PITTSBURG, Kan. — Almost one year to the day after opening its doors, BTC Athletics and Dance of Pittsburg has a new trophy to proudly put in their lobby. This trophy just happens to read “National Champions.”
After months of preparation and rehearsals, 11 members of the BTC F.O.R.C.E. competition team traveled to St. Louis, Missouri July 6-9 to compete at Fly Dance Competition Nationals. BTC had ten different dances that earned the opportunity to compete at nationals including solos, duos, a trio, and several group numbers.
“I have been blown away at how much progress our dancers have made in the past year. Having the opportunity to see them on a national stage doing their very best was such an amazing feeling,” said Beth Bradshaw, studio owner and teacher.
After the regular competition was completed, two BTC dances were called back to the Turbulence Showdown and a chance to win the national title. After performing their dances one more time for the judges, the routine to “Fabulous” was awarded runner up in the junior division and the routine to “Do It Like This” was announced as national champions in the senior division.
“To win nationals meant so much to me. I am so proud of myself and everyone else,” said Frontenac High School Senior Riahna Warren. “We’ve worked so hard for this since the beginning of the year. We’ve been to four other competitions, and this is what we’ve been working towards the whole time. To win first with some of my best friends, including one of my sisters, was absolutely amazing!”
“Fabulous” routine dancers include Faith Docherty, Khloe Harryman, Mara Rhodes, Savanna Rhodes, and Violet Snider.
“Do It Like This” routine dancers include Marlee Bradshaw, Sydney Ewing, Lydia Grotheer, Avinelle Mikrut, Rain Warren, and Riahna Warren. Instructors include Beth Bradshaw, Summer Warren, and Elyse Musil.
BTC Athletics and Dance is gearing up for their second season and invites the community to join them. They will have an open house and free night on dance on Monday, Aug. 14 and begin classes Monday, Aug. 21.
BTC is a studio that is family-focused and encourages balanced and well-rounded dancers. Their mission is to inspire young people to know that through dedication, hard work, and heart, they can achieve their dreams.
For more information, visit their website at www.btcathletics.com or find them on Facebook.
