At the tender age of 72, Rowena decided not only to join a ladies Physie class, but to compete in a team and individually as a Beginner Lady as well!  Teacher Annette says, “It was her very first time in a leotard and on a physie competition floor. We are so proud of this women and very impressed with her efforts”.

What made you start physie?

I’ve always been a sporty person and, when my neighbour who has done Physie for years asked me along, I thought I’d see what it was all about.

What was it like when you went to class?

After two free introductory classes I said to my friend, “You must be joking! I can’t do this – I can’t even point my toe!” But, having the “I can’t let this beat me” attitude, I said I would join and give it a go. There were many times when I struggled with the choreography. Other than Ice Dancing, I had done no other form of dance. I’ve played Squash, Soccer, Softball and Athletics until I was 60 so it was very frustrating at times but I didn’t give up.

What was it like to compete?

It was fine once I got on the floor and knew there was no going back and I just prayed my mind would remember the routines, which it did (with just a few mistakes). I was very nervous about forgetting the routines before I competed but thought “Hey! I have worked very hard all year I have to do this.”

How did you feel afterwards?

I felt I had achieved what I had set out to do. At the beginning of the year I was completely hopeless with the whole concept of Physie deportment and positions and, even though I am flexible and strong enough, I found it hard with the coordination of correct arms and legs in the choreography. So I think, for me, it was a great achievement!

What do you like the most about physie?

I love the music that was in the syllabus this year. I absolutely loved the fact that l my deportment is much better and I loved the routines, once I could actually remember them. I loved being a part of a Physie family at Wauchope and being accepted as I have been. Everyone is so nice, friendly and helpful. I have also noticed that since Physie has finished for me this year and I have gone back to my weekly exercise class and the routines that I do at home (Yoga, Kickboxing, Aerobics etc.) that I am even stronger than before. So that is a big plus at my age.

Will you be back next year?

I would love to come back next year, all being well, and hope to be a much better Physie lady.