15 Year Old Tap Dances Circles Around World’s Best, Wins Top Prize At “Olympics Of Dance”

TORONTO, ON – When it comes to dancing, Canadians have the tap bug. Dance student  Lara Renaud wins the top medal for her tap dance solo at this year’s Dance World Cup, held this July in Whistler, BC.

“It’s an incredible accomplishment to win at this event,” says dance expert Shawn Byfield (www.ShawnByfield.com) who’s taught tap dance in Canada for over 25 years. “Countries from around the world send their top students, to compete for the gold medal. It’s just like the Olympics, but for dance.”

Byfield, who is Renaud’s Toronto tap dance teacher, says it’s not easy being a champion. Many dedicated hours, lots of sweat, early mornings, and exhausted feet discourage dancers from reaching this kind of success. But because of Renaud’s love and passion for dance, the work doesn’t dissuade her.

“She’s such a motivated dancer and always rises to a challenge. I’m so very proud of her!”

Over 8,000 dancers globally have competed at Dance World Cup. Dance World Cup is recognized by the International Dance Council, and celebrated its 10th anniversary season at Fairmont Château Whistler Resort.

“When I got off stage, many people and dancers came to say how amazing it was!” shares Lara, excited about her Gold medal win for her tap dance solo. “There were dancers from USA, Mexico, India, China, Russia, Romania, Poland, Gambia, and all Canadian Provinces and Territories.”

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