Jo Hudson

The 11th January 2015 came round sooner than expected. After weeks of preparation, finding dresses, adding stones to them and getting a fake tan it suddenly dawned on me that I had entered my first Ballroom and Latin competition. It was an early start to make sure my hair and make up were just right, the car was triple checked and we were off. We arrived in Bournemouth with plenty of time to spare, but having to wait to enter the Pavilion my nerves quickly kicked in. Finally the doors were opened and I made my way through to the Ballroom and the other DanceRite dancers.

It was a quick change in to my Ballroom dress, ready to warm up and practice before the under 35’s Social Dance Test competition began. We collected our numbers and were divided in to two rounds, unfortunately for me I managed to be given a number one. Before I knew it I was being whisked onto the floor by Fred, the music started and we were off. As the music came to an end all was a blur and I couldn’t quite believe I had danced in front of so many people. Taking my seat I was happy with my accomplishment and my mind turned to the Cha-cha-cha I had for the Latin competition, I even managed to relax and enjoy watching the other dancers float across the floor.

All of a sudden I was told to listen for my number as it was recall time. I had entered this competition hoping that one day I would win a prize and this was just a warm up. I was amazed when I heard my number and realised I had made a semi final. Once again off we went and I enjoyed every single minute. After what seemed to be a lifetime waiting, but having the opportunity to admire my fellow DanceRite dancers and seeing the joy on their faces waving yellow slips the final recalls were being announced. Thankfully Fred and Vicki were there to listen as I was stunned when my number was called out. I had made a final at my first ever competition, taking hold and managing a few smiles I danced myself through that final. It was time to find out about that yellow slip, a qualifying ‘ticket’ to the ISTD Finals in October. I was delighted to be handed my 4th place trophy.

Jo & Ellie

It was time to change and sneak in a practice before the tempo increased and the Latin rounds started. Ballroom is my true love so I didn’t feel so comfortable this time. Taking to the floor in my first round I felt like a rabbit caught in headlights, but something kicked in and I managed to get through. As the semi final recalls were made I missed my number being read out and only realised when Fred ushered me onto the floor. Recalls were being announced much quicker this time and before I knew it the final recalls were in progress. Totally out of the blue my number was called and this time I had the privilege of dancing against another DanceRite dancer, Ellie. All I can really remember is standing on the floor with Vicki and telling her I wasn’t sure I could do this, thankfully the music started and I realised I was in my second final and qualifying for Blackpool. It was a very surreal moment getting my 5th place trophy, exhausted doesn’t even come close to how I was feeling but it was time for me to go home and back to reality.

It all still seems like a dream and only looking back at photos can I remember what I achieved. DanceRite had a fantastic day and I’m looking forward to my next competition and hopefully finding a dance partner, but above all seeing my DanceRite friends again, who supported me though the day.

Results

1st – 4
2nd – 4
3rd – 6
4th – 5
6th – 6
7th – 1

Semi – 12

Pictures

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