Lizzie Armanto

“Why are women… so much more interesting to men than men are to women?” - Virginia Woolf

Ladies actually carry the weight of the world most of the time. Periodically men will step in if it helps to strengthen their ego… but for the most part, women carry the world on frail shoulders. The Vans Girls Combi Pool Classic approaches this weekend. It is the yearly gathering of the ladies. They pad up and put it all on the line. I’ve watched and written about the last several contests and I must say that I’ve been impressed. More girls are skating and the level of technicality is on the rise. I was at Vans tonight to watch some practice sessions. Each year, Ray Zimmerman and I go over and see who is doing what. It gives me an idea of what to expect contest day. Homework.

Lizzie Armanto was there along with numerous other female rippers of varying ages. She was throwing down. I spoke with her regarding the recent accident suffered by last years winner, Allysha Bergado. Allysha is laid up and won’t be competing. We wish her a speedy recovery. Mimi Knoop is out of the contest as well with an injury.

Lizzie frowned about it all but is undaunted. She said that she just wants to see everyone skating together and having fun. The future is undecided. Uncharted territory. There are girls out there right now with eyes on the prize. Saturday looms on the horizon and at dusk the future will be told. Good luck ladies. Thanks to MRZ for the images. Skate - Ozzie