Caledon baton twirlers to compete at national competition in July

Amelia and Alicia Amaral took up baton twirling in 2019

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Two Caledon teens will soon be making the Town proud at a national baton twirling competition. 

Amelia Amaral, 17, and her sister Alicia, 13, are baton twirlers with Starlight Destiny Baton & Pom Pom Club, which serves the Peel and Halton areas.

The sisters will be competing at the Canadian Baton Twirling Championship in Oshawa from July 1 to 6. This will be the sisters' third national competition, as they've competed in two previous national competitions in New Brunswick and Alberta.

Amelia and Alicia grew up as dancers and took up baton twirling in 2019, instantly falling in love with the discipline. They enjoyed it recreationally at first and began competing two years ago.

“It's kind of like dance incorporated with a lot of skills and teamwork,” said Amelia.

She explained baton twirlers compete in individual and group categories.

To make it to nationals, baton twirlers have to qualify through provincial competitions. 

Amelia and Alicia practice with their team three times a week: three hours on Monday, two on Tuesday, and three on Wednesday. From March to July, they're usually in a competition every other weekend. 

“My favourite part is the people; I really enjoy my teammates, we always have fun and we always laugh,” said Amelia. “The competitions as well are something I really look forward to… even if I do bad at one competition, I know where to go from there and how to be better at the next one.”

Amelia and Alicia's mom, Helga, said she's really proud of her daughters and that it's been amazing to see their growth.

“To see their accomplishments is very good,” she said.

Amelia said flexibility and endurance are two of the most important skills required for baton twirling. Lynsay Johnston, an assistant coach with Starlight Destiny, added that dance technique and gymnastics skills are key.

Amelia said her favourite routine is the one she gets to do with her sister. She said they have so much fun doing it, and recently moved up a competition level, something they're very proud of.

“I enjoy it because we work together,” said Amelia.