Calgary 1st Canadian city to play host to Men's Roller Derby World Cup - Action News
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Calgary 1st Canadian city to play host to Men's Roller Derby World Cup

This weekend is the first time Canada is hosting the championship, and it's at the Acadia Recreation Complex in Calgary.

Watch out for John Travoltage and Hurtcules at Men's Roller Derby World Cup

Men's Roller Derby World Cup hits Calgary

8 years ago
Duration 0:47
Competitive flat track roller derby dates back to the early 20th century

Calgary isthe first city in Canada to playhost to aMen's Roller Derby World Cup.

The four day event,whichgot underway on Thursday at the Acadia Recreation Centre, has a roster of competitors from five continents with cheeky derby names likeJohnTravoltage, HurtVonnegutsandHurtcules.

In 2014, Team Canada placed third at the first Mens Roller Derby World Cup in Birmingham, England. (John Hesse/Facebook)

Team USA is the reigning World Cup champion, but Team Canadais confident in their chances.

"We finished third last time,but our goal is the gold medal game. We think we can do it," said Team Canada captainJeffTichbourne.

Team France takes on Team Puerto Rico on Thursday in Calgary at the Men's Roller Derby World Cup. (Atiba Nelson/CBC)

Roller Derby 101

Competitive flat track roller derby dates back to the early 20th century.

Two teams compete on an oval track, with each team fielding five players. Each team selects a jammera scoring player while the other four players on the team are blockers.

Jammers score points by lapping the opposing team's members. A game, or "bout,"consists of two 30-minute periodswith multiple two-minute "jamsessions" in a period.

Team Puerto Rico struts their stuff at the opening ceremonies of the 2016 Men's Roller Derby World Cup in Calgary. (John Hesse/Facebook)

All points are scored duringjam sessions. Blockers can usetheir bodiesand various formations to block and disrupt the jammers however, they will be penalized ifthey make any contact withtheir hands, elbows or feet.

"Although it seems chaotic,the easiest way to understand the game is to sit with someone who does and they'll explain it. Roller Derby fans love helping people learn thegame," saidTichbourne.

There are bouts happening all weekend, with the final game onJuly 24 at 7 p.m. atthe Acadia Recreation Complex.

The Eyeopener's Atiba Nelson talks to competitors at this year's Men's Roller Derby World Cup here in Calgary.

With files from the Calgary Eyeopener