ROLLERrewind "ANY GIVEN SUNDAY" Johnny Sharp Brookpark Skateland

[jkennedy312]

Some of my fondest memories involve watching the flea-hoppers at the Euclid Skating Rink circa the 60's. Never did learn how to do it but I loved watching it.

[Music2Die4]

If you watch skating session videos on YouTube, you'll notice one striking element of the Flea Hop- The music's rhythm naturally generates "speed" amongst the skaters. The "boogie" style was tailor-made for skating.

Other things I miss about skating in N. Ohio: 1) "Fast skating" in general was never discouraged during the "all skates." 2) Before the session, instead of waiting in line outside to be let in the building, you're inside with skates on, waiting to be allowed on the floor.

[Music2Die4]

It was depressing when I found out, by skating at rinks around the country, the "flea hop" was confined to roller skating in Northern Ohio. Elsewhere, skaters never even heard of the "flea hop."

Whenever I tried the "flea hop" elsewhere, the floor guards put a stop to it. "Too daring."

I think the "flea hop" was by far the most-exciting roller session "specialty" ever conceived. It also inspired a skating music style that bucked the "boring" stereotype. Too bad it wasn't more widespread.