Olivia is dancing queen as she lifts European title

Olivia is dancing queen as she lifts European title

24 April 2024

A DOWNPATRICK dancing queen recently won the advanced junior division at the World Dance Masters European Championships in Ballybofey, Co Donegal.

It was a monumental week for 11 year-old Olivia McStravick, who also graduated to the Allstar division – becoming the youngest ever competitor to make it to the highest echelon.

Olivia became a quadruple European champion, winning solo, pro-amateur, partners and team titles.

“Ever since I started dancing, my dream was to always become an Allstar one day,” Olivia said.

“I always looked up to the Allstars. Becoming an Allstar is the greatest feeling I’ve ever felt in my life.

“Dancing has always been my favourite thing to do – I love it so much.”

Olivia continued: “I couldn't have become an Allstar without the best dance teachers and team supporting me – they are the best dance family ever.

“I also want to say a massive thank you to my mummy, Laura. I couldn’t do my dancing without you and I love you so much.”

Olivia has been dancing since the age of five and currently trains with JD Dance Studio, a dance troupe in Coalisland, Co Tyrone.

She is no stranger to collecting silverware. Last year Olivia competed at the World Dance Masters held at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, racking up three world championships in different categories.

JD Dance Studios paid tribute to Olivia’s success on their Facebook page. 

“Congratulations to Miss Olivia McStravick on gaining her last point and graduating into the Allstar Division,” it said.

“Her hard work, dedication, drive and absolute love of dance shows every time she steps onto a dance floor.

“Olivia has grown into an incredible dancer, a beautiful young girl and we are so proud of her.

“She is a huge inspiration to our dancers at JD Dance. We are so excited to see Olivia dance in her dream division.” 

Olivia is a P7 pupil at St Colmcille’s Primary School in Downpatrick.

On their Facebook page the school said that everyone was very proud of “this remarkable talent”.