Like mother, like daughter: Ballroom and Latin champions showcase Canada's talent abroad, 40 years apart

Blackpool may seem like an ordinary seaside town in the United Kingdom, known for its tower and entertainment on the piers, but it is also home to the world’s oldest and most prestigious ballroom and Latin dance competition. 

And despite its low popularity in Canada compared to Europe and Asia, Canadians excel at this sport. 

Four-time world finalists Virginie Primeau and Nikita Druzhynin, who came to Blackpool from Montreal’s South Shore, defeated more than 100 couples in the amateur ballroom category (which actually means professionals aged 18-30) and reached the semifinals this week.

The Blackpool Dance Festival dates back to 1920 and is