This weekend they came from all over the world to take part in the second Celtic Classic Ballroom Dancing Competition to be held in Tralee. The event runs from Thursday 1st March to Sunday 4th inclusive in the Brandon Conference Centre, Tralee. Austria, Hungary, Spain, Portugal, Russia, England, Denmark, USA, Japan, Australia, Sweden, Luxembourg, Norway, Finland, Belgium, N. Ireland, Italy, France, Germany, Ukraine, Poland, Rep. of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Holland were all represented.
It was a great, glitzy, glamorous affair - and a fantastic opportunity for people to indulge in that dynamic world of dance. Although the main point of the Championships is to win prizes, nevertheless the competitors showed in their sheer professionalism in the Brandon Conference Centre what the real meaning of dance is - enjoyment.
The "sold out" signs were on display on several occasions over the 4 days and public reaction has been most favourable, although many were disappointed at not having the opportunity of being able to witness the event.
The event has been organised by Ann Gibson (who originally hails from Dublin, but is now living in Tralee) and Tommy Shaughnessy. Both were winners of the Willwood Juvenile Latin Championship thirty years ago in 1970. Ann told TraleeTown.com that she was delighted that the event had been so well supported last year and was absolutely overwhelmed at how successful this year's event has proved to be.
The competitions are officially recognised by the following:
- All-Ireland Board of Ballroom Dancing (Contact: Sec. 01-286 8101)
- Irish DanceSport Federation
- International DanceSport Federation
- Irish Professional Teachers of Old Time & Sequence Dancing Society
- Irish Old Time & Sequence Dancing Society
- Munster DanceSport Board (Contact: 052-42515 or 015-84316)
