A Vernon teen danced her way to a national crown in highland dance.
Rebecca Acob became the Canadian champion in the 16 and under category, at the Scotdance Canada Championship Series, hosted in Kamloops from July 7-11.
"It was very exciting, it is something I dreamt about for a very long time," Acob told The Morning Star.
The five-day competition saw over 700 dancers from from across Canada, Scotland, USA, New Zealand and Australia converge into B.C.'s tournament capital to dance to national medals. Athletes ranged in age categories from four to 25 and up.
Acob competed during the Canadian competition, where the top three representatives from each province took part in seven age categories.
The 15-year-old has been dancing since she was eight.
"I did the Okanagan Military Tattoo for ballet, and I was then put into the highland dance group which I loved," she said. "Highland is a big mental game and you learn how to overcome a lot of obstacles in your life."
Teacher Cheryl Rosborough from the Aviemore School of Highland Dance accompanied Acob during her dance.
Acob now will be off to Scotland, to compete for a spot at the World Championships, in August.
She admitted that she is "very nervous," for the trip to Scotland, but will rely on her dance group, and mother, Heather, for support.
"I do not know what to expect but my hope is that I can get top six and then compete at worlds," she said. "I am really excited."
