THE DUTCH OPEN Day 4 Sunday 11th November

Tonight a truly epic Dutch Open came to a close with a hint of sadness but lots of optimism. A spectacular after-party cementing friendship and love fo dance is in full swing right now.  It is almost impossible to capture the Assen atmosphere in words.
 If you missed this year make a note now of the 2019 dates and plan to be there.  It will be an experience to remember for ever.

The Dutch Open  4th to 10th November, 2019.

The day began with the Dutch Amateur League events in the 2n Ballroom the Purple room  and DJ Serge providing excellent music.   The enthusiasm of these couples in heart warming and a pleasure to see.  
The events in the Plaza Ballroom commenced at 11.30 and in many ways it was truly out “Fourth Dimension” or certainly “Our Tomorrow” as the main events were Under12 and Under 21 Ballroom and Under 16 Latin.programme. Each heat of each event was filled with super quality dancing and one had to admire the talent and ability of these future stars. What great dancers they will become if they continue seeking for knowledge and for the development of their style, performance their musicality and characterisation. 
The ballroom was completely full and the support and applause being given was real “Assen” style.

The Amateur Latin commenced at 15.30 with 8 fabulous heats with every one of the couples finalists in many events around the world. Every couple deserved to be there and have us true Latin dancing. The judges had an absolute nightmare making their recalls and it was heartbreaking not to recall coupes of true quality. The quarter, Semi and Final were very special indeed and the 2 new finalists were thrilled to make that final.
During the afternoon we had also some excellent Pro-Am Latin comps and a super WDC World Super Series Professional Ballroom competition.
 The Amateur and Professional finals were danced combined with first one Amateur dance then one Professional dance which gave the competitors a breather after the gruelling previous rounds and added to the spirit of the night. What fantastic applause the audience gave with fever pitch excitement.  Also in true Assen tradition the entire audience stood to applaud and give the couples added incentive during their final dance.  It is a fitting way to pay tribute to the magnificent performances they have provided.
It is impossible to end without paying tribute to Fred Bijster and his wonderful wife Elsbeth ad son Mas. .Thanks also to out Music Maestro Gerrit who had provided the most inspiring music throughout the camp and the Comp..The great announcers who keep us informed and the day running smoothly then the brilliant hard working Assen team of volunteers who start early each day and work hard after each night cleaning up and preparing for the next day. Each one of these persons deserves our thanks and our gratitude. They are an integral part of Assen and the fun.  Thanks are due also to Nicky, Mark, Hannes and Marcel our Scrutineers who had so efficiently handled many tens of thousands of marks.
Now we all look forward to meeting again in Paris in less than 3 weeks to once again unite in friendship and love of dance.   

To conclude – to everyone who was at Assen we thank you and appreciate your attendance and wish you safe travel home whether near or far.     Ol friendships have been cemented and so many new ones made. The beauty of dance and Assen.