The announcement that breakdancing will make its debut at the Paris Olympics in 2024 has raised a few eyebrows, including those of a Wollongong dancing expert.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Don Napalan, co-founder of Street Beatz dance studio, has been heavily involved in the art form for 20 years, but had mixed feelings when he heard of its inclusion.
"At first [I was] a bit hesitant in a way because I was like, 'I hope it doesn't get over-exploited' or they don't try and fully change how it works, but the more I thought about it ... I was pretty happy," he said.
"What an opportunity it is for the next generation - and the public - to be exposed to it and really get a better understanding of what it's about ... because [it's not just] spinning on your head."
The International Olympic Committee voted on December 7 to include the art form in competition, dumping traditional sports like baseball and softball after July's rescheduled Tokyo Olympics.
The IOC reportedly had a view to modernise the Games, and have limited competitors to a total of 10,500 with a 50-50 gender split.
Other "urban sports" to be included in the Paris program are surfing, sport climbing and skateboarding (which will all make their debut in July for the rescheduled Tokyo Games).
There's always going to be people who are hating on it, which is more of a reason to really believe and push for it.
- Don Napalan
The Australian Breaking Association credits African-American, Latino and Caribbean youth in the Bronx in New York City developing the art form throughout the 1970s - with practitioners labelled "b-boys", "b-girls" or "breakers".
"[It's] a form of street dance and hip-hop culture that incorporates personal style, athleticism, intricate movements, and co-ordination," was the definition on the ABA's website.
"There is a large array of diverse breaking repertoire, including toprock, downrock, freeze and powermoves."
Mr Napalan is hopeful some of his students from Street Beatz will be able to qualify and make it to Paris in 2024.
As for the haters, they are always going to hate.
"Any big change there's always going to be people who are ... hating on it, which is more of a reason to really believe and push for it," Mr Napalan said.
"When you really think about what is involved in it, it's almost as much as gymnastics - like rhythmic gymnastics is like a dance but athletic - it requires a lot of training to be able to do it."
Desiree Savage
At the helm of Australia's premier publication for people aged over 55, covering hard hitting issues, travel, lifestyle and entertainment. Got a hot tip? Email me - edit@TheSenior.com.au
At the helm of Australia's premier publication for people aged over 55, covering hard hitting issues, travel, lifestyle and entertainment. Got a hot tip? Email me - edit@TheSenior.com.au
