Regionals Dancesport 2026: Music City, Milestones & Memories

There are some competitions that remind you why you fell in love with ballroom dancing in the first place, and Regionals Dancesport 2026 was certainly one of them. From exploring the heart of Music City to celebrating incredible achievements on the competition floor, this year's trip was filled with laughter, friendship, outstanding dancing, and unforgettable moments.

A Warm Welcome to Nashville

Our adventure began on Wednesday, July 22, as Chuck & Nicole Chittick, Wendell & Yvette Hill, Zay & Holly Risinger, Donna, and Milly arrived in Nashville and checked into the beautiful Westin Nashville.

That evening we kicked off the trip with dinner before heading to one of Nashville's most iconic attractions—the Grand Ole Opry. Seeing this legendary stage, enjoying an incredible performance, and taking the backstage tour was the perfect way to begin our weekend together. There is simply something special about experiencing the history and tradition of country music in person.

Discovering the Best of Music City

Thursday was all about experiencing everything that makes Nashville unique.

We started the morning with breakfast before exploring the Country Music Hall of Fame, where everyone wandered through exhibits showcasing the incredible history of country music. From legendary costumes and instruments to fascinating stories behind some of the biggest names in music, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Next came a tour of the famous RCA Studio B, where music legends including Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, Roy Orbison, and Waylon Jennings recorded some of their greatest hits. Standing inside such an iconic recording studio was truly a memorable experience.

After lunch at Friends in Low Places (and a little bit of honky tonk dancing), we spent the afternoon strolling along Broadway, listening to live music pouring out of every venue, shopping, relaxing, and soaking in the atmosphere that makes downtown Nashville one of America's most exciting destinations.

An Unforgettable Dinner

Thursday evening, Josh joined the group along with Abby McCoy and her mother, Annemarie, just in time for one of the highlights of the trip.

Dinner at Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse exceeded every expectation.

From beautifully prepared steaks and fresh sushi to incredible appetizers, decadent desserts, handcrafted cocktails, and bottles of wine shared around the table, it was one of those evenings where nobody wanted the night to end. Great food is always enjoyable, but sharing it with wonderful friends makes it even better.

The conversations, laughter, and celebration made this dinner one we'll be talking about for a long time.

Competition Time

Friday and Saturday shifted our focus from sightseeing to what we all came for—the dance floor.

Our students danced with confidence, poise, and determination throughout the weekend, demonstrating months of preparation and countless hours of practice. Every heat represented another opportunity to grow, challenge themselves, and celebrate the progress they've made.

Our professional team also had an outstanding weekend, proudly representing Celebrity Ballroom on the competition floor.

Congratulations to Our Award Winners!

We were thrilled to celebrate some incredible accomplishments during Saturday evening's Top Awards ceremony:

🏆 Zay & Holly Risinger — Top Newcomer Amateur Couple

🏆 Wendell & Yvette Hill — Top Bronze Amateur Couple

🏆 Josh Crenshaw — 2nd Place Top Teacher

🏆 Celebrity Ballroom Dance Studios — Top Studio Overall

We are so proud of every student who competed this weekend. Whether you were taking your very first steps onto the competition floor or adding to years of experience, every dancer contributed to the incredible energy and success of our studio.

Congratulations to Zoe & Michael

A special congratulations also goes to Zoe and Michael, who continued their impressive professional journey by earning:

🥇 1st Place Professional Novice

🥈 2nd Place Professional Pre-Championship

Watching them continue to develop as competitors is exciting, and we know this is only the beginning of what's ahead for them.

"Saved by the Ballroom"

Saturday night concluded with one of the most anticipated traditions of Regionals Dancesport—the annual professional staff production.

This year's show, "Saved by the Ballroom," transported everyone back to the 1990s with a hilarious high school-themed performance full of creative choreography, colorful costumes, nostalgic music, and plenty of laughs.

One of the things that makes this production so special is that it isn't performed by just one studio. Instead, instructors from studios across Tennessee and Georgia come together to create something truly unique. This year's cast included professionals from:

• World Champion Productions – Hendersonville

• World Champion Productions – Mt. Juliet

• National Dance Clubs of Franklin

• Live 2 Dance – Belle Meade

• Go Dance – Knoxville

• Celebrity Ballroom Dance Studios

Watching everyone collaborate and perform together is always one of the highlights of the entire weekend and reminds us how connected and supportive the ballroom dance community truly is.

Ending the Weekend Inspired

Sunday morning, before everyone headed home, we gathered for one final breakfast together.

As we reflected on the weekend, everyone shared their favorite memories—from unforgettable meals and Nashville adventures to competition successes and moments on the dance floor.

The conversations weren't about medals or placements as much as they were about friendships, personal growth, and the excitement for what's coming next.

We left Nashville feeling energized, inspired, and more motivated than ever as we now turn our attention toward our upcoming Showcase and the Tampa Bay Classic.

Thank you to every student, instructor, family member, and supporter who made this weekend so special. Congratulations again to all of our competitors and award winners. We are incredibly proud of everything you accomplished, and we can't wait to see what the rest of 2026 has in store.

Here's to the next adventure—see you at Showcase! 💙🕺💃

Regionals Photo Album