fedak led Bell out in the final meters however they didn’t count for Sarmiento on Atom wheels to sit patiently in the pack and then turn it on blazing by the start/finish line and crowning himself as the Minnesota Half Marathon champion! (Finish time 36:23)

(above - David Sarmiento of Adam's Inline prior to start of race)

A great day for Team Adam’s Inline as the winning continued 4 mins after the men’s finish as Kara Peterson also on Atom ONE Wheels finished first in the Master Women’s category where she looked to be in top form skating head to head with some of the best women in the region. ATOM ONE & IQ wheels continue to prove the wheel of choice when you’re serious about winning races! Congrats to all the athletes for competing in the Minnesota Half Marathon & a special kudos to David & Kara for rockin ATOM WHEELS!

(above - Kara Peterson Adam's Inline Master Ladies Winner - ATOM Wheels)
(above - David Sarmiento Adam's Inline awards ceremony)

2011 NIRA Nationals - Sept. 3, 4, 5th

Luigino USA is the proud title sponsor of the 2011 NIRA Nationals (short track speed skating) September 3rd & 4th (indoors) to be held at Champions in Spring, TX with the NIRA 10K (outdoor) portion on September 5th (Labor Day) Click the link to view, download and print complete information and forms for this exciting event!
nira entry form>

Team USA Roster Announced!

Congratulations to 9 Atom All-Stars making TEAM USA for the first ever WORLD CUP which will be held December 1-4 in Toronto!

• Atomatrix
• Deranged
• Joy Collision
• Juska
• Psycho Babble
• Tannibal Lector
• Varla Vendetta
Alternates:
• Stella Italiana
• Racer McChaseHer

The skaters have been selected to be a part of the 2011 "Blood and Thunder" Roller Derby World Cup Team USA. The team is made up of 28 of the country's best skaters from 14 leagues representing each of the four WFTDA regions. You can learn more about the entire team of talented skaters chosen here: read more>

Uncle Jesse McNasty is in the House!!

Atom Wheels is happy to introduce the newest member of its 'Front Runners' team... Uncle Jesse McNasty! read bio>

Mantia adds lightning to the storm at the Luigino Chicagoland Inline Tour 2011

This past weekend might have called for rain in Hoffman Estates, IL, ground zero to the Luigino Chicagoland Inline Marathon (U.S’s 2nd largest skate marathon) but for one skater come rain or shine had perfect race outcomes, which consisted of 3 stages (10K, 2 mile solo time trial & a full marathon) in that order spread over 2 days with only the full marathon on day 2 (Sunday, Aug 24th). That skater was none other than ATOM Wheel’s Joey Mantia who’s near flawless competitive season secured another overall win to his 2011 race roster, while adding another question mark to the most asked question this season, “Who can crush this guy this year?”

That answer wouldn’t come at the Chicago Inline Tour as Mantia took control on day one by winning the prime laps & then out sprinting the field in the 10K as he wound up his speed with 400m remaining and never looked back for the win. A few hours later, the sun gods attempted to shine some well needed sun over the damp “technical” course for the 2 mile solo time trial which would stagger & start each skater 30 seconds apart, based on the reverse order of the 10K finish. Mantia would go last based on that order & also catch the skater 30 seconds directly ahead of him on MPC wheels. This gave Mantia his 2nd win of the day & a great position overall before the next day’s full marathon.

The sun gods wouldn’t be so kind on that day they were needed the most which was Sunday, July 24th @ 9:45 a.m. when the rain although drizzling all morning seemed to cease for just a few hours but kept the course plenty wet for all skate groups. Mantia felt unstoppable on the all-new ATOM IQ MATRIX wheels as he went from the gun pulling Bont’s Stelly (Bont Kinetic wheels) & Julian Riveria (MPC Road War wheels) with him. The 3 remained together for the first 2 or 3 miles but it was soon apparent that Mantia’s pulls combined with his grip & roll were too much for anyone in the field to maintain those speeds that early in a marathon. Stelly & Riveria quickly returned to the main peloton and left Mantia out front on his own for the remainder of the 23 miles left in the marathon. His lead accelerated just under 5 minutes ahead of the main peloton at the finish crowing him the overall winner & once again the man to beat in 2011.

