UKAPP Newbury Heat Preview with Kate Edwards (nee Johnstone)

We're excited about the UK Amateur Pole Performer competition. It's back for 2013 and it's going to be bigger  bigger and better. We talk to te Edwards (nee Johnstone) who will kick start this years proceedings with the first heat in Newbury this weekend. We can't wait!

1.The Newbury UKAPP heat will take place next week. How is the event shaping up?
This year Newbury is the first of the UKAPP heats and its going to be such an exciting event. We have a new category of Aerial Hoop this year (close to my heart!) and I cant wait to see what the competitors have come up with!

2.Tell us about the categories and competitors.
There are five categories – four in pole (performer, intermediate, expert and doubles) then our new category – aerial hoop. At Newbury we have over 30 amateurs competing this year!

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 for this heat are Pippa Caesar, Jo Dandridge, Donna Gant, Sarah Brown, Bendy Kate and Nicole Pearson – an internationally renowned panel. Each category has a different focus with the judging – to allow competitors to excel in their own field, be it performance or tricks!

4.How is UKAPP different and what do you hope to contribute to the pole dance community with the event?
UKAPP offers amateurs the chance to compete in a welcoming and friendly competition. There is no qualifying round – so any amateur gets the chance to perform in front of an audience and gain feedback on their work.



5.How did you first get interested in pole dancing, what made you try it?
It feels like an age ago! My friend Nicola had learnt at Bobbi's in Sydney and she encouraged me to try it as she had an X-Pole at home.

6.What is it about pole dancing that you enjoy the most?
Two things really – the friendships I have made through pole and the fact that after 5/6 years as a sport and fitness regime – it is still challenging me!

7.What are your 3 favourite pole moves and why?
Drops, Rolls and Power moves all the way! I love pole to be dynamic and exciting!

8.What are your favourite strength training moves on the pole and why?
I currently use my aerial hoop for a lot of my strength and conditioning work – I found it has really added a new element to my pole work increasing my strength and my flexibility!

9.What pole dancers do you admire or inspire you?
At the moment, I love to watch the ladies from Body and Pole – Michelle Stanek and Marlo Fisken.

10. How do you think pole dancing has evolved over the past few years?
I think its great that pole is continually evolving – at Spin City we make a pole bible to keep a track of all the moves in photo form – our book has grown immensely since we started! New moves are emerging all the time!

11.Three words that mean pole dancing to you.
Strong. Fierce. Innovative.

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