The names are all in and the plane tickets have been bought. Around the world, skaters are once again turning their attention to Philadelphia where the greatest rollerbladers in the world will converge for X Games VIII. It hardly seems like it's been a year since Jeron Grob and Taig Kris took the gold medals in their respective fields, but time doesn't lie. And neither do the good people at ESPN who have bent over backwards to make this year's X Games bigger and more bone-crushing than ever.

Let's take a look at some of the names you should know by heart: On vert, the clearest threat comes from the Japanese Yasutoko brothers. Takeshi, only a few years younger than Eito, has won every competition this year. With his flat spin 720s and unflinching consistency, he is the one to beat. He has won every vert comp this year and it doesn't look like he's going to quit now. Of course, his older brother just learned a double backflip 180. Then there is France's Taig Kris. This year, he unveiled the gato spin and the double backflip to thunderous applause around the world. He is currently attempting high air records in Europe that will bring skating to a new level. As the incumbent X Games champion, he is determined to hold on to the gold in Philly. I'm sure Shane Yost will have something to say about that though. Already known for his focus and drive in the competition arena, he is taking contests more seriously than ever, pulling higher airs and more consistent lip tricks. And in case you forgot about him during his year off with a broken arm, Cesar Mora is making a huge comeback with a more refined style and airs that blast well over head height. Just to keep things interesting for the viewers, there will be a few stunt men in attendance. There's Beni Huber whose style is revered by the judges. And Matt Lindenmuth, whose double backflip attempts at last year's Games earned him only heartbreak and of course Jeron Grob, who is always good for a show.

Matt Lindy off the pallet drop on the ASA Pro Tour.

On street, the name of the game is technical. Since Jeron's victory last summer, a whole new style has come to the forefront, one that rings with technique and difficulty. There are less straight airs and more transfers. Less simple rails and more combination switch-ups. Grinds are more technical too. Spins onto ledges and transfers out. It'll be more confusing for the casual observer of rollerblading, but far more interesting for the rollerblader.

A newcomer to the professional ranks, Cameron Card threw everything he had earlier this year in Dallas and took the gold right out from under the veterans. He has a quick style and he's not afraid to try anything. Dominic Sagona won the ASA comp in Del Mar wearing one black skate, one white skate and the fashion sense of a New York bike messenger. His skating is creative and stylish, a melange of real street finesse and competition know-how. Blake Dennis has been around for years, but it wasn't until this year that the judges really began to take notice. He skates with the machine gun style that put Australia on the map, attacking every section of the street course with trick after trick. Fellow Australian Ian Brown is another contender with potential to medal. His technical strength combined with an aggressive style insures that he won't be left far behind. Then there are the new Europeans. After the European X Qualifiers, there is no doubt in anyone's mind that Bruno Loewe and Stephane Alfano will be turning up the heat.

This year, the women have their own street event. It's a head to head event between Martina and Fabiola, whose reputations have earned them an event to themselves.

For the first time in years, the inline street comp promises to be one of the most exciting events at the Games. Huge stunts on vert and technical wizardry on street. And a gripping tension over the whole competition. After an unfortunate crash in Wisconsin sent Jeron Grob to the hospital, there is no guarantee of any outcome. It's anybody's event. And if ESPN gives it any airtime whatsoever, it'll be one that you remember.