Chicago, IL Access to Speed Workshop, July 5 - 7, 2002 Click on an image to see it full size with a description.

The Access to Speed Workshop provided entertainment aplenty to participants and onlookers alike in skate-crazy Chicago, IL, July 5-7 2002. Not only did skaters flex their smile muscles as often as their skating ones, but curious passers-by and binocular-scoping appartment dwellers watched like avid sportsfans.

A skating rink at the Richard Daley Millenium Plaza served as the prime incubation grounds for developing skaters. Workshoppers like Marla used the railing to break stroke components down to the basics and support herself while trying gutsy new moves like the crossover.

"Like taking a tennis lesson with Rod Laver," said one participant. "Better than I ever expected," testified another.

The workshop was just plain inspirational. For one, the location with its stellar city-scape views promoted an open atmosphere conducive to learning. Furthermore, the sheer will and drive of its participants made everybody push themselves to the utmost.

Kevin shared his digs for the traditional potluck dinner and hot-seat critique. Hostess Heidi made her famous turkey chili to fuel workshoppers to higher and higher states of valence on Sunday.

The stage race was exciting stuff. Teams and individuals raced time-trial style before everybody met at the line for the grand finale.

Salomon palm sliders and blinkie lights, TWINCAM ABEC-5 bearings, Explore 80mm race wheels, Transpack packlets and prizes, Wigwam socks, Raymond Verdaguer t-shirts, and Bobward Flynn's and Barrie Hartman's good cheer were spread generously at the workshop.

	Heidi-Lo		Assembly		Mr. Squeegee
	Passing inside		Julie Mantis		Help me!
	Chuck flies		Anti-race		Tracksters
	Chase on!		Turn simulator		Salomon blasts
	Spirited team		Racing blue		Leaders

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