Shake, Rattle, and Roller Derby

Roller derby is a bit like jai-alai: it’s fast, dangerous, and casual spectators don’t really understand the rules. Of course, that’s where the similarities end, because everything that’s intrinsically cool about the sport is precisely what makes derby so unique. Where else can you see legions of fearless gals on...

By Jamie Laughlin

April 3, 2008

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Roller derby is a bit like jai-alai: it’s fast, dangerous, and casual spectators don’t really understand the rules. Of course, that’s where the similarities end, because everything that’s intrinsically cool about the sport is precisely what makes derby so unique. Where else can you see legions of fearless gals on skates whip around a rink, tackling anyone who gets in their way? Nowhere.

This weekend you can decide who your favorite local roller derby team is and then cheer them on to victory in the Sunshine State Smackdown: two days of fast women, loose wheels, live bands, pudding wrestling, burlesque, and fire eating. (And you were going to stay home with TiVo?) Four teams are competing for both the title and your affections: the Broward County Derby Grrls (www.bcdg.net), the Indian River Derby Girls (www.myspace.com/southfloridarollergirls), and two teams of tenacious ladies from the Molly Rangers Rollergirls. Both Saturday’s and Sunday’s competitions run from 6 to 10 p.m. at Gold Coast Skating Rink (2604 S. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale) and feature halftime shows with live bands. But on Saturday, when the skates come off, the party starts. Chrome Bar and Bourgets have joined forces with the derby gals to throw a block party of epic proportions. The Saturday matches and the block party are both free; Sunday’s bouts are a meager $5 to attend. Visit www.bcdg.net.
Sat., April 5; Sun., April 6, 2008

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