Alexandra Londoño aka MoonSun, is a talented roller skater that for the past decade has been simultaneously playing roller derby and park skating in Bogotá, Colombia.

This interview is about her experience in both disciplines in Colombia and her advice to new skaters out there!

Q: When did you start skating?

I started skating approximately 14 years ago, I started in the world of roller derby where I learned to skate. After 4 years on wheels, I discovered park roller skating and started practicing it. It was not that well known yet, but it was beautiful to start this experience from scratch.

Q: How do you feel that roller derby and aggressive roller skating complement each other?

Although they are two sports on quads, these are different modalities with different skills, however one complements the other from a technical point of view. Flat track skating has taught me good reflexes, having basic skating skills, and knowing how to fall. This has given me an advantage in park roller skating. Likewise, roller skating requires a lot of core work. I learned agility and dexterity that I never thought I would achieve. They have complemented each other so much that I no longer feel the difference when skating derby or ramps, my body and feet adapt to each discipline.

Q: What has been the biggest challenge of skating in Colombia?

It was a big financial challenge, getting my first professional derby skates was quite a process. For Colombia and Latin America, due to their economy, it is difficult to get quality skates and accessories at a good price. Now in these times they have worked to improve and have more options for future generations. I worked on being able to obtain every screw and accessory I have by giving value and respect to every person who supports me on this path.

Q: What are your favorite tricks?

My favorite tricks are quite a few, but I can make a top 5: 50/50 / Topacid / Mitzou / Kindgrind / Alleyoop soul. I have an obsession with ledge or rail grinds. I want to learn more.

Q: What is your preference: transition or street?

My love for the bowl is really great, the park has taught me many things from control, speed, technique that every time I go, I must skate it. However little by little I am getting to know the world of street, a process that I have been doing slowly but that I am enjoying feeling comfortable and without pressure. I think that skating should continue to be a safe place and I do it where I feel happy and comfortable. Learning from my friends everywhere I go.

Q: What advice would you give to beginners?

My usual advice is to enjoy the process, value each progress and respect your level so you can move forward and achieve everything you set out to do. It is important to learn to skate and polish your technique on a flat track and in small places that will make you more technical and never ever measure your level with other skaters. We are all different and you will progressively achieve the level you want.

OG: @moonsunwitch_ 

Roller Derby Photo by Laura Andrade