Mantia stated after the event “I felt good out there, the wheels were fast, the pack let me get away and although I had to skate alone for most of it I felt good”. Indeed he did and his timing might just be great as the U.S world team trials are 2 weeks away in Colorado, Springs and then off to Korea for the inline world games at the end of August where the 28 time world champion is poised to do well while representing the U.S & Atom Wheels!

Atom Dominates at US Indoor Nationals

Winning 92% of ALL individual race finals at the U.S. Indoor National Championships including PRO MEN, TRULY becoming the fastest inline race wheels on the planet! Congrats to 100% of all the winners these past few days and thank you for supporting ATOM Wheels!

Nistevo - Market Innovators

Atom Wheels, a brand you can trust! - While other wheel companies may choose to practice the art of misdirection, continually throwing their 'flavor of the month' wheels against the wall in a desperate attempt to see what sticks, Atom stays the course, following our core values and guiding principles based on 'performance through innovation'. read more>

Super G to the Rescue!

Look! Out on the track!! It's a bird....it's a plane.....It's SUPER G!!! This amazing new wheel, made of practically all urethane,is one of Atom's best derby inventions yet. The Super G features what we call our 'MINI-CORE.' The mini-core allows for a large molded front lip while still providing ample support with an extra-large cavity back. By creating a wheel that has so much urethane it allows for MAX flex and grip! Super-G also has Atom's exclusive indoor formula that allows for incredible roll while still maintaining the grip you need. If you like the Poison or Stinger you are going to LOVE the Super-G, the Super-G is your new 'go-to' wheel of choice! Atom Front-Runner Dante Muse said it best; ".....These wheels are magical!!

These wonder wheels are now IN-STOCK!! so make sure you place your order now.

For more information on this wheel please contact us at Info@Atomwheels.com or Visit AtomWheels.com

Heather Juska joins Atom All-Stars!

Please give a great BIG Atom Wheels hello to the newest Atom All-Star... Heather Juska!! Welcome to the team Heather :) read bio>

LIVED & Living the dream - Speedskating's most dominanat skater EVER, faced with his biggest challenge yet! LIFE with Chad P. Hedrick!

Ask any hard core speedskating fan about a time frame or era in our sport & ONE who displayed pure domination, they’d be hard pressed not to mention the man who ruled this very sport for nearly the past two decades – Chad Hedrick! A household name in speedskating which put him at the top of an elite group of skaters of our time! Sure there have been much bigger names in "speedskating" due to the ice being a very well known worldwide & longtime Olympic sport for well over a 100 years (1892 to be exact) & by no means am I alluding the lack of or downplaying the successes of some greats such as Eric Heiden (5 time Olympic Gold medalist -Long Track) but really what skater dominated on wheels ten fold or that much & would need a much bigger challenge that they switched to ice & in a short amount of time stood yet again on top of those Olympic podiums as well? I’m also not delusional as to Parra, Cheek, Rodriguez & many mores’ inline to ice successes from the past which I applaud & am amazed by their personal accomplishments but there’s no denying that Chad Hedrick did it in a way that kept us all in awe for 20 years & even still after he has well retired. He made the switch from inline to ice in 2004 & after only one year of ice training he became a world champion in long track ice, shocking everyone but himself. He then went on to set 6 new world records & became the first man in history to skate 10,000 meters (6.2 miles) under 13 minutes on the ice!

52 Time World Champion Chad Hedrick 1997

(Hedrick in 2010 Winter Olympics)

(Hedrick first man in history to break the 13 min barrier in 6.2 miles - 12/31/2005)

A fan or not of Chad, if you watched him race you’d be untruthful to say he didn’t make the hairs on the back of your neck or arms stand up at least once over the 20 year span of his career. The difference laid there which was between him & whomever else you want to compare him to as the most dominant in our sport, to date! Numerous stories of just unrealistic athleticism & race smarts that are mind blowing even if compared to today’s caliber of top-notch professional inline racing. Like the time at the Pan American Games in 95' in Argentina when it started to drizzle at the end of the points elim race and his front wheel started to lock up making it very difficult to push through. He signals for a wrench from the team coach, has to skate another lap to finally receive the wrench, pulls out of the pack, takes the wheel completely out (not replace but completely out) throws it to the side, catches back up & gets back in position & starts to rack up even more points while preparing for the final sprint to WIN with sparks flying off the road from his frame like a broken hitch on the back of a pick-up truck dragging the road somewhere deep in TX! He would never accept even possible failure & was programmed like a racing machine that just wouldn’t quit or die.

