Moreda flies again: the historic Gijón speed skating rink recovers its world-class essence

ODYTA Summary

Eighteen years after hosting the 2008 World Championships, the Moreda speed skating rink in Gijón is undergoing restoration to recover the grip, glide and safety conditions that once made it a reference facility for the sport. The work is being carried out by Vesmaco, the same company that laid the original surface in 2008 using the Durflex 101 SP Roller Professional system, now homologated as Class 1 by World Skate. According to the source, the competition ring had not received any deep modification in 18 years, and continued use plus some structural movements caused damage of varying severity. Gijón City Council decided to intervene. The work includes repairing affected areas and applying new coating layers to the competition ring, aiming to restore the balance between grip and glide needed for top-level competition. The renovation also extends beyond the main oval. The inner track, previously polished cement, is receiving a specific treatment to improve adhesion, since it could become slippery in humid or wet conditions, affecting both performance and safety. The source states the inner space will then be usable more safely year-round for wheeled disciplines and other sports activities. The same Durflex 101 SP Roller Professional system is being used on both surfaces. The source frames the project not only as a technical improvement but as an investment in clubs, athletes and future generations, renewing Moreda without losing its essence.