A Stunning Victory for Ukraine’s Young Dance Duo
At the International Open Championship held as part of the International Dance Championship 2026 in the United Kingdom, two young Ukrainian ballroom dancers, Oleksandr Mulliar from Ternopil and Mariya Bakalor from Kyiv, clinched the gold medal in the under-12 category. Despite only training together for two months, their performance captivated both judges and spectators alike, showcasing remarkable talent and dedication.
Oleksandr resides in Ternopil, while Mariya lives in Kyiv. Overcoming the challenge of distance, Mariya regularly travels between the two cities for joint practice sessions, highlighting their commitment and perseverance. Their success at this international event, which featured competitors from various countries, marks a significant achievement for these promising young dancers.
Building on Past Triumphs and Supporting the Community
This latest accomplishment follows a series of impressive results by Ukrainian dancers on the global stage. Nearly a year ago, 7-year-old Zlatoslava Veres earned first place in the under-8 category at the World Ballroom Dance Championship in Assen, Netherlands, underscoring the rising prominence of Ukraine’s youth in competitive dance worldwide.
In addition to competitive achievements, Ukraine has launched initiatives that use dance therapy to support military veterans transitioning back to civilian life, their families, and the loved ones of fallen or captured defenders. More information about these programs is available on the Rubryka website.
“Hours of training, countless kilometers traveled, and relentless effort have led to this first major triumph! Congratulations to our young talents!” — Ukrainian Sport TV representatives
The victory by Oleksandr and Mariya not only validates the high caliber of Ukrainian athletes in ballroom dancing but also exemplifies how young people continue to excel internationally despite challenges. Their success serves as an inspiration to aspiring dancers across Ukraine and highlights the importance of nurturing emerging talent within the country’s sporting community.
As Ukraine continues to foster exceptional talent across various fields, the inspiring journey of young achievers like Oleksandr Mulliar and Mariya Bakalor resonates with stories of determination and skill. Another remarkable example is Oleksandr Zilenko, who at just 13 years old has become Ukraine's youngest certified barber, showcasing the country's commitment to nurturing youth talent in diverse professions. Such accomplishments highlight the potential of Ukraine's younger generation, both in the arts and trades.