(Chad Hedrick leads his teammate Presti for another 20K victory in 2001)
(Chad Hedrick on top of the food chain finds himself on the Wheaties Box in 2006)

(Hedrick wins overall in 2001 in Germany)

Some say 52 inline world championships are a little too excessive as if he ran up the score board. Obviously that didn’t come from a world champion themselves. And as many greats did so previous to Chad, how many gold medals did he give up for his teammates over all those years? Now all of a sudden 52 doesn’t seem so high does it? Don’t get me wrong, Chad wasn’t always an angel to work with on & off the track but he takes nothing back or has zero regrets over any of it as it positioned him exactly where he wants to be post skating & in the game of 'LIFE' today! I was geeked to catch up with the now much more humble & happy go lucky Dad Chad Hedrick in Houston, TX this past weekend.

(Fila/Verducci's Chad Hedrick leads teammate Derek Downing at U.S. Outdoor Nationals 1998)
(Above Chad & baby Hadley Hedrick skate the Oval in Vancover 2010)

Here’s my interview with fifty-two time world champion & Olympic gold medalist, Chad P. Hedrick! (June 2011)

(Hedrick above leans into turn #1 in true Hedrick fashion - 2001 worlds)

(PETE SNELL) Chad, I honestly don’t know where to start as a million questions are running through my head and importantly enough, what’s running through everyone else's head.
So Chad, I know you got married back in 2008 to a beautiful Lynsey Hedrick & according to your Facebook life, all is great :)! But really how are you doing & what have you been doing since you stepped off the ice and/or inlines last?

(Chad Hedrick )- I'm doing great Pete. I am back in Houston enjoying life with my family (wife Lynsey and two daughters Hadley (2 years old) and Harper (6 months old). After the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver I took a whole year off trying to plot my next career move post skating. As I made the decision to leave the sport I knew I would have to set new goals for me post professional sports and that's exactly what I did. I am currently the spokesman for a nationwide energy company called Champion Energy, and also started a new career in the oil and gas business as a Sr. Account Manager. I manage 20+ accounts for a company called Valerus right here in Houston. We provide compression, processing & treating equipment to oil and gas companies across the world. Starting from the bottom and working my way up again just as I had to do in my skating career!

(Chad with wife Lynsey & baby daughter Hadley)
(Hedrick after the Winter Olympics)

(PS) What?? Chad with a job that requires wearing a tie occasionally to work? You traded in a spandex skinsuit for a business suit & tie job?? Kidding of course but that’s something I didn’t think I’d ever see, I’m impressed Chad! :) For the majority of your breathing life you’ve had skates on your feet. What was it like to wake up one day knowing you didn’t have to train at that level anymore if you chose not to?

(above, Hedrick at age 15 1/2 had already shocked the world at his young age and speeds he was able to achieve & maintain)

(CH) - You’re right, I learned how to walk on a pair of skates and it seemed like that was all I ever knew. Once I made the decision to hang them up it was a HUGE relief, but now I realize how fortunate and sincerely blessed I was to be able to travel the world doing something I truly loved. Man Pete, I traveled to over 30 countries with just my skate bag. That's pretty cool ya know? It's great knowing that I don't have to wake up and skate 25 miles everyday too. Now I need to work harder in my line of work as I grow as a professional in the game of life!

(Hedrick @ 2 1/2 years of age)

(Chad @ age 7 even on traditional quad skates was a National champion regardless of his small size at a very young age )
(Hedrick on right with Eric Heiden @ 2006 Winter Olympics where he received his first gold medal)

(Chad @ age 3 had a passion to win early on)

(PS) -Chad your name is still mentioned so much today whether it’s a discussion about inline racing styles, race strategies, transitions from quads to inline, pure domination, youngsters that went big or went home, technique and of course the DOUBLE PUSH. Do you have any idea of the influence you made on inline skating still today regarding these key areas? You were all of the above, what are your thoughts on that?

