Predicto

The Predicto TV crew wanted to attend a sporting event this summer, but didn’t want to do the predictable and see the Yankees. Instead, we did something where the players are allowed to smash into each other, knocking the other team over is part of the game and the penalty box is always busy. This is the world of women’s roller derby, and Predicto TV was invited to meet the national champion New York Gotham Girls. At a recent bout, two undefeated teams of danger-loving ladies faced off: the Bronx Gridlock in their taxicab-style uniforms, against the Manhattan Mayhem, dressed up like escapees from Rikers Island. We were treated to two hours of fun and excitement, as the Bronx dominated the action and handed Manhattan a painful loss.

We met Ginger Snap, the Gotham Girls league president and also a blocker/pivot on the Gridlock. “Everybody has a different reason for being here,” Ginger says. “It’s a combination of sport and fantasy and having your own name, but also the competition and the camaraderie… we do this all together, and you can hit somebody on the track, but you have to buy them a beer afterwards.” Gridlock pivot Dainty Inferno says, “You don’t have to be the biggest hitter, because I’m certainly not, but being able to get up from a hit, and being able to take it, over and over and dish it out, that’s the biggest thing. To get up, and keep going.” The crowd of about 2,000 that packed the Hunter College arena saw a thrilling bout, and we caught the vibe of fun and entertainment. All of the Gotham Girls answer our Predicto questions, so watch Episode 36 of Predicto TV now!