The World Skate Games took place in Italy this year, bringing together an energetic, global skating community. Teams from 12 different Skating Sports, including roller derby and scootering, competed at a single venue. The event attracted over 12,000 attendees, including athletes, coaches, and delegates from 100 countries. This year’s World Skate Games are undoubtedly a highlight on the sporting calendar.
A Brief History
The journey of World Skate began on April 21, 1924, with the founding of the Fédération Internationale de Patinage a Roulettes (FIPR). Initially, it focused solely on rink hockey. Over the decades, however, the federation expanded. By 1936, it held its first World Championship and later added disciplines like speed skating and inline hockey. In the 1960s, it rebranded to the Fédération Internationale de Roller Skating (FIRS). Then, in 2017, it officially became World Skate. Today, World Skate oversees multiple Roller Sports, including skateboarding, which debuted in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. It will also feature in the 2024 Paris and 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Overview of the World Skate Games
The World Skate Games offer a showcase of Skating Sports in all their diversity. Traditional roller skating takes center stage alongside competitive formats like Roller Free-Style, featuring acrobatic performances. Scootering tests participants’ agility, while Speed Skating offers thrilling, fast-paced inline races. Meanwhile, Skate Cross adds a new level of excitement with timed obstacle races. Downhill events challenge skaters on steep slopes, and precision-based Slalom demands technical skill. Rink Hockey delivers fast, intense action, and Inline Hockey offers a roller version of ice hockey. Roller Derby captivates with its high-contact races. Artistic Skating combines dance and skating, creating beautiful, choreographed routines—all of which O2 Sports Insurance proudly insures.
The High-Risk Nature of Skating Sports
Of course, Skating Sports come with inherent risks, and the World Skate Games are no exception. For example, roller hockey players face high-speed collisions, stick and puck impacts, and hard falls that can lead to concussions, fractures, or cuts. Similarly, Roller Derby, known for its physical play, exposes participants to frequent falls and body checks. Injuries range from bruises to fractures and concussions.
To manage these risks, strict safety protocols are essential:
- Protective Gear Requirements: Participants must wear helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, wrist guards, and mouthguards. Some sports also require additional gear, such as face shields for roller hockey or padded suits for downhill skating.
- Medical and Emergency Services: On-site medical teams, including doctors and paramedics, are ready to provide immediate care. Emergency evacuation plans ensure quick transportation to hospitals when needed.
- Venue and Equipment Safety: Venues and equipment undergo regular inspections to meet safety standards. Tracks and arenas are designed with padded surfaces, barriers, and spacious layouts to reduce risks.
The Role of Sports Insurance at the World Skate Games
Given the high-risk nature of Skating Sports and the large audience, having reliable Insurance coverage is essential for effective risk management. A customized policy that covers the unique risks of Skating events provides peace of mind against accidents or lawsuits. An Excess Accident Medical Policy helps cover medical expenses that exceed standard Insurance limits. Meanwhile, a General Liability Policy insures against third-party liability, such as spectator injuries during the event.
Conclusion
The World Skate Games 2024 were extraordinary, with Organizations working tirelessly to manage risks—including ensuring they had the right Insurance coverage. O2 Sports Insurance provides customized, comprehensive policies to meet the needs of Teams, organizations, and events. Call us at (855) 351-0202 for a free quote and secure your own customized policy with O2 Sports Insurance!