Valentin Chmerkovskiy Ends His Competitive Career

Valentin Chmerkovskiy has decided to end his competitive career. In a message to his supporters he expressed that the changes in the competitive world and regulations that hindered him from competing, were a big factor in his decision. These details came after speculation that his partner, Dariya, had ended their partnership. In any case, we wish him the best. And who knows, he may just pull a Stefano.

To read Val's full message, visit http://www.dancesportinfo.net/Articles/7511.aspx

GOC - Amateur Latin Grand Slam Results

With Zoran and Tatsiana absent at the German Open Championship this week, Andrei Zaitsev and partner Anna Kuzminskaya proved victorious. They beat out recent WDSF grand slam winners, Italians Aniello Langella and Krystina Moshenska, who placed second. Coming in third were Martino Zanibellato and Michelle Abildstrup from Denmark.

Final:
1. Andrey Zaytsev/Anna Kuzminskay, Russia
2. Aniello Langella/Khrystina Moshenska, Italy
3. Martino Zanibellato / Michelle Abildstrup, Denmark
4. Timur Imametdinov/Ekaterina Nikolaeva, Russia
5. Vladimir Karpov/Mariya Tzaptashvilli, Russia
6. Gabriele Pasquale Goffredo/Anna Matus, Moldova

Unwatched Treasure

Found this video tonight. Can't believe it only has 946 views. It features Yuli and Riccardo with an appearance by Arunas Bizokas. Check out the drop at the end!

Jurij and Jogoda Turn Professional

Jurij Batagelj and Jagoda Strukelj, the winners of the 2011 UK Open and Blackpool Dance Festival in the Amateur Latin category have decided to turn professional. Winning Blackpool this year was a great accomplishment for the couple and they have decided to move on to the professional realm. The Slovenian couple will be making their first professional appearance at the 2012 UK Championship.

I cannot help but wonder if this has anything to do with their alignment with the WDC versus the IDSF. But best of luck to the both of them!



Image courtesy of Danceportinfo.net