Paris, Skate Crazy

The French Skate Revolutionaries first dragged their blades out onto the streets in 1997 AD, putting the fear of youth into the hearts of Paris conservatives yet again.
Now an expanding institution throughout Europe as well as in different French cities, on a good Friday up to 30,000 speed freaks strap on their turbo wheels in front of Montparnasse station and set off under the guidance of police and marshals [in yellow sweaters] at 10pm.
The Friday night session is a serious 30km[19 miles] in 3 hours, travelling a different route on each occasion, but always supported by ambulances as well as guides. Beginners are not tolerated and will be asked to drop out by the tortues [tortoise marshals] at the back.
However Sunday skate runs [pictured above] are slower and more tolerant, meeting at La Place de la Bastille at 2.30pm.
Other French cities that also conduct skate power sessions are Lille, Marseilles, Lyon, Rennes, Bordeaux, Toulouse, Nice, Rouen.
If you wish to participate you must be able to control downhill speed and are advised to wear full protective clothing, carry water and don't forget your INSURANCE!

Paris Information | Paris Pictures

Picture by Ikuko Koga