Texecutioners Speeding for Gold

Austin's own Texecutioners are braving the Wisconsin cold this weekend for a shot at Women's Flat Track Derby Association gold. In celebration, Mayor Lee Leffingwell has declared Nov. 9 Texas Rollergirls Day.

Today is the beginning of the end of the WFTDA tournament season, as the top teams in the nation and beyond fight for the Hydra cup. The Texies came out of the Richmond playoffs in September as the number one seed from that event, meaning they get a first round by, and don't hit the track until 10am tomorrow. They'll face the winner of today's historic main event, as the Atlanta Rollergirls take on the first ever international team to make it to champs, the London Rollergirls (also expect a lot of excitement track side with the most eagerly anticipated match up of the year, the rematch between Philly Roller Girls and Chicago's Windy City Rollers.)

There's little doubt that the seemingly unstoppable Gotham Girls are the team to beat. However, Texas is fielding a genuine all-star roster, with veterans like Olivia Shootin' John and Bloody Mary, plus the surprise addition of Lucille Brawl. With new blood Stone Her and Bittercup (this is, after all, the team they call the Transfercutioners) bolstering the pack, and two of the most successful Hustler minds Curvette and Me Shove working the bench, it's too early to count this Lone Star powerhouse out.

The city's proclamation gives a last minute boost to the team. Leffingwell (dubbed by the league Mayor May Not) said, "The Texas Rollergirls are at the top of their game. The league re-started the roller derby phenomenon ten years ago, and our all-stars continue to prove we’re number one."

Of course, it may be a little late to hop on a plane to support the pioneers of flat track. However, you can still catch the action at www.wftda.tv.

R