(Hedrick above in a training session on the road is generally acknowledged as having brought the Double Push technique to the public eye)

(Above, one of many articles or books written over his early years explaining Chad's unique style of skating, which quickly became the industry standard for inline speed. Later, books or literature would be released over the next several years breaking down Chad's natural skating style)
(Hedrick warms up on a 200m banked track overseas 2000)

(CH) - Pete, I never tried or went out to create the double push, I never tried to skate in any certain way or like any certain someone. All I know is that I wanted to win more than anyone out there and I was there to prove that. I was the best at what I did. I really think that was the key to my success. Think about it, there were many athletes that might have been stronger or bigger than me, but I just wanted it way more than they did. As far as my influence on the sport- man I truly don’t ever think about how Chad Hedrick changed speedskating. That sounds really weird to me. All I know is that I had a lot of fun doing it and it taught me a lot about life. A LOT! The biggest lesson? It taught me that to be successful you need a passion, work ethic, and a heart the size of Texas! Haha!

(Hedrick in 1998 Las Vegas 20K in cruise control with his effortlessly DP technique that was said to be ahead of his time)

(Hedrick back in his daily training regimen put in 200 miles a week all year round)

(PS)Was there a time when you were competing that you felt or knew you were making SUCH an impact or changing the game for inline skating?

(Hedrick had the ability like no other the way he used his hip to push his recovery leg forward before the set down while hitting some sick edges & maintaining top speeds for miles)

(CH)- The time that I thought speedskating had been changed forever is when people started saying that my technique was the only way to skate. I thought to myself ‘man you guys are crazy’- it's not like I designed or made up the double push it's just how I naturally skated, bottom line. I didn't change speedskating- God did! Look, is my technique a good way to skate? Yes, but I will also tell you that I have been beat by other skating style or ‘techniques’. So again, it goes back to the passion and desire to WIN, not the technique! And yes I'm still like that even today in my new career.

(Hedrick above never claimed to have invented the DP however his natural style became the industry standard for proper technique which is still being perfected or used today by many)
(Skaters internationally look on during a clinic as Chad demonstrates tight crossovers ahead)
(Hedrick above a firm believer in his faith)

(PS) -Man I remember one thing about you which is you HATED to lose more than anyone I have every known as an athlete. You would rather give up air to breathe than to lose a race, & I don’t mean in a poor sportsmanship way but deep inside you really really resented failure & just HATED to lose! Everyone will say that they hate to lose but you took it to a whole different level. Why were you that way and are you still that way?

(Hedrick on left about to receive a silver medal to Dante Muse at the 1994 world championships)
(Above, Botero, Rosero & Hedrick)

(CH) – Exactly, WHO likes to lose? At the top level of any sport if you are even “ok” with losing you'll get eaten alive. My dad always told me second place was the first loser and I truly believed that, Whatever I dedicate my life to I was going to give 100% to be the best. Heck, do you think I wanted to skate 200 miles a week to get third? I don't think so!

(Above left pic, Hedrick takes a bronze medal to Shani Davis (USA) in the 1000m)

(Above right pic, Hedrick's Dad, Paul Hedrick who had a huge influence on Chad's entire racing career, celebrate his first Olympic Gold- 2006 - Paul was Chad's biggest fan but also gave him a needed structure very early on and reminded him everyday how 2nd place is the first loser. Chad embodied that thought process throughout his career)

(Chad Hedrick above winning his first gold medal at the 1994world championships in France 9/30/94 "photo courtesy of VineMe)

(Hedrick wins his first Olympic gold medal for the 5000m at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy twelve years after his first inline world medal)

(PS) -Looking back now, what time frame comes to mind when you think back about your skating career the MOST?

(CH) - I guess the part of my career that stands out amongst all would be all of the world championships I competed in. I remember sometimes getting ready on the starting line & waiting for the gun to go off and all of my competitors from other countries were looking at me or at my skates like I had on something super special. I thought it was crazy that they were racing for 2nd place. I didn’t get it! I couldn't believe that sometimes the race was over before it started ya know? I have to say that feeling of alone or being the one to beat is how I want to live my life forever. I want people at my work today to look at me as though ‘what is he doing differently that makes him so good at what he does’? I love that feeling!

