JESS AND GEORGIE GO FROM STRENGTH TO STRENGTH ON THE DANCE FLOOR 

We have published a number of articles in the past, detailing Jess Clapton’s fantastic successes as a high-level ballroom dancer, along with her partner Georgie Swift. Jess, now in Year 9, continues to go from strength to strength, even as she progresses through the age categories and the competition becomes fiercer! 

Lucy, Jess’s mum, gives us an update from the 42nd IDTA Nationwide Medalist of the Year, Classical and Modern Sequence Finals at the Empress Ballroom of the Winter Gardens, Blackpool, which took place last term: 

“This was Jess’s first Nationwide in Blackpool dancing as a junior in her new section.  She danced in the category 13-15 Girl/Girl Classical Sequence – and again the same 13-15 Girl/Girl Modern Sequence sections, with Georgie Swift partnering her for both sections.   

Jess danced the Modern Sequence first in a tough section, making the quarter finals. She just missed out on the semi-finals, placing joint 13th nationwide.  

Day two was her Classical Sequence day and as you can imagine, dancing in a new section you expect to start at the bottom and work your way up. Jess was dancing with some amazing competitors who have been in that section for two to three years – she knew what a challenge she had ahead! Despite this level of competition, Jess went into the competition with positivity and determination, dancing round after round.   

As you can imagine we were over the moon when Jess not only held her own but made the final, alongside two friends from her dance school, Applegarth Academy of Dance.   

While Jess place 6th nationwide in her Classical Sequence.  It was lovely to see her dance school achieve students placing 4th, 5th and 6th nationwide. Such an amazing achievement!” 

Well done to Jess for her achievements and maintaining this incredibly high standard of dance, year on year. We very much look forward to hearing further reports of her success. 

Jess and family would also like to thank the Richmond School Trustees for providing some financial support with the focus on Jess’s fantastic pursuit of excellence. 

@Applegarthacademyofdance