Chicago_DanceSport_Challenge_2021 - 4q21

FEATURE STORY

Chicago DanceSport Challenge and Senior Nationals 2021 November 4-7, 2021

BY ROSE-ANN LYNCH

Taking a group selfie at the 2021 Chicago DanceSport Challenge.

Photo courtesy of Alex Gilman

“They did a really good job!”
“They ran an NQE and a Nationals and supported a camp with an air of efficiency.”
“They extended an overwhelmingly enthusiastic warm welcome to all who came to participate.”
“It was an event for Seniors, by Seniors!”
“We all wanted them to succeed!”
“Chicago had a lot of heart!”

These are reactions received when Senior DanceSport Athletes were asked to describe the 2021 Chicago DanceSport Challenge and Senior Nationals, November 4-7. But what do these statements mean?

Senior III Latin Champions Andrew Prouty & Ilona Prouty dancing their Rhumba.

Photo courtesy of Alex Gilman

“They did a really good job.” — “They” were the Chicago Chapter of USA Dance, under the leadership of Kelly Batchelor and Alan Burns. This chapter traditionally holds a large National Qualifying Event (NQE) in preparation for the spring USA Dance Nationals. In the past, Kelly and Alan were Chicago DanceSport Challenge (CDC) staples, always on the scene and visible. This year, however, was different. First, Kelly, the Chicago Chapter President, agreed to take the lead in organizing the event. Then, it was determined that the Chicago DanceSport Challenge would include the largest part of the apportioned 2021 Nationals – Senior Nationals. The result: the Chicago Chapter hosted two events on one weekend, and “did a really good job.”

“They ran an NQE and a Nationals and supported a camp with an air of efficiency.” — The event was superb from registration through awards and was organized with the serious competitor in mind. The Hyatt Regency O’Hare, a proven venue convenient to the airport, was fully capable of supporting a large dance crowd. Its restaurant had good buffet meals and could accommodate many people at one time. For those who wished to venture out between rounds, there were several other nearby options. A variety of vendors set up outside the ballroom for any services, needs, and shopping desires. The ballroom, itself, was large and well lit, and the floor was not restricted by bunting and encroaching tables. Dancers were able to take advantage of the many large, convenient practice floors while monitoring the competition’s progression on provided screens.

Pavel Kravchenko & Luisa Bykova, Senior II Standard Champions, dancing their Tango

Photo courtesy of Alex Gilman

“They extended an overwhelmingly enthusiastic warm welcome to all who came to participate.” — As the dancers arrived, the hands-on Chicago Team embraced the excitement of their attendees. Registration was set up on time and someone was always available to answer questions or extend needed encouragement. The competition floor was constructed well before the event, and was made available to the dancers when the competition was not being conducted. The Team completely understood the need to be responsive and embraced the process. They were outgoing and engaging with all participants, dancers, and spectators. The atmosphere was welcoming and the smiles, well wishes, and hugs were plentiful.

“It was an event for Seniors, by Seniors!” — As championship-level senior dancers who have competed worldwide, Kelly and Alan, understood the competitors’ needs, especially the seniors. The music was beautiful, the judging panel was diverse, professional photographers and videographers were available, and information was timely and complete. The Team sent out notifications, prior to the competition, and made announcements, during the event, regarding the Chicago-area COVID restrictions to help safeguard all in attendance. They executed the competition on time, without creating unnecessary tension in the on-deck area, and prevented waiting around by presenting awards immediately after events concluded.

Adult Latin Champions - Kairat Algadaev & Julia Seleznyov

Photo courtesy of Alex Gilman

“We all wanted them to succeed!” — The Senior dancers were aware of challenges faced by the Chicago Team, and all wanted them to be successful. As amateur organizers for a National competition, they dealt with many new rules, regulations, restrictions, and expenses. Dancers sadly noted Alan and Kelly’s sacrifice…they chose not to compete to better serve their fellow competitors. Although they were ever present in the ballroom, they were greatly missed on the dance floor.

“Chicago had a lot of heart!” — By the end of the action-packed competition, a total of 25 National Championship titles were presented (see sidebar) to couples ranging from Senior I to Senior V in Standard, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm, 10-Dance, 9-Dance, and Cabaret. Although these titles will be short lived, with the 2022 Nationals quickly approaching, April 1-4, 2022, they will always be meaningful. For the Seniors, the largest collective age category within USA Dance, Chicago was the first Nationals after the pandemic and the last chance to compete in 2021. It was an opportunity to see friends and win National titles. It gave the dancers a chance to do what they love. “Chicago had a lot of heart.”