Roller Kings is turning to data and technology to help Kenyan skaters improve their performance and move closer to professional competition, following the successful fourth edition of its quarterly speed skating competition held at the Two Rivers Sports District in Ruaka last weekend.
The event marked a major step forward for the private skating academy, with the competition expanding its regional reach and introducing a Senior Category for the first time. Skaters from neighbouring Uganda also took part in the competition, adding a regional dimension to an event that continues to grow within Kenya’s developing skating community.
Technology Takes Centre Stage
One of the biggest developments at this year’s competition was the introduction of an official skating database designed to record the performance of every participating athlete.
The system will capture detailed information, including racers’ times and speeds across different distances. Organisers believe the database will provide useful records that can help athletes, coaches and skating organisations track progress over time.
Roller Kings administrator Stella Mbuthia said the new system would also help the sport attract greater support by providing reliable performance data that can be used when engaging potential sponsors and partners. The availability of accurate statistics will allow skaters to assess their performances more effectively and identify areas where they need to improve.
Coaches Welcome the New System
Senior coach and athlete Bernice Muthoni welcomed the introduction of the database, describing it as an important development for speed skating. According to Muthoni, having detailed records of athletes’ short- and long-distance race times will provide valuable information for coaches and competitors as they work towards improving performance. The data will also make it easier to monitor an athlete’s development over time and prepare competitors for higher-level events.
New Certification System Introduced
Roller Kings also changed how athletes are recognised at its competitions. Instead of awarding certificates based solely on participation, the academy introduced a merit-based certification system that highlights podium finishes and individual achievements.
The organisers believe the new approach will encourage skaters to compete more strongly and aim for better results, while giving athletes credentials that reflect their actual performance.
Regional Growth for Speed Skating
The fourth edition demonstrated the growing interest in speed skating beyond Nairobi, with athletes from Uganda joining Kenyan competitors. The regional participation is expected to contribute to greater competition and expose local skaters to athletes from neighbouring countries.
Roller Kings continues to position itself at the centre of Kenya’s growing skating community, with its competitions providing young and emerging athletes with opportunities to develop their skills and gain competitive experience.
Focus Shifts to Rwanda Championship
With the fourth edition now complete, attention is turning to next year’s Rwanda Championship. Roller Kings athletes are expected to use the newly collected performance data as they prepare for the competition, allowing them and their coaches to identify strengths, track improvements and work on areas that require additional attention.
The upcoming championship will be open exclusively to registered Roller Kings members as the academy continues to build a structured pathway for athletes seeking to compete at higher levels. The long-term ambition is to strengthen Kenya’s presence in speed skating and ultimately help athletes pursue opportunities on the Olympic stage.
