ISTD Brackell 2013 medallist competition

Pete Fry reports from Bracknell

On Sunday 4^th August 2013, my dance partner Emma and I arrived at Bracknell Leisure Centre to compete in our third ISTD competition. Although Emma had managed to work her way to a few semi-finals before, I’d never been past a first round; so this time we were determined to do better! In preparation we’d had several private lessons with Vicki and Fredric, our wonderful teachers, a Tango workshop, and lots of practice. During the week leading up to the competition, all we seemed to do was dance!

We were assigned our numbers soon after we arrived, lucky number 39! At this competition there were five Dancerite boys in the under 35 social dance section, so I was to partner Tory, my friend and veteran competitor, in the solos.

The Ballroom section began the day, and I danced my Waltz as best I could, but nerves got the better of me a little and I knew I’d made a few mistakes. I was so very proud of Emma making the semi-finals for her event, but sadly wasn’t called back to the final for my own. A little disappointed, and with some reassuring smiles from family and friends who’d come to see us compete; we prepared ourselves for the couple’s ballroom, the Tango!

Our tango was going swimmingly until WHACK! In the middle of our routine, another couple struck me by accident right in the middle of my back with a very audible crack. Emma and I were both startled, but managed to get back on track. Alas, we weren’t called back to the semi-finals, but with the Ballroom section finished, we quickly dashed to get changed, as there were only minutes until the Latin section began!

Tory and I took to the floor for the men’s solos, and we began our Cha-Cha; luckily we’d managed a few minutes of practice to agree on a quick routine, and I threw myself into it as much as I could. We waited once more for the call backs, Emma got through to her semi-final, and then to a final! I was so pleased for her! When it came time for the results of the men’s event I was getting ready to move back to my seat when I heard my number called; I was flabbergasted! As I was in a state of shock Tory dragged me to the dance floor and took my position ready to dance in my very first final. I danced as hard as I could but, it seemed to be over in a flash! I returned to my seat to see my parents and Emma’s mum beaming at me and cheering. Emma and I hugged and celebrated qualifying for our first finals, the culmination of months of hard work!

Before we knew it, it was time for our Latin couples’ event, the Jive. We’d done a lot of practice and still on a high from making the finals in our solo events we took to the floor to give it our all. Alas, we didn’t make it to the semi-finals, but that couldn’t diminish our pride at our previous success.

The award ceremony followed, and we celebrated the successes of our fellow Dancerite students many of whom seemed to be walking around with little trophies (some not so little!) Emma received 6^th place for her Cha-Cha! When the results of the men’s event were announced I was stunned to be awarded 5^th place! I was so shocked I can’t quite remember stumbling towards the floor to collect my trophy, but I was so very excited! After a few photos of us smiling and holding our winnings, it was all over. We changed out of our dance clothes and began the journey home, utterly exhausted, but still so excited to be taking home an award.

I placed my trophy in my room, and every so often catch a glimpse of it, still not quite believing that I’ve managed to earn my very first sporting trophy at tender age of 31! And it’s all down to the wonderful teaching skills, experience, support and encouragement from Fredric and Vicki at Dancerite… Roll on November 2^nd and our next competition in Blackpool!

Results