Africa’s highest-ranked roller derby league is inviting Joburg adults to experience the fast-paced sport, with no previous skating experience required.
Johannesburg, South Africa (06 September 2026) – If your usual weekend workout involves a treadmill, a set of weights or a jog around the neighbourhood, Joburg has another option for you.
Golden City Rollers (GCR), Africa’s highest-ranked roller derby league, is inviting adults to give the sport a try at a free Open Day on Sunday, 13 September 2026.
And no, you don’t need to arrive already knowing how to skate.
Roller derby is played on quad roller skates, with two teams racing around an oval track. Each team has a jammer whose job is to get through the opposing blockers and score points, while the rest of the team works to stop the opposition from doing the same.
The Open Day is designed to give people a proper taste of the sport, starting with a live exhibition game before visitors get the chance to meet GCR members, ask questions and find out more about joining the league.
Then things get a little more hands-on.
Those willing to give it a go can start with Land Derby, an on-foot introduction to some of the basic movements and rules. From there, newcomers can get onto quad skates and test out their skating skills with help from experienced GCR members.
GCR’s September intake is open to anyone aged 18 and over, regardless of gender, body type or sporting background.
And if the thought of getting knocked around on the track isn’t exactly your idea of fun, there’s still a place for you.
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And there’s some serious history behind the league too.
Founded in Johannesburg in 2010, Golden City Rollers was the first modern roller derby league established on the African continent. Today, its competitive team holds the highest ranking in Africa, with GCR skaters having competed in countries including Mexico, the United States, Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark.
The league has also played a major role in South African roller derby, with its skaters historically making up much of Team South Africa’s squads at the Roller Derby World Cup in 2014, 2018 and 2025.
So, if you’re looking for something a little different, this might be your sign to trade those tekkies for skates. You might just find your new favourite way to move.
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