Rock Town Roller Derby to host inaugural roller derby tournament in Hot Springs

Little Rock, Arkansas – Four teams are scheduled to compete in a single-day roller derby tournament that will be hosted by the only Women’s Flat Track Derby Association in central Arkansas.

The Hot Springs Convention Center’s Hall D opens for business at 10 a.m. on September 7.

There will be a press statement stating that doors will open at 9:30 am.

“Words cannot express how thrilled the league is to be bringing this amazing event to Hot Springs. This has taken a great deal of preparation and labor,” stated Grace Brown, coordinator of media relations for the tournament. “A lot of work goes into making sure the tournament runs well behind the scenes. We sincerely appreciate the support of the volunteer community in Arkansas and the surrounding areas. It really does take a village.

The Rock Town website will sell advance tickets for $15 starting on August 5 and ending at noon on September 6. The cost of tickets is $20 at the door.

The leagues participating are Cape Girardeau Roller Derby, Natural State Roller Derby of Fayetteville, Rock Town Roller Derby of Little Rock, and the Red Stick Roller Derby’s Capital Defenders of Baton Rouge. The tournament is set up as a four-game bracket.

“Like many other groups, Rock Town had intended to stage its first tournament in 2020, but Covid caused those plans to fall through. We are happy to bring roller derby to Hot Springs and are eager to spread the sport throughout central Arkansas when the league is rebuilt and grows once more. Four elite teams from three separate states will compete in this event, which is the first of its sort in Arkansas, according to League President Jessica Saum.

There are national rankings on the line in this unique competition. Every game will have two 30-minute halves separated by a 15-minute intermission.

There will also be a midday break from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. to allow racers and spectators to take in the sights and attractions of downtown Hot Springs.