Lady Speedster's SMS came.

"Want to Nite Skate on Friday?"

Yes, I was free but rather apprehensive about my competence in accordance with the Standard of TSV; I didn't want to kill the Viruses' fun and joy during their supposed R&R by having them chaperon me any of the time.

"Any more newbies going? You sure? If you are really ok to have me, then I'll try!"

I was late. As I was running across the padang, I saw 2 fully geared-up strangers alighting from a car at the esplanade. The car then moved on and disappeared towards Shenton Way. It's so surreal to see these 2 beings skating on the road. Instinctively, I followed their direction, guessing that they are veteran nite-skaters meeting up with the team.

It turned out that I was not quite right in the above description of them; the veteran-looking nite-skaters are actually virgin nite-skaters! Together with Margaret and I, the four of us were on our maiden trip.

By the end of the evening, however, we became quite acquainted through our many adventures literally up and down Orchard Road. Besides honing our skills, I think this program is also quite effective in fostering camaraderie.

My team-mates were surprised to see me. I was nervous by their surprise. I really didn't know what I was or would be getting into. They always say they "skate down Orchard Road", of which I am only familiar walking on. I just couldn't imagine skating there physically Ð it's so out-of-place in a commercial and shopping belt. The activity and the attire certainly don't congruent.

And odd it was, to be rolling along pavements with pedestrians, sticking out like sore thumbs at traffic junctions and falling down so normally in the public's full view. But perhaps it's only my self-consciousness. I'm still very enthralled by those who moved about in their own worlds and remained oblivious to this group of different people on the street.

What I really savour is being able to stand taller than most women (in my boots) - I'm on top of the world!

To be fair, we did meet people who spotted us. Some were taken aback and not so supportive of our activity, others curious and friendly. How could they not sight us when our bodies, head-to-toe, are emitting our one and united safety precaution for the night - lights and more lights; to vie for their attention.

However, I find that our "lighting" is rather powerless against the brighter ones from the buildings, streets and traffic, rendering us less conspicuous than say, at East Coast Park. On the other hand, Jenn's whistle can be heard distinctly even in the noisy air.

For a very safe skating trip, I must credit the TSV team for taking pains in planning the simplest route, directing the traffic (both human and vehicles), slowing down to accommodate our pace and even holding our hands at some points. You deserve an ISO certification for that!

Only such meticulous organisation and adventurous spirit from one and all can cover up our bruises and broken skin and make our 1st nite-skate such a bittersweet experience.