ARGENTINA
What was just supposed to be a day of fun became a drive to compete for Loryn Roberson. Taking part in an event in Goldendale, Washington Loryn is now bound for Argentina this month to participate in the World Skate Games.
Loryn, a native from Beaverton now taking residence in Colorado, started skating in 2010. Five years later she would accomplish a monumental milestone, ranking third in the world during an international racing circuit put on by the IDF (International Downhill Federation) in 2015. The circuit took Loryn across the world, skating in locations such as Czech Republic, Norway, Switzerland, and Costa Rica as she gained points for the World Championship.
“I wasn’t even looking to qualify, I was just doing the event for fun,” Loryn said about her trip to Goldendale, Washington.
Loryn spent nearly five years off to focus on her career before returning to active competition. The trip to Goldendale was only meant as a fun day out and to see if she could still hang with the best. That changed when she took fourth among 25 women, third in the U.S. for the event. Loryn’s stupendous ability to skate never wavered in her absence, giving Loryn confidence and drive to pursue qualification.
There were three qualifying events held in various locations across the United States. The first was held in California, the second in Goldendale, Washington, and the last was in Vermont. To qualify for the World Skate Games Loryn would have to rank in two of the three events. Having missed the California event, the Vermont trip was Loryn’s last chance.
“Now I’m back and ready to give it my all,” Loryn replied containing her excitement and joy the best she could.
Leading to the race in Vermont, friends and family, including fellow skater Ashley Winecoff, pushed Loryn to put her best effort forward. The amount of support she has received since her first qualification event has kept Loryn’s mind focused and her mentality razor sharp, a blissing Loryn feels highly grateful for. The race in Vermont was a huge success. Loryn improved taking third place, a seed higher than her placement in Goldendale.
When asked about her training schedule in preparation for the World Skate Games, Loryn simply replied dedication. “The biggest thing is just skating,” Loryn said.
Loryn wakes up at sun break and begins her morning skating for anywhere from five to 15 miles. Loryn also spends time in the gym for increased fitness and health.
Film study is another way Loryn prepares, mentally, for the event.
Knowing the features of a track is a huge boost to game planning and preparation; one Loryn takes very serious as she analyzes the course’s terrain.
Equipment has changed over time, especially since Loryn’s last adventure in skating five years ago. To push for a victory at the World Skate Games, Loryn has committed to an investment in updating her gear, measuring herself for a new suit, helmet, and skateboard among other things.
Financially, Loryn has taken to working with sponsors and has created a funding project to help fund her endeavor. If interested in contributing in support of Loryn, go to www.gofund.me/c0705c64.
“Proud, determined, supported,” Loryn said when asked about the emotions she’s felt since qualifying.
Loryn expressed great gratitude for the community support she has received. She stated she feels privileged and honored by others belief in her passion and willingness to help. “I want to give it all I have,” Loryn stated. Loryn looks forward to participating in the event starting next Tuesday, November 8 and the chance to reunite with friends from all over the world, friends and competitors she has not seen in some time.