Rockin’ to success

Bush’s junior rock ‘n roll dancers return from nationals with medals

Casey and Zoe Judd won a gold medal and the New Zealand Junior Rock ’n Roll national junior (five to 10 year olds) title at Auckland over Easter.

Of 18 dancers from the Bush Rock ’n Roll Club, most came away with medals or cups for best dressed or dancing.

Club coaches Terry and John Judd said it was a huge win against so many dancers from clubs from Whangerei to Invercargill. They have been in the local club for 30 years, and have won many national titles over the years.

“Bush had the most entries out of any club in New Zealand and was the loudest and most supportive. They had a good result considering they were up against clubs from Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin and Invercargill. From a little town that’s a really good achievement,” said Terry. “The dancers have to go through assessments with outside judges to be allowed to compete at the nationals. For Bush that’s a big achievement and involved lots of training.

“They all stepped up. I’m so proud of all of them. They went up another level on the nationals floor with dancers with under six months experience such as Nate, Ruben and Connor, they amazed us. They all did exceptionally well. I’m a tough coach but it gets results. I expect them to train hard.”

“Rock ’n Roll clubs provide a safe environment for children, everyone looks after the children,” said John. “Everyone has fun whether it be local club, venues or nationals. There is a real camaraderie and members learn how to win and lose and how to support people.” Results:

Novice Section — Dancers who have never competed at Nationals: Frankie Tinifu and Nevaeh Batchelor fifth place dancing; Ben and Lily Croasdale fourth place dancing.

‘I’m so proud of all of them. floor.’ They went up another level on the nationals

— TERRY JUDD, Bush Rock ’n Roll Club coach.

Junior Section — five to 10 years: Casey and Zoe Judd — National Champions dancing and third in Best Dressed. Julian Elms and Sophee Priest third in dancing and first in Best Dressed, Lochie Treder and Kylie Griggs fourth in dancing.

Same Sex Junior Section Ages five to 14 years: Ana Hartley-Brown and Ella Wolland fourth in dancing and second in Best Dressed.

Junior Trios Section: Casey and Zoe Judd and Sophee Priest second in Best Dressed.

Bush Rock ’n Roll Club won the trophy for Most Supportive Club.

PHOTO: STEVE CARLE´ FROM top left: Ella Wolland, Ana HartleyBrown, Connor Woods, Cassidy Griggs, Grace Croadsdale, McKenzie Holdem (former title holder), Ruben Woods and Emily Griggs. Front from left: Julian Elms (holding Sophie Priest), gold medal winners Zoe and Casey...

FINAL rehearsal in Pahiatua before going to the nationals.