March was all about one big thing… Boot Stomp in Gisborne - and what a weekend it turned out to be.
With no Clive Bootscootin’ social this month, all eyes (and boots) were on the first-ever Boot Stomp competition hosted by Rhythm ’n Lines.
Road trip vibes & Friday fun
It was a sunny Friday when we hit the road from Napier with Anna and Lily - and even hubby joined in for his first official line dancing roadie with the crew.
We arrived, settled into our accommodation, and naturally headed straight to Sunshine Brewery for a cold beverage… and some line dancing. I had just taught I Like It in class that week, so of course we had to give it a run. So much fun.
From there, we made our way to the meet and greet at the Poverty Bay Bowling Club. It was so cool seeing dancers from all over the North Island - familiar faces from socials and events, all coming together for something special. And yes… somehow I ended up behind the bar again, this time with Lily.
We then headed to celebrate Steve’s 50th birthday at Tahu on the beachfront. Gisborne really turned it on - stunning views, a glorious sunset, and a reminder that it’s a place close to my heart, being born there.
The night wrapped up in true Bootscootin’ style… gate crashing Tracy’s apartment, throwing marshmallows everywhere, and demolishing chocolate cupcakes from Steve’s party. Sorry Tracy… but honestly, hilarious.
Competition day – Let’s go
Bright and early Saturday, we were at the Boot Stomp comp - and wow.
With around 30 Clive Bootscooters there, this was our biggest group trip yet. The morning kicked off with solo dancers, and the talent on that floor was incredible.
Next up were the duo events, with our own Annie & Nneka and Anna & Vic both doing an amazing job representing the team.
Then… group time.
And guess who was up first? Stomping Ground.
There were definitely nerves, but thanks to some “fake tequila shots” from Boydy, hubby, and Sharon as we walked onto the floor, we were ready. And oh my goodness… we had the best time.
We also performed Necklace, and the boys’ team brought their energy too with Real Men Cry. Three Clive Bootscootin’ teams in the comp - how cool is that.
The Win (!!!)
Come prizegiving, they started calling up place-getters… but without saying who had placed where.
And then…
The screaming. The excitement. The absolute scenes.
Stomping Ground took out FIRST PLACE.
Honestly, such an incredible moment. Necklace also placed, tying for fourth, which was amazing. And the boys were our firm favourites.
So proud of our team and all the teams who competed, it takes courage and commitment to put yourselves out there, not to mention the amount of practice and team work.
Saturday might shenanigans
Saturday night took us to Smash Palace, where our very own Gone Country band was playing. Hearing them perform our songs and seeing everyone dancing from around the country was something special. And one more special moment - Gone Country has added Country Girl You Shook Me All Night Long (one of my choreographed dances) into their regular set list. That honestly means so much.
We also got to dance the contra dance Good Time, choreographed by Janine Kells from Rhythm ’n Lines with Bonnie Hurinui from White Chapel Jak taking the vocals for their song.
So much dancing. So much wine. So much fun.
A night to remember.
Beach mornings & the quiet drive home
Sunday morning came with slightly sore heads, but we rallied and headed down to Gisborne's Waikanae Beach for a team photo.
The Stomping Ground crew performed again on the waterfront, and we also danced Take Me to the Beach (which I’m still working on mastering)!
Then came the very quiet drive home.
The rest of March…
And somehow… that wasn’t even the whole month.
Back home, I continued teaching my five-week beginner series with an awesome crew - absolutely loved seeing their progress.
Then it was off to Auckland again for another concert - this time Jordan Davis and Tucker Wetmore at Spark Arena. I have to say… this might just be the best country concert I’ve been to yet. So, so good.
We stayed on a few extra days, relaxing with hubby - who is slowly but surely mastering Wagon Wheel (and even danced it at Smash Palace… progress!).
Reflection: March was a reminder of what happens when people come together with a shared passion.
From road trips to competitions, wins to wild nights, it’s never just about the dancing. It’s about the friendships, the laughter, the support, and those moments you wish you could bottle up forever.
Also… never underestimate the power of a fake tequila shot.
🎶 Song of the Month
Stomping Ground - Kat Boyd
Honourable mentions:
I Like It by Andrew Hayes and Rocket to the Sun by Maddison Glover – both firm favourites this month
