Local line dancer crowned world dance champ in UK

HIGHWAY line dance sensation Kevin Ellis graced international stages at the 2023 World Dance Championship that was held in Blackpool in the United Kingdom. Coming in first with his dance partner Lesley Klewinghaus, the pair are now undefeated World Champions and European 2023 Champions in the partners category.

Ellis also danced solos and won his section and was graded Gold Honours and Gold Graduates. “This proves to me that age is not a factor – at the age of 60, I am doing what I love, and I don’t even feel a day over 40 years,” he said.

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This being one of Eliis’ many wins, the dance champ said he was happy to have his parents watch him live when he performed. “It was one of my dreams to have my parents watch me – my mom is 93 years and my dad is 97 – they streamed the show from the retirement home,” he said.

Kevin said this was a big deal for him and his partner who is located in Germany. “We practised twice before the competition – she is good at what she does, and our win was well-deserved,” he said.

For Ellis, the community and his local dance studio, Just Dance, is at the heart of his efforts. “It is heart warming to represent my local dance studio. I also appreciate the support. I do this out of love with no expectation of profits,” he said.

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Ellis is also preparing for his next competition that will be in Sun City in November. The line dancer said he is hoping to make it to Texas, USA, for the American World Champs if he wins in Sun City.

Winning six solo titles in 2023 is also Just Dance Studio’s Jackie Despy. Despy won gold in the highest division of her age group. She has also won four titles with her partner, Jerome Edwards.

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