Emma's Pole Dancing Competition Preview

 With the EPDC taking place in Derby next week, we catch up with event organiser Emma Haslam to find out more...

1.EPDC (Emma's Pole Dancing Competition) will take place next week. How is the event shaping up compared to last year?
We now have an extra pole category Intermediate and TWO aerial hoop categories, we are nearly at a sell out for tickets. we also have a full structure so no stages.

2.Tell us about the categories and competitors.
Our categories are amateur, intermediate, advanced, doubles, expert, intermediate aerial hoop and Advanced Aerial Hoop.all competitiors had to go through video semi finals to reach the top spots there are 45 contestants.

3.As well as all the amazing competitors you also have a panel judges. Tell us about your judges and how the competitors will be marked?
Our judges are Donna Gant, Pippa Caesar, Daniel Rosen, Aimee Lawson, Sonia Allock and myself.  Competitors will be judged on Tricks, Transitions on and off, fluidity, entertainment, costume and overall. 

4.How did you first get interested in Pole dancing, what made you try it?
I have always loved to dance and decided to get a pole at home at self taught myself this was back in 2006

5.What is it about pole dancing that you enjoy the most?
How physically demanding it is and how you can create moves and choreograph routines in all different styles.

6. What are your 3 favourite pole moves and why?
Aysha, Spin and Snap, Swing out backwards (dislocator, grab behind). I love these as people are always impressed by them. 

7. What are your favourite strength training moves on the pole and why?
I don't really have a favourite but Shouldermount dismount, Legs lifts from hanging, Spider climb (don't really like this one but I make myself do it) 

8.What pole dancers do you admire or inspire you?
Pantera Blacksmith, Bendy Kate and Sally Ann Giles

9. How do you think pole dancing has evolved over the past few years?
I hope to think people now see it as a sport and see the gymnastic side of it

10.Three words that mean pole dancing to you. E.g strong, sexy, confidence
Confidence, Strength and Power

Find out more about Emma's Pole Dancing Competition here