As part of the prestigious international sports dance festival “Baltic Grand Prix”, on the second day of the “Baltic Trophy” competition, strong pairs of junior groups competed in ST dances, young peopel and adults showed their mastery in Latin American (LA) dances in the World Sports Dance Federation (WDSF) rating tournament, but along with for them, the most awaited event of this festival is the European ST dance championship for young people, where 47 couples from 27 countries fought for entering the finals of the continental championship and getting the prized places.
The road to the top was not easy for Richards Kriviņas, who won last year’s world and European youth championships in ST dances, with his new partner Aleksandras Šamova, as in August they ranked 4th in the “German open” competition in Stuttgart with a strong team, but a month ago in the “Salaspils open” they took second place.Yesterday they showed a very good performance and deservedly placed in the top three, winning the second place and providing Latvia with silver. It is indeed our country’s first medal this year in the youth group.
Last year’s bronze medalists and this year’s world vice-champions Adria Hernandez and emilija ulcinaite from Spain became the champions.
In the adult WDSF International open LA dances, two Latvian couples made it to the final six in the competition of 22 couples. National runners-up Karls Anišchenko/Daijana Nikona earned the award by winning third place, while Arca gurpinars/Dārta Ķemlere took sixth place.
In the WDSF Open LA dances for young people, where 28 couples competed, two of our couples also danced in the final, providing latvia with a double victory. Having won all five dances, Latvia’s vice-champions Ričards Andrejs Bolšteins and Madara Klišāne won a convincing first place, while the fourth pair of the national championship, Kristiāns Kalvāns/Dana Łebedeva, won second place.
Two awards for Latvia also for juniors in WDSF ST dances, as the Latvian championship finalists Romans Bogdanovs/Patricia Vindele and Aleksejs Shcherbakovs/Vladislava Grigaļčukas won the second and third place behind the Ukrainians. Rudolfs dreiblathens/Danija Kalita, who took 6th place, also reached the finals in the 29 pairs competition.
An emotional moment was the farewell dance performed by Marta and Tina Smolko, who were runners-up for many years, but this year won the European Championship in the professional division created by the WDSF.
On Sunday, the “Baltic Grand Prix” will end with world ranking tournaments in ST dances for adults and youth, and also in LA dances for juniors.
What are the key factors contributing to the success of Latvian dancers in international competitions like the Baltic Grand Prix?
Interview with dance Expert on the Baltic Grand Prix: Celebrating Achievements and Future Trends in Competitive Dance
Editor (Time.news): Thank you for joining us today.We’re excited to discuss the recent Baltic Grand Prix, notably the achievements of Latvian dancers in various categories. Can you give us an overview of the event and its significance in the world of sports dance?
expert: The Baltic Grand Prix is indeed a prestigious event in the sports dance calendar. It draws talented dancers from around the globe, showcasing not just skill, but the cultural exchange that comes with international competition. This year, during the Baltic Trophy competition, we saw standout performances in both Standard (ST) and Latin American (LA) dances, with 47 couples from 27 countries vying for positions in the European ST dance championship.
Editor: Notably, Richards Kriviņas and Aleksandras Šamova brought home a silver medal for Latvia in the youth category. How significant is this achievement considering their previous accolades?
Expert: Winning a silver medal is a tremendous achievement, especially in the context of their recent competitions. After receiving fourth place at the German Open and second at the Salaspils Open, securing a spot in the top three at the Baltic Grand Prix cements their status as a formidable duo on the European stage. As last yearS world and European champions, this second-place finish continues to build their reputation and momentum.
Editor: The competition featured strong contingents, including last year’s bronze medalists who reclaimed top honors this year. What implications does this have for future competitions?
Expert: Every year, the competition becomes progressively fiercer, and this year’s champions, Adria Hernandez and Emilija Ulcinaite from Spain, are a testament to that. Their success inspires not just their partners but also upcoming couples in the sport. It raises the bar and makes preparation and adaptability crucial for other dancers.Emerging couples can take valuable lessons from observing the top performers and refine their techniques accordingly.
Editor: Shifting to adult competitions, we saw two Latvian couples making it to the final six in LA dances. How does this success reflect on the broader landscape of dance in Latvia?
Expert: The portrayal of latvian couples,with Karls Anišchenko and Daijana nikona winning third place,along with Arca Gurpinars and Dārta Ķemlere finishing sixth,demonstrates strong grassroots support for dance in Latvia. It signifies a growing commitment to training and development within the country’s dance community, wich is essential for nurturing future stars.
editor: in addition to the youth and adult categories, juniors also showcased their skills in the ST dances.What trends are you observing in junior competitions?
Expert: junior competitions are incredibly vibrant, showcasing dynamic performances that attune well to the evolving styles and rhythms of dance.The success of pairs like Romans Bogdanovs/Patricia Vindele and Aleksejs shcherbakovs/Vladislava Grigaļčukas reflects a solid training framework for young dancers in Latvia. Their triumphs establish a benchmark for future generations and highlight an increased interest in competitive dance among youth.
editor: Lastly, let’s discuss the emotional farewell of Marta and tina Smolko, who have long been prominent figures in the dance community.What impact do such moments have on the sport?
Expert: Farewell dances are both poignant and inspiring. They offer a moment of reflection for the dancers,fans,and the community. For Marta and Tina Smolko, winning the European Championship in the professional division not only marks the culmination of their careers but also sets a precedent for commitment and excellence in the sport. Such moments create a legacy and motivate upcoming dancers to strive for greatness in their own journeys.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights today. The Baltic Grand Prix certainly highlights not just individual successes but also the spirit of sports dance at large.
Expert: Thank you for having me! The excitement around these competitions will undoubtedly inspire more individuals to participate in dance, fostering a new generation of champions.