Three Renfrew schoolgirls will be taking on the world at dancing as they look to impress judges in Canada.
The trio – who will be travelling to Montreal at the start of April – will be competing in the World Championships of Irish Dance where they will represent Scotland, hoping they can place as high as possible in the competition.
Alyssa Prele of St James’ Primary, Renfrew, and Mischa Lamond and Amy Hart – both fourth-year pupils at Trinity High – are looking to make their mark on the prestigious competition alongside their McQuade School of Irish Dance team-mates Hannah Shaw and Orlaith Lyons.
Dance teacher Andrea McQuade is backing the dedicated girls’ talent and says they deserve to be where they are.
Speaking to the Paisley Daily Express, Andrea said: “I am really excited for the girls to be going over there as they have worked so hard for it.
“Throughout covid they really stuck at dancing, whilst many gave up, and that is credit to them because it has paid off for them.
“I can’t really put into words how proud I am for them because I see how hard they work when they come to the classes.
“In all honesty, they spend more time with me than they probably do with some of their families and that is down to their love for dancing.”
While practising and trying to qualify for the World Championships, the girls have used every dance class to master their routines and to ensure they give themselves the best possible chance – with the schools of the respective representatives also helping out by giving them vital time off when required.
Meanwhile, the dancers are seeking sponsorship from Renfrewshire businesses in their bid to compete in Montreal – with flights and accommodation costs rising.
The group have set up a GoFundMe page for anyone wanting to help cover their expenses in North America and support the girls as they look to make Scotland proud.
The target is to raise £1,000 before they fly out to Montreal on Thursday, March 30, with the competition beginning two days later.
Andrea said the community has been so supportive – especially local supermarkets – and they appreciate any donations received.
She said: “The community has been amazing at helping the girls whenever they can, especially during covid.
“Neighbours would often ask if they could be shown dancing out on the streets whilst they were in the house during the pandemic.
“And to be back dancing at supermarkets, pubs and events like that is great as it gives the girls great experience in doing it in front of a crowd.
“Many of the girls who are going joined the class ten years ago when I started this and now to see them all grown up is amazing, as they are still dancing with me. They are like my family.”
If you would like to contribute towards the GoFundMe page set up for the dance students, you can do so by visiting www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/mcquade-irishdance-1
Don't miss the latest Renfrewshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
