Success for Local ‘Be Active’ Participants in Just Dance Championships

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Be Active dance class participants secured podium places at the recent Just Dance Championships in Drumnaquoile.

Ten women attending a weekly Be Active dance class in Down Leisure Centre showcased their talents when they entered the First Steppers Open Silver Division.  Putting their best foot forward in what was a competitive debut, the group participated in line dancing to captivate the judges and audience alike.

In deciding to join the Be Active programme, participant Angela Doherty from Downpatrick said, “I had heard about the Be Active classes that the Council run within the leisure centres.  When I looked into it, there was a great selection of classes to choose from. Having decided to join the dance class, I knew it was going to be a fun way to exercise – there is a great atmosphere. We were a little reluctant to enter the competition, but our coach Jenna helped us every step of the way, teaching us dancing and helping us grow in confidence, so we thought we would give it a go!”

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Outgoing Vice Chairperson, Councillor Gareth Sharvin said, "We are incredibly proud of our Be Active participants, especially these wonderful ladies. They are an inspiration and represent the ethos of the Be Active programme - to have fun whilst improving health and wellbeing.  The Council is committed to continuing and expanding the Be Active programme, ensuring that more residents can benefit from its very positive impact”.

The Be Active fitness classes, available across all Council leisure centres, promote improved physical and mental health. The programme offers a diverse range of activities for people of all ages and fitness levels, led by trained fitness coaches, ensuring a supportive and effective environment for all participants.

For more information about the Be Active fitness programme and how to get involved, please visit the NMD Be active app or contact the Sports Development Officer Colleen Morrison on colleen.morrison@nmandd.org