Last weekend I participated in the Ontario Pole Fitness Championships in Milton. I was one of eight women in the Amateur division and, although I didn't place, the whole experience was unforgettable and completely inspirational. The atmosphere was full of excitement and camaraderie. Even though everyone was there to compete, we were also there to support each other and share in something for which we all have this incredible passion.
The makeup, the hair, the costumes, and everyone stretching and warming up as the air in the Teatro Centre hums with excited, nervous energy. It's almost electric. The clock creeps closer and closer to seven and I calm my mind; slow deep breaths fill my lungs as I close my eyes and meditate. Some of the girls are laughing and joking. Some are touching up hair, taping their costumes and affixing false eyelashes. The audience buzzes in the ballroom where the performances are to take place. I'm second to perform. I'm warm. I'm ready. I'm up.
I felt pretty good about how my routine went. I lost my centre a little bit on the spinning pole, but I made it through confidently and with a smile on my face. Looking at my score cards now, that was one of the things the judges liked most. They were also impressed by my lines and pointed toes (all those ballet and jazz years paid off). Overall, I'm happy with how I performed and proud of myself for participating in the first place. I came out of it with a renewed drive to be the best I can be, as well as a new community of pole friends. Seeing the talent of these women inspires me to come back next year and the year after and indefinitely after that. A sincere and heartfelt thank you goes out to all the performers, organizers, and volunteers from August 17th, not to mention my friends and family who came out to support me. My congratulations to the ladies in each category who placed and won, but also to the ones who didn't. Everyone performed and carried themselves with professionalism, grace, and positivity that is not always seen in the competitive world. You are all my inspiration. See you all again soon!