(Hedrick above center receives his first jersey & becomes a world champion at the age of 17)

(Hedrick 'middle' in 2001 France, World Championships)


(Hedrick leads pack in the points elim race on track in Pamplona, Spain 1998 world championships where he skated one of his best worlds earning 7 gold medals out of 7 events)

(PS) - Chad, you received FIFTY-TWO gold medals at the inline world championships during your career, (that’s not counting all the silver and bronzes along the way) and an Olympic GOLD MEDAL, two silvers and two bronzes on ice in your skating career. You set 93 National roller speed titles, six world records on ice & numerous U.S & International race records, some still held today. You’ve always been a pretty laid back & humble guy when it comes to your accomplishments in skating but do you have any idea how unstoppable & accomplished you truly were overall?

(CH) - 52 world titles blah blah blah. I was just a kid who truly loved what he did for a living & had a deep desire to win. I hope people all across the world get to have the feeling I had when I skated. To have a passion for something like that is an incredible feeling & very hard to explain. It's easy to be good when it's that much fun.

(In 3 years of being on the U.S World Team Hedrick became the most winningest inline skater of our time)

(Hedrick above in 2006 was in his ice prime setting 6 new world records)

(PS) -You literally ended some skater's careers because you simply never lost when it counted the most and when you did you came back twice as hard. I remember numerous times (when we were with Verducci USA) asking you to focus before a BIG race and try and take it a little more serious but you would literally laugh and tell me to relax, then go out there and destroy everyone and after the race tell me “told you to relax”! Was that the level of your confidence or was that part of you knowing people would let you do what you wanted in the race because you were Chad Hedrick?

Hedrick above always the jokester and laughable until that starting gun went off, it was all business from there!
(Hedrick pre-race jokes it up with Parra at the 06' Games)

(CH) - Pete I knew God had given me a very special talent and I was very fortunate & confident. You give an 18 year old kid confidence like that and it seems to be arrogance, but it really wasn't. I had so much pride for what I did and trying to prove everyday that I was the best, that’s all it was. My way of relaxing before a race was to have some fun. After so many years trust me you have to have some fun or suddenly you wake up and racing isn’t fun at all & it’s all downhill from there.

(Hedrick on right in the zone)

(Hedrick having some downtime fun on the Jay Leno after his gold medal)

(PS)- People said you were “ahead of your time or era”. How do you respond to that?

(Hedrick above in 2001 Overall World Champion)

(CH) - Yeah I heard that quite a bit as well. When people say I was ahead of my era I have one response. ‘My desire to win was ahead of its era”.

(PS) What do you remember to be some of the biggest obstacles in Speedskating aside from your goals of winning certain events?

(Hedrick above in 2010 Winter Olympics reacts to his time he had just completed)

(CH) - The biggest obstacle for winning events at the world level was the traveling. Wheeeeew! It seemed like we would go to Europe every other week and race guys that weren't jetlag like we were. It was challenging no doubt! Hedrick leads the pack internationally

(Hedrick above in 2nd often had the best race smarts when it came to strategy and pulling off huge upsets)

(PS)-What do you miss the most about Inline Speedskating?

Chad Hedrick – Man I miss hanging out with the guys on the road. We had some great, great times (my teammates Derek Downing & Keith Turner). Just some young guys traveling the world racing on skates; it was truly amazing.

(Above from left to right, Jorge Torres, Derek Downing, Keith Turner, Chad Hedrick & Dane Lewis. Team USA 1996)
(1994 World Championships athlete orientation)

(PS) -Since I’ve been back to the sport, not a meet or race goes by that someone doesn’t ask me still today about you or how you’re doing or even what you’re doing these days. Does that ever run through your mind? (People wondering about you) and do you think about your skating past each day even for a split second?

