Finalists 2010 - Amateur Division

Caterina Gennaro, CA

www.poleates.com, www.caterinagennaro.com

Caterina owner of Poleates pole dancing studio in Westlake Village, California, is a former model and competitive gymnast, a world-renowned underwater photographer and shark diver, plus a Discovery Channel television personality and mother of twins. This athletic, multi-talented pole dancer has competed at international competitions like Pole-A-Polooza 2008 in Las Vegas and the USPDF Championships in New York City in 2009, and she continues to promote the sport at numerous Los Angeles area venues. 

Kyra Johannesen, NY

Kyra began choreographing and dancing professionally in 1999. In 2006, Kyra discovered pole dancing. She quickly embraced this new form of dance and shortly after was asked to develop the pole dancing program for Crunch gym. Kyra has appeared on national television, and numerous media outlets, to show and discuss her style of pole dancing. She has taught master workshops in Europe and has recently joined the forces of Body & Pole in NYC. She is excited to bring her style of pole dancing to the world.

Becca Butcher, UT

Rebecca Butcher became interested in Pole Fitness when her and her husband went in for a couples class. She was hooked from her very first spin.  She grew up, climbing trees, mountains and doing Karate, and enjoys all forms of fitness. She's an instructor at Studio BLUE, teaching all levels of Pole, and Aeriel Silks.  "It's exciting to research new moves and combinations and share with all the girls as we learn together and challenge each other, and leave feeling empowered as a woman."

Mina, CA

www.youtube.com/uslagirl

Mina comes from a background in Dance and Gymnastics. She has been Pole Dancing for 2 years. She brings grace, strength, and flexibility to the pole. As a proud member of the ‘Vertigirls’, Mina performs in showcases all over Los Angeles and was recently featured in the LA Times. With a degree in Communications from UCLA, Mina’s resume includes experience in journalism and marketing.

Mina teaches pole classes at Allure and Evolve Dance studios in Los Angeles.  

Amy Guion, CA

www.kinetictheorytheatre.com, www.bespun.com

Amy trained for 15 years at a pre-professional ballet school and then decided to pursue her academic interests, graduating with a degree in the natural sciences. Amy has been pole dancing for 2 years at BeSpun, which she currently manages. She also trains in the aerial arts and contortion at Kinetic Theory Theatre and is a member of the Kinetic Theory Circus Troupe.

Amy Richard, CA

www.poletential.com

Born in Paris, France and classically trained in ballet since the age of 5, I recently discovered pole dancing following in the footsteps of my younger sister Amber. I am conducting my MA research, studying the relationship between dance and social interactions. The physical challenge, dynamics, artistic expression, and a great feeling of empowerment are the elements of pole dancing that keep me coming back for more and led me to really love this sport. As Jenyne Butterfly says, “For fun, for flight, for fitness!”