AN ASHTON-BASED dance group is officially among the best on the planet after finishing third at a prestigious world championship.
For a second consecutive year, Blaze Street Dance Academy’s Team Limitless competed at the Global Dance Organisation’s event in Crawley, West Sussex.
A key date on the dance calendar, the competition on Saturday, December 9, and Sunday, December 10 attracted thousands of dancers in a variety of categories, including Street Teams, Street Solos and Street Duos, along with one-on-one battles in hip-hop, litefeet and house.
And Team Limitless – which is made up of dancers aged between eight and 35-years-old – followed up last year’s podium place with another.
Managing director Sammy-Jo Boulton was proud of her athletes’ performance and thanked everyone for their efforts in making the event possible – both financially and logistically.
Speaking to The Correspondent, Sammy-Jo said: “We had the most incredible weekend at GDO World Championships with Team Limitless and our Blaze family.
“The weekend consisted of competing in teams, solos, trios and quads. We also took part in workshops run by amazing choreographers and judges from around the world.
“We couldn’t have asked to spend the weekend with better people. Honestly, it was amazing, What a vibe. The support everyone has given us this weekend is on another level. We can’t thank you all enough.
“What a mega experience and huge achievement for this team. Not only qualifying for worlds but then placing in the top three for the second consecutive year.
“In six months, the team has expanded with new members, and we have created a whole new set with a lot of risk-taking, which definitely paid off.
“I can’t thank everyone enough who made the trip possible, we couldn’t have done it without the support of donations and sponsors. You all made the dream come true, and for that, we are forever grateful.
“We are so excited to see what 2024 brings.”
In related news, the academy held its annual presentation evening earlier this month. As well as handing out trophies and certificates to star students and groups, the event also gave parents and coaches a chance to reflect on what has been a hugely memorable year across all age groups.
Reflecting on the occasion, Sammy-Jo added: “It was an amazing night and our biggest one to date. The venue was packed out, and the atmosphere incredible and so overwhelming.
“It was a great way to celebrate 12 years of success with our students and Blaze family.
“We feel so lucky, grateful and bursting with pride to have achieved so much in the 12 years of being open. 2023 has been the busiest and the best year we have had to date.”