Falkirk, Scotland: Hour 15 of 24skate #11


Our Solstice Skate and 24hr Skate around the World events were both a success and well attended. Participants met at the fabulous Kelpies at 10:30pm for our round of the 24hr skate. Rod Stewart was playing at the nearby Falkirk Football Stadium, which afforded a great background soundtrack! There were even some fireworks for us to enjoy. After some socialising, skate-dancing, slalom cones and sightseeing (for those who hadn't yet seen the Kelpies) we skated en-masse through the warm evening air on the super-smooth paths alongside the canal toward the Helix Park.

After the participants (along with more folks who joined us at the park) registered with our officials it was time to get going with our hour of the 24hr skate, with encouragement from some happy revellers walking back from the Rod Stewart concert!

Skating a circuit around the Lagoon and Great Lawn, we all had a number and registered our laps with our officials every time we came around. This was the place to stop for a quick drink of water, and a chat with the spectators etc. if you weren't pushing yourself too hard.

The 38 skaters involved were a diverse bunch from all genres, with a huge mix of abilities too. Some folks did 1 or 2 laps, some did up around 18 within the hour. Some had a social chat while skating, some motored around trying to beat previous personal bests. Each circuit was 0.76 of a mile. Our total was 251 miles and we raised £105 for UNICEF.

We couldn't have asked for better weather on the evening and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. The atmosphere was one of fun and encouragement and it was fantastic to see even very new skaters coming out and giving it their best shot.

We're already looking forward to next year!

Gregor


[Clemens: Here is a selection of the wonderful photos Gregor sent to me:]








History of this page:
29th of June 2014: First version