(CH) - Pete I truly respect the sport, but when you start at 2 years old sometimes it feels good to get away and create some new goals in your life. Kind of start a new chapter ya know? Of course I think about it from time to time but not every day. God, my family & career give me plenty to think about :)

(Above, Hedrick 'left' during a speed clinic)

(PS) - Chad, you have a beautiful family & I know you work just as hard at it as you did in skating. Will there ever come a time that you will attend some competitions to simply enjoy the sport as a spectator on the OTHER side of the fence? Support your dad as a coach? Become a coach? Will either of your kids skate? Hadley for sure right? (lol)

(Hedrick with his newest baby girl Harper Reese Hedrick 2010)

(CH)- It's funny you ask that because my dad just bought Hadley her first pair of skates. Who knows; If she likes it I may be in the rink again one day. Until then I'm fine where I am.

(Hedrick with baby girl Hadley Hedrick)

(PS) -I honestly don't want to ask the #1 question on people’s mind or what I'm asked the most out there, which is “will Chad Hedrick EVER skate again??” because I already know the answer but for the sake of not getting punched in my face if I didnt ask, how would you answer this question?

(CH)- Let's just get this out in the open right now. Chad Hedrick is done skating, ok? I will never skate competitively ever again. I think 200 miles a week for 15+ years is enough, don’t you?

(Hedrick above leads the way in 2000-2001 season during his last few years competitively on wheels)

(PS) -Since you basically conquered the skating world on your own as a little boy, what advice do you give an up & comer that wants to be the next Chad Hedrick or Joey Mantia?

(Hedrick warms up with some bounce jumps before a race in 2009)

(CH)- - My advice to anyone in any sport is to choose something you truly love. A passion for your sport, job, or career is a huge advantage and like I said earlier- if you love it, it's easy to be good at it. This sounds cliché’ but I promise you that was the key for me!

(Above, Parra, D. Muse, T. Muse & Hedrick at age 17 - 1994)
(Hedrick in France 2001 caries the American flag after winning gold)

(PS) -Speaking of Mantia, do you ever keep up with who’s doing what whether it’s inline or ice, or how fast some of these guys are going today?

(Above, Mantia looks up to one of his idols, Chad Hedrick)

(Two of the greatest in their own - Mantia 'left' - Hedrick 'right')

(CH) - Pete I am out of the loop as far as what's going on out there these days. I've talked, eaten, and breathed skating for so long it was time for a breather. Only a few people in the sport would understand what I'm saying. Just ask Derek Downing! :)

(Above, Hedrick & Downing '1 & 2' at the 1999 PIRS race in Columbia, GA)

(Above, Downing 'left' and Hedrick 'right' the dynamic duo for most of the 90's take 1st & 2nd at Downers Grove 1996)

(PS) -The inline speeds and wheel sizes have definitely changed since you last skated on 80mm wheels for the most part of your career. I personally would have loved to have seen you race on 110mm wheels or some of the equipment we’re making today. Any thoughts on this subject?

(Above Derek Parra leads the way, with Hedrick on his heels, sporting 76mm wheels. Jonathan Webster in 3rd, followed by Derek Downing and Michael Cole)

(CH) - Hey I liked my 76 mm Ultimate Sidewinders, Haha. No, I hear the sport has changed a lot with much higher speeds. I can only imagine what my era would have been like if we would've gone any faster. haha

(76mm Ultimate Sidewinders, best wheel on market in 1992)

(PS) -You STILL hold the record for the Northshore Inline Marathon (Duluth) when you were 21 years old in 1998 for a time of (57 mins & 18 seconds). 13 years later, now on 110mm wheels and teams working together still cannot touch that record you set on 80mm wheels that day. Explain that!!

(CH) - In Duluth that year man I think I sprinted for like 18 miles or so (grin) . I truly had a few days in my life where I felt like I was sprinting for miles and miles haha. That's a cool feeling to have! That's what it's all about for me. 100 lap race and taking off with 98 to go saying “COME GET ME BOYZZZ”! haha

(Above, Hedrick, Downing & Turner at the Duluth Marathon 1998. Hedrick still today holds the record for this ultra-speedy marathon 57.18)

(PS) -The fastest indoor lap we’ve seen today is 8.32 seconds set by Will Bowen (D&M/Luigino) and the next fastest lap was set just this year by someone you know really well world champion Harry Vogel (Luigino/ATOM Wheels) with an 8.36 in an NSC event. What are your thoughts on guys and gals still skating that are your age and your thoughts on going 8 seconds per lap indoors?

