By Tara McCormack
In an awe-inspiring display of determination, Kim Fox, 42, and her daughter Priya, 9, from Glencar, Letterkenny, brought home a prestigious award from the O18 Open PNC UDO World Dance Championships held in Blackpool last weekend.
The dynamic duo clinched an impressive 4th place after competing against over a hundred couples in a category brimming with global talent.
Speaking to the Donegal News, Kim revealed that their decision to participate was made just a week before the event.
“When we got there, the girl came over and she was taking our numbers, and I looked at the category. There were over a hundred couples, and it took so long to get through,” Kim recounted.
Despite the fierce competition, the pair pushed through five heats and battles, advancing to the quarterfinals, semi-finals, and finally, the finals.
“I just remember turning around and saying I don’t know how I’m going to make it. I’m sorry I’m exhausted,” she laughed.
Yet, their perseverance paid off when they were called to the final round.
“It was literally unbelievable. There were seven in the final, and they were amazing,” she added.
Kim and Priya’s accomplishment is even more impressive considering the international nature of the competition.
They were the only representation from Ireland and competed against dancers from 30-plus countries, including the Philippines, South Africa, and Germany.
Despite the tough competition, they emerged as one of the top couples, making their achievement all the more special.
Priya also showcased her individual talents, securing a spot in the top 16 in the world for solos.
Reflecting on their incredible journey, Kim asked her daughter about her favourite moments.
Priya’s response was heart-warming, she said: “Us dancing.”
Kim added: “It was very special coming home and putting our world trophies on the mantelpiece, and we were like, oh my God, we actually did that.”
The duo’s success was celebrated by their family and supporters, who accompanied them to Blackpool.
“We had really good support there from other dancers, and my mummy and daddy came over with us as well. It was really nice to see my daddy, just to see his face, and he was screaming for us, and he was just delighted,” Kim recalled.
Beyond her achievements on the dance floor, Kim leads a demanding life. She is a Clinical Nurse Specialist for the HSE for Intellectual Disability Services and is currently pursuing her doctorate.
Despite her busy schedule, Kim finds time to coach at Pinehill Studios once a week, driven by her passion for dance and a desire to inspire the next generation.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)