James’ Trip to Ireland

James qualified to compete in the World Irish Dancing Championships after finishing in 2nd place in the Western Regional Championships this fall. The World Championships have been canceled the last two years so everyone was thrilled to be able to compete and celebrate  this year.

The 50th Anniversary of the World Championship competition was held in Belfast, Ireland. James traveled to Ireland with his Mom the week before he danced. This provided them the opportunity to get acclimated to the time zone and visit family in Dublin and in Sligo. They had some great adventures on trains, and James loved seeing and feeding goats, donkeys, cattle and horses!

In Belfast, they were able to visit more family and friends, including taking a photo at his Grandfather’s childhood home. He was ready to compete on the big stage and danced two types of dance: one with hard shoes and one with a softer shoe. James had a great experience and finished in 39th place overall for boys his age! After the competition, they spent the next few days visiting Giants Causeway and touring the sites in Dublin, including a few places where PBA sang during tour a few years ago!

James was so thankful for the support of PBA and his teachers as he prepared for the competition and was out of school for several days.

A little more about James: His favorite PBA memory is going on retreat with the choir. His favorite things to do outside of choir and dance are listening to music and watching basketball. Favorite sports teams: The Warriors and the A’s. Favorite colors: blue and green. Favorite vacation spot: Ireland is the best place so far! Favorite animal: dogs.

Click first photo for gallery.