Keeeep dancing! The Guernsey Dancefloor Challenge returns in 2023 with a bang, as local personalities and dancers showcase a variety of dances from around the world at three exciting events on 28th and 29th April.
Organised by Jamie Le Tissier and Bonnie Lehr through their dance school, the Guernsey Dancefloor Challenge has been running for 17 years and raises thousands of pounds for charity each year (which is split between the Guernsey Amateur Dancesport Association and other good causes).
This year, our Insurance Manager Sandra will be taking part in the challenge: and we couldn’t be prouder! We caught up with Sandra this week to find out what it’s been like taking part, her dancing experience, and what she’s most enjoyed about the challenge.
Hi Sandra – and congratulations! How did you get involved with the Guernsey Dancefloor Challenge? Tell us a bit more about your dance partner and the dances you’ll be doing.
A good friend of mine kept telling me that I should put myself forward for the DFC: that it would be a great new challenge for me. My dance partner Wayne Harris has been part of the DFC for 8 years; he is a patient man (he needs to be!) and he has put in a lot of time and effort to teach me, as has his wife Debi (she also dances, and she’s been a tremendous help). The dances I have been practising are the Paso Doble, Quick Step, Rumba, and Bollywood.
Are you a keen dancer or is this something you’ve always wanted to try?
I wouldn’t say I am a keen dancer, but I have always wanted to learn to dance – I am a big Strictly fan!
What has been your favourite thing about the experience so far?
I do not have one specific thing, it’s all been great. Meeting everybody; sharing tips and ideas; and all the support given to everyone – it’s really been amazing. Not to mention the dressing up! The outfits are superb.
…and what has been the biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge has been trying to learn all the routines. For a while, it was like I wasn’t grasping them - but then everything just fell into place.
Has dancing taken over your life now – have you been paso-dobeling through the Cherry Godfrey offices?! Is it something you hope to continue after the challenge?
These last four months it has taken over my life! I have been practising early in the mornings in the office, as well as when I’m out for walks (I have had a few funny looks from people out walking their dogs). After the challenge I hope to continue – I’d like to learn other dances, and would like to take some of the dance classes that Jamie and Bonnie offer [at their dance school].
Finally, if you could dance with anyone on earth – living or dead, famous or personal – who would it be?
I have three options. If my dad was still here he would be my first choice; followed by Patrick Swayze or Giovanni Pernice.
