An interview with the organiser

On Friday afternoon we reserved a short moment to talk with the organiser, Mr. Valdis Skutans, who was in the middle of many last-minute changes and preparing everything for the Saturday morning. His phone kept ringing, but we managed to get some comments during his busy afternoon.

For Mr. Skutans, the 2019 WDSF European Standard Championship is the third consecutive year with WDSF title events in Standard. He, together with his team, organised the 2017 World Championship U21 Standard and 2018 European Cup Standard in this same, relatively new venue, the Salaspils Sports Hall. This year the team of about 20 people has made a double effort as there are two title events during the same day: 2019 WDSF European Championship Standard and 2019 WDSF European Cup Latin.

When asked about his dedication to Standard dancing and DanceSport in whole he explained: ”I was a 10-times Latvian Standard Champion and in semifinals in the World and European Championships. I am also an Adjudicator, and organising events seems natural: from a dancer to a coach to an adjudicator and to an organiser. I think it shows how important part of my life DanceSport is. What I find amazing is that many of my fellow competitors of those days are now doing this with me, and for example some of them are adjudicating in my event.”

Latvia has very strong traditions in DanceSport and Mr. Skutans continued: ”It will mean a lot and it is important for Latvia to be hosting the 2019 WDSF European Championship Standard, for the first time ever in Latvia. Not only because of the traditions, but also because of the very strong Latvian couples who have the potential to make it all the way to the top.”

The table seats are fully booked, but there might still be some seats available on the stands. Mr. Skutans said he is sure the venue will be full at the time when the evening is closer to semifinals and finals.

We wish Mr. Skutans and his amazing team all the best for tomorrow!

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By Auli Korhonen on 10 May 2019 19:31