College Place Middle School student finishes 5th at national dance competition

Felix Sindora, a talented 13-year-old dancer from Edmonds, and his partner Stefaniia Chudova, 10, made waves at the 2025 U. S. National Amateur DanceSport Championships by securing a fifth-place finish in the National Junior Rhythm Championship. Competing at the BYU Marriott Center in Provo, Utah, the pair showcased their skills in various dance styles, including cha-cha, American rumba, and swing, after successfully advancing through the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds against 15 couples. Felix's journey in dance began shortly after his sixth birthday, sparked by a mesmerizing performance from his father, which compelled him to enroll in classes.

With training at NIKA International Academy of Dancesport under coach Ekaterina Zakharoff, Felix has honed his skills in various ballroom styles while recently expressing a keen interest in Latin dancing. His mother, Julie, noted that this focus on rhythm dance opens up more competitive opportunities for Felix. During the competition, Felix found it challenging to maintain his stamina through five consecutive dances, each lasting about 90 seconds. This championship experience was particularly thrilling for Felix, marking his first finals appearance at a national level. His passion for dance has evolved from a fun activity to a deep-seated commitment, showcasing his dedication and talent in the sport.