Starstruck at the Embassy Ball

If not to compete, one should go to the Embassy Ball to watch the professionals. Even the amatuers (this is a division when competiting) were amazing. The quality of dancers in every division was astounding. We were very lucky to have the opportunity to watch Zoran and Tatsiana in the IDSF Amatuer Championship competition (Blackpool 2010 Amatuery winners), and Yulia and Riccardo, and Melinda and Andrej in the Professional Latin Championship competition.

We even ran into Melinda and Andrej at the airport checking in. We were such groupies - screaming at them and shouting adorations! We may sound crazy, but, oh my god, these are people you see on your tiny computer and television screens. Plus, they are from Slovenia. So my chances of seeing them again in person are really slim.

But I must say, I was most uncool when I met Max (you might know him as the really hot pro from Dancing With the Stars). Apparently our coach's wife is an acquaintance of his, and she made a quick introduction. Next thing we knew we were taking a picture with him, and he had his hand on my waist! I don't really remember what I said. Something about how amazing he was. The worst part was that I was shaking throughout the entire experience. And just to prove that I am not making things up, please find the picture attached. He's a greek god - that dances!



Excuse the hair and make-up - remnants from my afternoon of competing.

On a more serious note - Riccardo and Yulia are most certainly one of my favourite couples. Amazing rhythm, intensity and a great partnership. Watching them compete live was a privelege. Check out some of their perfomances from the 2009 World Super Stars Dance Festival: