Harrogate Grammar School students Lily Cowen and Willa Crowton have achieved success at the Open Platform Irish Dance Federation World Championships 2022 in London.
The year 7 students have been Irish dancing for less than two years. Both began when their dance teacher, who was also their teaching assistant at Harrogate’s Western Primary School, introduced them to the sport.
The girls tried an introductory session at school and immediately enjoyed it.
In a short space of time they started to compete.
Now Lily has been crowned world champion for one of her routines, primary – treble reel.
She said:
“I really did not expect that result, I was so shocked and happy.
“It means a lot to me, being crowned world champion will always be an amazing memory that stays with me.”
Willa achieved a 5th place, novice, solo championships – reel and light jig and 6th place, novice – treble reel.
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Their dance teacher, Una O’Connor, from St. Aelred’s Irish Dance School, in Harrogate said;
“It has been an honour to guide them on their journey, playing to individual strengths and leading them to such a high level of success at such a young age.”
Headteacher at Harrogate Grammar School, Neil Renton, said
“We are delighted for Lily and Willa, these are truly remarkable achievements. They have trained hard and it’s fantastic to see their talent recognised.”