Thursday 6th December.
The first day has really set the standard and whet the appetite for the days ahead.
From early morning one could sense the excitement everywhere in Newport Bay Hotel and no one could have been disappointed. We had a kaleidoscope of colour, beautiful costuming and grooming and dancing of the very highest quality.
The dance competitors have always been the top priority from the outset of the WDC AL and it has always been the mission to provide dancers with respect, freedom, a choice, a future. The pleasure shown by each competitor in being able to be present and part of this great event was so very clear and they each deserve congratulations for the enthusiasm they displayed and the pleasure they gave to so many.
53 countries have competitors this year and many events have record entries. There was so much of which we can be so proud and so very grateful
In both Ballrooms 1 and 2 the first events were scheduled for 9.00 and the Programme showed we would crown 9 World Champions, including the first ever WDC AL World Juvenile Team Champions. There would also be 9 Fred Astaire events for Amateurs, Pro-Am and Student Teacher. A full schedule indeed
In a remarkable day one must make special mention of The World Championships for the Under 12 Ballroom, who from the first round with record breaking numbers, set a fantastic standard, A sizzling and exciting Under 16 Latin and a breathtaking Under 21 Ballroom. These young stars of dance are our future and what a future it is going to be with this talent in depth and real quality.
Top marks must go to the organising team, the announcers, the scrutineers, the inspiring DJs and the very hard working “team” who do so many duties with a smile.
