Three distinct skating disciplines will compete in Albuquerque. Rink Hockey competition events occur July 11-17. With wide participation in the U.S. and abroad, rink hockey provides all of the typical hockey action and excitement without the chill of an ice arena. Speed Skating competition begins July 11 and runs through July 18. Similar to short track ice speed skating, roller sports indoor speed skating uses a 100-meter oval track for individual, and 2-person and 4-person relay events. Age groups determine distances and divisions. Figure Skating competition opens July 19 and runs through August 1. Combining athletic skills and grace, and artistically interpreted to accompanying music, skaters compete as individuals, teams, or groups, and are judged on content, technical proficiency, and artistry. Those familiar with ice figure skating will recognize many of the events including individual (singles) and pairs free skating, set pattern dance and free dance, and school figures. Additional events include show, precision team, creative solo, and quartet.
Events begin mid-morning and continue until roughly 11 p.m. each day, with each day offering something different. Younger spectators will likely find the most fun events to be the various speed, hockey, freestyle, show and creative solo events, while adults may be drawn to the dance, free dance, freestyle, and show events. No matter what, there will be something for everyone!
Tickets can be purchased at the Convention Center each day. While regular prices range from $10 for a one-day ticket to $70 for a multi-day pass, a variety of discounts are available including: one-day admission for groups of 10 people or more will be $3 per person when purchased as a group; one-day admission for individuals not in a group who present a New Mexico ID will be $5 per person; and free admission will be offered for military personnel and immediate family members (up to 4 people) with a military ID. In addition to the skating events, there will be a tradeshow area featuring equipment, costume supplies, and souvenirs, and Hall of Fame and Honors receptions will take place acknowledging excellence in and contribution to the sport. Visit usarollersports.org for detailed event schedules and additional ticket and event information.
About USARS:
USA Roller Sports (USARS) is recognized by the Federation Internationale de Roller Sports (FIRS) and the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) as the national governing body for competitive roller sports in the United States. USARS is dedicated to creating, enhancing and conducting the finest training programs and competitions for all disciplines of roller sports, including but not limited to speed, figure, hockey, and roller derby. To learn more about U