Appel, Israilova Aim to Defend Their Titles at 2025 National Solo Dance Final
Salt Lake City, Utah, is set to stage an unforgettable showdown as over 200 elite athletes converge for the highly anticipated 2025 National Solo Dance Final, taking place from September 11-14. This will be the inaugural hosting of the event at the Salt Lake City Sports Complex, a venue with a rich history steeped in Olympic tradition, having previously hosted the 2002 Olympic Winter Games and gearing up for the 2034 Winter Olympics.
The National Solo Dance Final will showcase competitions across three thrilling categories: solo pattern dance, shadow dance, and the combined solo dance. The stakes are high as qualification to this prestigious event hinges on performances during the 2025 Solo Dance Series, which ran from March to August. Only the top six skaters in the solo pattern dance and combined events, along with the three best shadow dance teams at each level, will earn their place on the championship stage.
This year, returning champions Lucas Appel and Amal Israilova are back to defend their titles in the senior combined solo dance and international solo pattern dance events, respectively. Appel aims for an impressive third gold, while Israilova seeks her second consecutive victory in a competition known for showcasing the finest talents.
Anticipation builds as last year’s junior gold medalist, Dessie Hoewing-Moxley, prepares for her debut in the senior combined solo dance event, alongside previous champion Khloe Felton, who will shift her focus to the international solo pattern dance this year.
The event will also pay tribute to the cherished coach Alexandr “Sasha” Kirsanov, whose legacy will live on with a trophy awarded in his memory to the junior dance event winner. Kirsanov tragically lost his life alongside 27 others in a plane crash earlier this year, leaving a lasting impact on the solo dance community. Carol Wooley, the national vice chair for solo dance, emphasized his profound influence on the program since its inception.
As excitement mounts, fans can look forward to witnessing remarkable talent and fierce competition at the 2025 National Solo Dance Final.
