Logan City Speed Skaters Set for International Test at Namwon Korea Open

Logan City Speed will be strongly represented on the international stage this month, with seven of its athletes set to compete at the 2026 Namwon Korea Open in South Korea — an event that continues to attract top talent from across the globe  .

Held annually in Namwon, the competition has grown into a major fixture on the international inline speed skating calendar, bringing together athletes from a wide range of countries and competitive levels.

A Strong Contingent Heading Overseas

The club’s travelling group spans multiple age divisions, highlighting both the depth and development of Logan City Speed’s athlete pathway.

Competing at the event will be:

• Elementary Division: Lily O’Neil

• Middle School Division: Jaxon Hanson, Lillie Clancy, Bailey Bowling

• High School Division: Alyvia Samia

• University & Business (Senior Division): Milo Montoya, Zoe Martin

Also travelling with the team is Samon Lee, the club’s Secretary, who will be supporting the athletes on the ground. Samon is also widely recognised within the sport as part of the PPSS Skate Bag team and is a growing presence in athlete development and support — the one behind the scenes making the magic happen.

A Milestone Moment for the Club

The size of the travelling group marks a significant moment for Logan City Speed, representing one of the largest international contingents the club has seen in recent years.

Importantly, four of the athletes will be experiencing their first international competition — a step that signals both personal progression and the continued growth of the club’s development system.

While the athletes will compete under the PPSS Skate Bag banner, their journey to this point has been shaped through their training and development within Logan City Speed.

For the club, the opportunity to see its athletes transition from local competition to the international stage is a reflection of years of commitment, both from the skaters themselves and the broader club environment.

Beyond Competition: The Experience Factor

For many of the athletes, the Namwon Korea Open represents more than just a race programme.

The opportunity to compete against international fields, experience different racing styles, and engage with athletes from other countries is seen as a key part of their development.

There is also excitement around the cultural experience that comes with travelling abroad — with athletes and supporters alike looking forward to exploring a new environment, meeting new people, and embracing everything the event has to offer.

And it has been joked within the group that the travelling support crew is equally enthusiastic about sampling Korea’s renowned food scene — with hopes that the schedule allows them to enjoy it without missing any of the on-track action.

Growth Through Challenge

Preparation for the event has reflected a clear shift in mindset among the athletes.

Since committing to the trip, each skater has approached training with increased focus and intent, recognising the demands of competing at an international level.

More than just physical readiness, the emphasis has been on personal growth — developing resilience, handling pressure, and building the confidence required to perform in a high-level environment.

The Namwon Korea Open is widely regarded as a challenging competition, and the athletes are fully aware of the step up in intensity.

However, it is precisely this level of competition that provides the greatest opportunity for growth.

Regardless of results, the experience is expected to leave a lasting impact — with each athlete returning with greater knowledge, confidence, and a clearer understanding of what is required to compete on the world stage.

The Role of PPSS Skate Bag

The athletes will compete under the PPSS Skate Bag banner, a team that continues to play a positive role within the sport by creating opportunities for skaters to train, travel, and compete at higher levels.

Through initiatives that bring together developing athletes and experienced competitors, PPSS Skate Bag is contributing to broader athlete development within the inline speed skating community.

Logan City Speed acknowledged the importance of such opportunities, noting that support from teams and organisations across the sport plays a key role in helping athletes progress beyond local competition.

A Club United in Support

As the team prepares to depart, there is a strong sense of pride within the Logan City Speed community.

The athletes may be competing internationally under a different banner, but their development, preparation, and journey remain closely tied to the club.

With the group set to depart this Sunday, the message from the club is clear — full support, high expectations for effort, and excitement for what lies ahead.

For Logan City Speed, this is more than just an international trip.

It is a sign of progress.

A reflection of growth.

And a glimpse of what the future may hold

Photo credits to - Bernadine Geary Photography https://www.facebook.com/share/1CSDx5HKVw/?mibextid=wwXIfr