In what could be said to be a clean sweep triumph for Lancaster University Ballroom Dancing Society, yesterday afternoon saw Lancaster dominate in most categories of beginner’s and advanced Latin and Ballroom, ending with a 4-0 victory.
The event was hosted by Lancaster’s very own VP Media and Communications, Matthew Power and judged by Duncan Trevor, a well known and respected judge on the Latin and Ballroom circuit. Lancaster had a substantial advantage over York, who diminished their chances of success in the beginner’s categories, only bringing advanced latin and ballroom teams, and so lost out on those crucial beginner’s points.
Looking the utmost professional and glamorous in their sparkling attire, Lancaster took to the dancefloor with confidence and skill, gaining first place for the advanced waltz, quickstep, open mayfair quickstep and advanced Viennesse waltz. Contemporary song choices kept the supportive and somewhat rowdy crowd entertained, including the likes of Amy Winehouse’s Valerie and One Direction’s What Makes You Beautiful, with energy remaining high throughout the duration of the afternoon.
After a few technical difficulties and last minute music changes, a smooth transition from Ballroom to Latin brought girating hips and skimpier costumes, with Lancaster winning first place in the open Tango and Paso Doble. However, York were able to bring their “A-game” in this category, taking home first place for the open rumba, advanced chacha and the advanced Jive.
Showing good sportsmanship and staying true to the core values of Roses weekend, the end of the competition saw the two competing sides come together for the ‘fun dances’ where York and Lancaster took part in ‘musical bumps’, rock n’ roll and the intervarsity chacha.
Lancaster put on an excellent, enjoyable show, displaying impecable skill and style, with LUBDS President, Andrew Pickup concluding, “I’m really proud of Lancaster and all we’ve achieved today. I think we brought a strong team and it was a lot of fun”.
