A few months ago it was announced that a couples competition was being organised at the Blackpool Tower ballroom. This was the first time dancers would have the opportunity to compete here since the last event moved away in 2010, so we were obviously excited at the prospect.
It turns out we weren’t the only ones. In January all seats were sold and an extra 300 shipped in and by the day standing only tickets were being sold, we would be in for a marathon.
The children’s events commenced at 8am, when we entered the ballroom at 2pm, they had already been dancing for six hours. The place was packed, everyone excited and the atmosphere amazing. The adult dancers had been advised that due to huge entries they wouldn’t start until 8pm. The first sequence event was at 9.19pm with the prize presentation taking place, as per timetable, at 12.20am.
During that time Stuart and Andrea secured second place in both the Senior Modern Sequence Senior Classical Sequence Grand Prix events. These were hard fought competitions and to secure two second places was a brilliant achievement.
In the social modern sequence there were three rounds. Chris and Allison achieved a well deserved recall to the semi final. Neil and Carla came fourth and Andrew and Dawn sixth.
In the over 35yrs Classical Sequence, Neil and Carla came second and Andrew and Dawn third.
Everyone danced above their normal level, inspired by the amazing setting and history of the occasion. It was a true first that everyone will remember being there for.
I’m sure there were lots of very tired people on Monday (and probably Tuesday as well!) but come next year we’ll all be there again not wanting to miss the privilege of dancing at such aworld renowned ballroom.