Twirlers from throughout The Villages came together Wednesday morning to take part in celebrating World Baton Twirling Day.
More than 50 members of The Villages Twirlers and Drum Corps were joined at the Laurel Manor Recreation Center tennis courts by members of the Hometown Twirlers and others from throughout Florida’s Friendliest Hometown who aren’t affiliated with any teams but enjoy the sport of twirling.
Ann Pelle, captain of The Villages Twirlers and Drum Corps, said she thoroughly enjoyed the experience and was happy to spend time with Judy Marshall, whom she called the “original” twirler in The Villages who taught at the Lifelong Learning College back in January 2003.
Pelle also praised Tom Miller for carrying the colors for the national anthem and members of her drum corps for providing the beat with their cadences.
“Coming out once a year and meeting up with all of the twirlers in The Villages is a great way to show the love of this sport,” Pelle said. “And a huge thank you to Judy Marshall for sharing the morning and teaching us!”
World Baton Twirling Day was created to increase worldwide awareness and participation in the sport of baton twirling. This year’s theme was “the beat of my own drum,” highlighting the importance of celebrating the individual style that each person twirls with.
“Whether it’s ballet, street, contemporary, circus or just a whole lot of sass, we are celebrating your individuality, creativity and the freedom of artistry of our sport,” the World Baton Twirling Federation’s website states.