Alesia Vazmitsel: A Competitive Mindset

November 14, 2011

Alesia Vazmitzel Photo by Millie Robson

Dream In Reality (exclusive on her reaction after winning a world title)

Some people were asking me, “What did I feel when I won?” Well, It is still like a dream from which I could not wake up for some time. This year I wanted to create something more simplistic, without big props or dresses, even without shoes! I think every dancer sometimes dream about her/him dancing while asleep. Thinking of my dreams, I have always been a girl with dreams in my head but without too high expectations of them becoming a reality. It is true that many of my moves that you saw past and most recent year’s competitions were coming from my dreams where I was kind of flying. Sometimes I even get up from bed to try a move or a combination so I could see if it was really possible to make it on the pole or if it was just another impossible move again.

I was not sure if I wanted to compete this year again. This was my third World Championship and everyone who competes knows how much time they spend on practicing and probably understands me. It is even more difficult for me as I do not have my own school and people around who could give me another opinion or recommendation regarding my routines. As I practice alone, I take all the risk and responsibilities for what the outcome is. Yes, it is hard to be perfect and please everyone. I know my performances have not always been perfect and routines smooth. That always made me think that my routines were not good enough and I was not ready to compete. I like competing, but I like performing the best. I enjoy so much being on the stage, feeling the floor and the pole, lights and catching audience’s attention.

I want to thank my family for being very supportive and I apologize for the little time spent at home. My friends stopped calling me at some point knowing that I was “locked” in the studio and practicing. I felt guilty not being able to spend more time with them and I missed lots of sunny days that I only saw from studio windows while other people enjoyed the summer. However, I knew I was not alone! Somewhere close or on other side of the world, thousands of girls are doing the same and it is becoming a lifestyle. I do not complain because it is my life choice and someone who has become addicted to the Pole would understand me.

When I traveled to Budapest to compete again this year, I doubted if I could even get through to the finals. Almost 70 contestants from all over the world applied to compete and only 12 best ones qualified to perform on Saturday night finals in front of the audience. I was one of those lucky ones who got chosen to the finals. To start with, I was afraid that I would not even get a chance to show my routine live as the preliminary round was closed for public viewing. After preliminaries, I could not wait till Saturday’s Final. I was not nervous and I was so surprised at how easy and friendly the atmosphere was on the day of the competition. I met other competitors, most of them I knew from the previous competitions. We were gathered in the backstage, stretching together and having long conversations. I never watch anyone’s performance on the day of a competition because I believe it can affect your own confidence. I could see how some girls reacted when they saw a great performance on the stage.

Even now I remember every second of me being on the stage. It had never been so easy to make complicated moves, control strength and breathing. Once I heard my music, I just forgot that I was competing. The stage was full of light that felt warm and comfortable, not the usual cold that doesn’t make your eyes go blind. I was so happy to be up on the pole, spinning, falling and catching it again. I couldn’t hear the audience screaming and couldn’t see the flashes from the cameras. For once I left the stage absolutely happy enjoying my dancing. This time I didn’t go to compete, I went to perform. This is something that I really like to do, without thinking of the rules and judging criteria. I wanted to feel free and make the audience connect with me. The audience is my best judge, I want to dance and make everyone happy. One hour later all finalists lined up in front of the audience again waiting for judges’ decision.

Photo by Sasha Gesler

The whole world went upside down and the ground fell from under my feet when the Head Judge announced the winner. I couldn’t believe it was me and I stood still for a while as I wanted to make sure I was not dreaming. Tears started to roll down stopping me to say a word.

On that evening my dream came through, but it doesn’t stop me creating more and being myself. I have finally time for my family and friends.

I wish everyone who competes good luck and remember to believe in your dreams!

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