Success for the Rhythmic Dance Twirlers

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All 16 athletes after their performance.

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Junior team, national champions.

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Emma Clarke, national freestyle champion.

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Emma Clarke, three-time national champion.

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Above: The whole squad with their medals.

Published: Sat 22 Mar 2025, 1:51 PM

The Rhythmic Dance Twirlers, a baton twirling club from Cavan led by Kelly Clarke, celebrated a triumphant showing at the Twirl Ireland Federation National Championships in February 2025. Over two weekends, 16 athletes aged five to 15 represented the club in this three-day event, securing multiple national titles and reinforcing their reputation as a powerhouse in Irish baton twirling.

The championships saw stand-out performances from individual athletes. Brileigh Fortmann earned the National Basic Strut Champion title, showcasing her precision in this fundamental discipline. Zoe Tiernan claimed the National Solo Champion crown, demonstrating technical skill and artistry.

Emma Clarke dominated with first-place finishes in International Solo, Fancy Strut, and Freestyle Solo, highlighting her versatility across events that demand baton mastery and creative choreography.

Team success was equally impressive. The Junior Baton team triumphed in a competitive freestyle category, earning the Junior Freestyle Baton Team National Champion title with a routine that blended synchronization and innovation. The full squad of 16 athletes competed in the POM group event, incorporating pom-poms into their baton work, and finished a close second, underscoring the club’s depth of talent.

For the second consecutive year, the Rhythmic Dance Twirlers received the National Spirit Award, recognising their sportsmanship and enthusiasm. This accolade reflects the club’s focus on fostering a positive, inclusive environment alongside competitive excellence.

The event, a highlight of the Irish baton twirling calendar, drew top competitors, making these achievements even more notable.

The club is currently partnering with the Cavan Sports Partnership in the Active Communities program to promote physical activity and expand access to the sport.

With classes in Kingscourt and Bailieborough, they are inviting new boys and girls to join, offering opportunities for beginners and experienced twirlers alike.

The Rhythmic Dance Twirlers’ success at the 2025 championships—spanning individual titles, team victories, and the Spirit Award—positions them as a leading force in baton twirling, with a bright future ahead as the sport continues to grow in Ireland.