Wanganui roller derby skater Mel McGhie has gone from novice to national prominence in just three years after being named in the New Zealand squad to prepare for the World Cup in Texas this year.
Just three years ago, McGhie admits, she was one of the white-knuckle brigade clinging to the railings in an effort to remain upright as she learned to skate at the Hatrick St roller rink.
Once she gained confidence and began moving at pace on eight wheels, she joined the fledgling River City Rollers to battle it out on the boards in the rough and tumble world of roller derby. She bravely renamed herself Mel-icious Mayhem for game time.
Within a relatively short time, and with limited match experience, McGhie was named captain for the River City Rollers during much of last year's competition while also filling the head coach role.
And when the call went out for skaters to try out for the New Zealand squad at three main centres late last year, McGhie put her skates on and travelled to Wellington in December.