(Keith Turner 14 time world champion, Harry Vogel 3 time world champion and Hedrick 52 time world champion - August 2000)

(Hedrick helped revolutionizing not only the DP but also race strategies used indoors by doing intervals constantly in distance races, such as all out on lap two of a 100 lap race)

(CH)- That’s awesome, good for them. I wish them a long & successful career as I was fortunate to have myself. I loved skating indoors, there’s no better racing than indoors & going faster & passing & racing that fast was what it was all about! Again, good for those guys & I wish em the best!

(Above, Chad Hedrick 'middle', Paul Hedrick 'green & white jacket' & Derek Parra 'kneeling down' LAS Vegas Invitational Indoor meet)
(Above, Hedrick & Julie Brandt Glass @ a press conference)

(PS) -Chad besides a LOT of hard work, what else do you owe your success too on a serious note?

(CH)- Man I wouldn't be doing this interview if God wouldn't have given me these talents and that passion. Also my dad stayed on my butt for years and I always wanted to prove to him that I could be the best. I dared him to say I couldn't do something haha!

(Above, Downing on left & Hedrick in middle at the World Championships)

(PS) -What toll did skating take on your body and/or health? Can we clear up the rumor about you may never be able to wear skates again because your hips are shot? Also your Dad told me at regionals last month that you had a little gut goin, is this true?(lol)

(CH) - Let's just say my body doesn't work like it use to. I had hip surgery before the 2010 Olympics and I'd be lying if I said skating didn't take its toll on my body. I can wear skates just fine, I just haven’t felt like skating, been busy with other things! I don't have a gut now- I'm just not at 5% body fat anymore- more like 15% hahahaha!

(Hedrick at his annual Chad Hedrick Foundation for Special Olympics Golf Tournament)

(Above Hedrick in middle 'white shirt' with his family)

(Chad often goofing it up with wife Lynsey)

(PS) - If you could do it all over again, would you change anything and if so what?

(CH)- If I could do it again?- well if you can make me 18 again LETS DO IT! I wouldn’t change a thing as I wouldn’t be where I want to be right now!

(Above, Hedrick 3rd from left, U.S Outdoor Nationals)

(PS) -What is your biggest or favorite inline memory that comes to mind?

(CH) - My favorite inline memories are the funny ones- like starting the final sprint with 2 laps to go when you thought it was the last lap. Then coming to the finish line thinking you won and everyone passes you haha! That’s funny.

(Above Hedrick far right celebrating at the 2010 Winter Olympics for the Team Pursuit event, Silver Medal)

(PS) -Who was your biggest mentor on wheels growing up?

(CH) - I always looked up to guys that weren't necessarily the most talented but guys who were "racers" The guys that came through when it really counted. No names in particular just hard nosed confident racers.

(Above, Derek Parra & Hedrick at the OTC in Colorado, Springs, CO)

(PS) -You’re now enlisted in the U.S Roller sports speedskating hall of fame, how does that feel?

(CH) - Man I didn’t even know I was getting inducted into the hall of fame. Nobody even contacted me haha

(Hedrick a US Roller Sport indoor sensation very early on)

(PS) -Anything you would like to say to the Speedskating world and all your fans out there?

(CH) - To all those in the sport- stay with it and have a LOT of fun like I did, When you get older you'll realize how much a simple little sport taught you & a lot about what life’s about; hard work, passion, and sacrifice. And thanks to everyone that supported me throughout & to the end of my career, I truly am blessed and grateful. Thank you!

(Hedrick raises thousands of dollars each year for the Chad Hedrick Foundation & the Special Olympics)

(Above from left to right, Ipo Sanfrantello, Tony Muse, Bob Justice & Chad Hedrick in Orlando pre-race)

(Above, this pic has nothing to do with Hedrick but WOW!)

(PS) -Thanks for your time Chad, you're an inspiration to many in our sport & have been a great friend along the way. Best of luck man and take care!

Well there you have it, Chad Hedrick uncut! Stay tuned as ATOM Wheels connects you to the world's best right here at ATOM WHEELS. See you soon!

Pete Snell
Luigino USA / ATOM WHEELS
pete@luiginousa.com