Up and coming ballroom dance stars Kailee Donaldson (13) and Justin Edwards (16) will take to their talents to the international stage when they compete at the World Open Championships in Paris later this year.
The Mandurah Dance World pair have been stacking up success on both state and national levels, and will look to continue their string of outstanding performances when they compete in their first global event.
“It’s our first time competing in an international event, so there’s some nerves,” Justin said.
“But it’s also just really exciting to be going there.”
The duo have been dancing together for just shy of two years, but have both been competing since the age of eight.
Now, they will get their chance to shine in one of the most decorated dancing cities in the world when they fly out to Paris in December.
“There’s so much history for dancing there and that’s really exciting,” Kailee said.
“It’s going to be a really good challenge for us.”
The two will be joined on the trip by Mandurah Dance World coach Glen Brennen, who will referee at the event.
After hitting the dancefloor in Paris the pair will then make their way to Naples, to compete in the Naples national open.
While dancing is the first item on their agenda, the duo is also looking forward to enjoying the travel.
“It’s a lot of work to get over there but we’re also excited to see all the sights,” Justin said.
The duo’s parents are holding fundraising drives to help them achieve their dream.
The biggest of these events will be their upcoming quiz night, which will be held on October 14.
For more information on the night, call Natalie Whitelaw on 0406 173 122.
Justin Rake
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
Sports journalist for the Mandurah Mail, Australian Community Media, Fairfax Media.
