Day One Results: Back in San Juan!

Opening Day: Fred Astaire (Dance Studios) World Championships, San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

The first day of competitions for students (and professionals) from Fred Astaire Dance Studios across the U.S. was both exhilarating and emotional. The four hour Showcase Extravaganza at the Caribe Hilton which included Bronze, Silver and Gold Solo, Novelty and Bronze, Silver, Gold Showcase performances was the kick-off to the annual four day event that's been held in San Juan since 2009. Veterans of this premiere competition event no doubt have fond recollections of past years, but will also sadly note that this is the final event in Puerto Rico.

 This is Jamie Rivera's (FADS Houston) first national competition. He and his pro-partner, Tarin Smith, feel great competing tonight.

Pierrette Quintiliani and her pro-partner, Heiko Leyhausen, from FADS Old Saybrook, CT, enjoy the atmosphere and all the other accomplished dancers on the floor.

Jim Oberman from FADS Chicago South Mokena savors his top Bronze Showcase Male award.

Margaret Law from FADS Belmont took top Bronze Showcase Female.

Aidan Boutin from FADS Middletown took top Junior Showcase.

Ingrid Totten from FADS Brookfield (CT) took top Silver Showcase Female.

Bob Koehler from FADS Youngstown receives an award for top Novelty Male.

Lois Davis from FADS Willoughby takes top Novelty Female.

Other winners in the Solo Division tonight:

Top Bronze Solo Male: Larry Markowitz (Tarrytown, NY)
Top Bronze Solo Female: Christine Coulter (Pewaukee, WI)
Top Silver Solo Female: Pam Olsen (Pewaukee, WI)
Top Gold Solo Male: Dennis Baer (Milwaukee North)