The 64th All Japan University Students Ballroom Dance Competition was held on December 8, 2019, at Dokkyo University, where the pairs of Nomoto Hikaru and Nakata Noa and Miyagi Yuto and Arakawa Minami, from Okayama University Ballroom Dance Club, won 4th place in the divisions of slow foxtrot and paso-doble [two-step], respectively. In addition, the club achieved other good results: eight members from the club won 5th place in the formation dancing division and the team of the club won 7th place in the team competition division.

A total of 55 universities participated in the Competition. “Slow foxtrot” is one of the standard ballroom dances, which are performed by a man-woman pair close to each other. It is characterized by naturally flowing, beautiful movements. In contrast, “paso-doble” is a Latin-style dance performed by a man-woman pair apart from each other. It is characterized by strong and dynamic movements inspired by Spanish bullfighters. “Formation dancing,” or pattern team dancing, in which a number of couples (four to eight) perform a medley of two to four styles of dances in one or more lines, is for competition between teams. Since it requires a high level of teamwork, it is said that formation dancing is the most suitable for student dance teams, which usually put importance on team competitions.

After the Competition, Ms. Nakata said: “I’m very happy we were able to advance to the final round of a nationwide competition for the first time and win fourth place. We are still juniors and have one more year before graduation; I’ll keep on practicing to win first place at the next national competition. I don't want to have any regrets.” Ms. Shinkawa said: “I’m glad I was able to achieve my best result at my last competition as a university student. At the same time, I’m full of gratitude for all those who have supported me so far. I’ll use the ability and power I’ve fostered as a member of the club in my future life.” Ms. UNO Arisa, one of the eight members who performed in the formation dancing division, said, “I’ve faced various difficulties over the last year. However, thanks to many people who have given us cooperation and support, at last we were able to create a miracle at the nationwide competition. My heart is filled with satisfaction and gratitude.”