Ana Cheng
Chaya Derby Pro Team
Name: Ana Cheng
Nickname: Jaramillo
Country: USA
Current Location: Atlanta, GA
Loving to skate since: 2010
Riding for Chaya/PS since: 2016
Current Skate Setup: Custom pearl boot, Chaya Shiva clip (20 deg), Juice Jolts, Wicked Hardware ABEC 9 bearings
Why do you love to skate? I am a habitual overthinker and multitasker. Skating forces me to focus on my body and what I’m doing at the moment. When I’m on the track, all the buzzing in my brain quiets down.
What keeps you pushing forward in skating? Derby requires you to adapt to a situation that changes from second to second. I get bored easily, so the challenge of succeeding in a jam is really exciting. The entire sport is also constantly shifting—teams and strategies change all the time, so every season is something different.
What was your greatest success? Juggling derby with school obligations (during high school, college, and now grad school)
What is your favorite competition? I love Playoffs. It’s exciting to implement all the skills and strategies that we’ve been working on as a team all season.
What is your favorite move/trick? It always feels really satisfying to hop over a blocker’s feet/hips on the line.
What advice would you like to give? If you put your skates and gear in a closet with a dehumidifier after practice, it won’t smell.
Any hobbies outside of skating? House plants, reading, journaling, crafting
What is your favorite moment in skating? The post-game hugs with my teammates
Tell us about your personal philosophy, phrase, ethic, and/or value as a skater! Yes, you can write a book…? I live and die by “work smarter not harder.” I weigh 110 lbs. I will always be up against skaters who are bigger and stronger than me, so it doesn’t do me any good to waste time and energy on the track trying to brute force my way through a pack. I’m more successful (and less tired) if I play to my strengths by juking and taking advantage of holes when they open up.
