Claudia Li, second-year architecture undergraduate, won third place in the Same Sex Latin category at the Inter Varsity Dance Competition at Blackpool.
What's been the highlight of your sporting achievement so far?
Of course, the Inter Varsity Dance Competition (the National) at Blackpool a few weeks ago was a highlight, in which I won third place in the Same Sex Latin category. However, the highlight I was most proud of, was actually winning the Semi National in the Beginners Ballroom when I was in first year. Ballroom is a very traditional dance and being a female leader (dancing the guy's part) is always disadvantageous in mix-sex categories, even though I am much more talented in leading than following (the lady's part). Therefore, winning a mix-sex ballroom competition as a beginner was a huge achievement to me.
How did you get into your sport? What benefits does your sport have on your wellbeing and on your studies?
Latin has always been very popular in my home country China, but I only got to do it for a few months when I was little, before getting a back injury. I got to know ballroom from watching a Japanese anime called Welcome to the Ballroom, I accidentally saw the Cambridge dancesports team stall in the freshers fair, and later I found out the team has a very inclusive, supportive and positive atmosphere. I have been suffering from mental health problems for many years, but I can literally forget all the sad or stressful feelings after a dance session. Dancesport is literally a therapy, and a strong mental support of my life in Cambridge.
What inspires you?
In terms of dance, watching the advanced dancers in competitions has always been inspiring, and ultimately, I would like to compete in dancesports for as long as I can.
How can you help motivate and inspire other Lucy students to become more involved in sports?
Well, if any Lucian is hesitating with what sport to do, come and try dancesport! I promise you will fall in love with it!