It was an action packed weekend in Louisville, Kentucky, the host of the 2007 Championships. All ages from the smallest to the maturist were there to compete in hopes of representing the USA in each of their categories, somewhere else in the world. Well, after many rounds of 2 styles of dance, here is what the distinguished panel of former champions liked. But as we go a few comments on each couple.

6th Place: Jason & Linda Turner. We have been watching this couple for several years as they are Americans. In the Latin I feel they should use their upper backs more. Tend to look a little stiff. In the Ballroom, Jason tends to drop his center looking heavy. Need to become more dynamic in both styles.

5th Place: Max Rublyuk & Sasha Alekseyeva. In the Latin they were fast and very supple. I like that always looking easy and unforced. In the Ballroom they need to use their supporting leg more, they are not moving enough for such a tall couple. They tend to step too quickly.

4th Place: Pavel Balykin & Maria Gershenovich. In the Latin Maria sometimes looks slow next to Paul. In the Standard Maria needs more space in the top line. They had great swing in the Viennese Waltz.

3rd Place: Simeon Stoynov & Kora A. Uczekaj. In the Latin I felt they lacked body tick. Sometimes all about speed and lines. In the Ballroom Kora is too vertical, needs to work on upper stretch. But show character of the dances (Ballroom) well.

2nd Place: Russ & Katusha Wilder. In the Latin always looking fast and powerful. Surprising for such a tall couple. Keep doing what you are doing. In the Ballroom I feel IKatusha has too much tension in her neck and shoulders and needs to use her lower back more for strength. Great use of the floor.

1st Place: Pasha Pashkov & Inna Brayer. In the Latin they were my winners from round one, never to weaken. Nice contrast of strength, speed and softness giving much depth to their performance. In the Standard I feel Pasha gets a little stiff in his upper back at times. Possibly trying to compensate for his slim, slight body build, not wanting to look small. However, they are our Champions and representatives and I personally wish you great luck and safe travels to the World Am 10-Dance.

Just one last note from a judge and spectator. Whether you win or lose, you should enjoy every moment of the dance, your partner, the music and life. And we, the audience, want to feel that from you. I feel many of our dancers are looking a little too manufactured and lacking the enjoyment from the heart factor.

So keep working hard and become the music. You’ll never be beat!