Imperial Professional Latin Championships

As ever the Imperial Championships were a great success due to the fabulous organisational skill of Michael Stylianos and Lorna Lee. Their hospitality is renowned world wide as is the terrific atmosphere which is evident at each of their promotions. This of course, was no exception. A tribute to the event was the number of 'A' list professionals who gave up their free time, in what is a very busy period, to attend.

The results of the Professional Latin event was as follows:

Winners were Japan 's Yoshi and Hidemi Yamamoto. This couple are always such great performers and Hidemi's unrivalled flexibility always draws the attention of the audience. However, on this showing I was a little concerned about the relevance of Hidemi's feet patterns with the music I was listening to. Nothing seemed to be very clear and at some times they were totally out of the music. This really needs tidying up for the future.

Winners Yoshi & Hidemi Yamamoto with ISTD Chairman Robert Grover

The runners up were from the USA, Robertas Maleckis and Inga Sirkaite. I was a little surprised at this couple's inclusion in the final and with such a high placing. In my opinion they lack the class and subtlety that I would expect from this level of competition. They certainly attack all that they do and are totally uninhibited by all those around them. Try to look at how better transfers of weight would add more musicality to the dance.

In third place came Frank Luan Jiang and Sandy Zhang Ru from China. This is the first time I recall seeing Sandy with the short hair cut. I must say that I loved it. They are such fiery personalities on the floor who always demand attention from all in attendance. I still feel that there are many areas of technique that could be improved upon to improve the level of quality. It's not all about quantity.

In fourth place were Toshihiko Nakamura and Tomoko Aoyagi from Japan. I always enjoy watching this couple. Technically sound and beginning to look more able to use the music as they want it. Not one of their most convincing performances but good enough to finish higher for my taste.

In fifth place were Atsuki Ohmura and Megumi Wada also from Japan. Megumi wore the most flattering dress I have ever seen her in. It added a look of greater femininity and softness. Dance wise timing was a little suspect in places as was stamina, particularly in Jive in each round. I would like to see more depth of action in Rumba.

Finalists in the Imperial Professional Latin Championship

In the sixth position came Jack Zhang Shu Ren and Michelle Daili from China. A couple with a beautiful floor presentation. Jack looks ultra masculine and Michelle is a great foil for him. It would be better if they would focus together a little more rather than out to the audience. I still also feel that they could show more middle body flexibility and rhythm.

Completing this great final were Japan's Koji Nishijima and Asumi Mikataka. Very surprised to see them finish at the bottom of the pile this time out. I see them as being one of the brightest talents to come out of Japan in a long time. They look more polished than in the past which is a definite plus for me. Maybe better use of the back would find favour with the judges next time.

Graham Oswick