IT is a win for the Just Dance Studio as Winnie Wheeler takes home a first placement in the Starters Platinum at the recent dance competition in the East Coast Swing category. The competition was held in Amanzimtoti where Wheeler impressed judges with her partner, Kevin Ellis.
Being Winnie’s first-ever competition, the dance partners are ecstatic about this achievement. Winnie, who is a mother to three daughters and a grandmother to 11 grandchildren, said this is the first time she’s ever won something for herself.
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“As you get married and have kids, other things have to take priority, and you don’t have time to do everything you like. Since I’ve had the time, I’ve taken up an interest in dancing. I saw Kevin dance, and I approached him. With his help, I was able to learn the steps, and he encouraged me to participate in the competition.”
Winnie said she was nervous before the competition, but she did not let that steal her stage presence. “I enjoyed myself on stage with Kevin’s lead – he made it very comfortable and easy for me to follow,” she said.
Being 75 years old, Winnie said she’s also happy that she did not let her age get in the way of pursuing dance. “I feel really happy doing this, and it makes my days happier. I think I was one of the oldest of the contestants, so it reminds me that it is never too late,” she said.
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Ellis said he’s happy to be part of Winnie’s win as her teacher and dance partner. “She has always been enthusiastic about dancing, and she was a pleasure to teach. I am happy that she agreed to take part in the competition, and she has achieved much for a first-time competitor,” said Ellis.
Winnie wore a royal-blue bedazzled dress that was designed by her partner, Ellis. Ellis said he made the dress he thought would best suit Winnie and her character. “It was an easy and fun dress to make for Winnie. Our relationship dates back from forty years ago, so I knew her before we became dance partners,” he said.
Ellis was recently appreciated by the dance community as he was rewarded at the Sibiya Casino. He said the award is a reflection of his contribution to the dance community, which he is grateful for.
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