Roller skating could be next exciting Olympic sport

So I've been watching the Olympics, and weren't they grand? The strength and courage of the swimmers and track stars, the breathtaking exercises of the gymnasts, and the beauty of the Paris backdrop.

Yes, the Olympics have everything, everything but one thing.

Where were the skaters? Where were those dedicated athletes that bring us elegance and beauty along with daring freestyle routines that require both speed and strength.

I'm confused, you say? Ice skating is in the Winter Games!

You’re confused, I say. I refer to figure skating on wheels, the sport in which I took part for the better part of two decades, in spite of never having had the pleasure of seeing if taken to new heights in the Olympic Games. I competed in "figure eights" as we used to call them and roller dance events, while all around me were freestyle skaters executing jumps and spins, and elegant dance teams skating to perfectly timed music in order cover intricate dance patterns. Add to that speed and hockey teams and there is something for everyone.

Roller sports would fit right in to the Summer Games. No ice required.

USA Roller Sports is online and could describe all the facets of roller skating better than I.

Sara McDermott

Cedar Rapids