2010 World Athlete Interview – Alycia French. Senior Women Freestyle.

When did you begin baton twirling?
I first started in 1995 when I was 6 years old. I joined the Syndal Baton Twirlers where Mara and Gail were my coaches.

What is your fondest memory of baton twirling?
Back in the day at “twirling camp” Elaine, Shalina and I entered the Talent Quest. We managed to bring the house down with a homey-G rap ensemble which incorporated the melody of Fresh Prince of Belair, break dancing and some ridiculously baggy clothing! I’ll never forget the lyrics :)

What has been one of your favourite routines to date?
I can’t go past our Australian Jungle team in America – epic! The funniest routine I’ve ever done was our Sister Act Specialised from last year that we won Nationals with! But I would have to say that this year’s freestyle has to be my favourite, the song means a lot to me and I just love performing it, can’t wait for everyone to see it at worlds!

When was your first World Championships?
The first time I went to worlds was in 2001 – Paris, France. I competed in Junior Pairs and I remember having to go on straight after Sebastian and Angelique (my favourite pairs ever!)… how embarrassing that was! But I loved worlds so much that I’ve actually been every year since, except for ’08 Canada which unfortunately clashed with university commitments :( but it didn’t worry me too much since I already had the chance to visit Canada for ’02 worlds. Nonetheless, the atmosphere is just so addictive!

What are you looking forward to most about Norway?
I am looking forward to competing as a Senior Women Freestylist and making Australia proud! As always, I am looking forward to exploring and learning about the culture of a country I have never been to before. What's more is I'll gladly be able to join the spectators for the team section!

What is your goal for twirling this year?
This year I want to perform a PB for both short program and freestyle. I just want to walk away being proud of my scores that will hopefully beat my previous individual world ranking! I have already fulfilled some of my goals this year in accomplishing certain tricks and rolls so I can’t wait for Norway! I also want to help in increasing awareness of our sport… hence why I created this Blog and Facebook fan page - I hate to see such a remarkable sport go unnoticed.

Who is your baton twirling idol?
Sébastien Dubois has always been a favourite of mine and I was devastated when he stopped competing… His ’01 pairs routine with Angelique was a highlight, but his freestyle routines always drew me in - the tight baton work and amazing theatrics won me over! Encore!