Breaking for gold in Morocco

Emerging from the 1970s hip hop scene in the United States, breakdancing is poised to make its debut in the upcoming Paris Olympics in 2024. In anticipation of this event and the opportunity to compete for a coveted gold medal, African participants recently showcased their skills in the inaugural African Breaking Competition, organised by the World Dance Sport Federation (WDSF).

Held in Rabat, Morocco, the competition brought together B-boys and B-girls from various countries across the continent. Among the standout performers was B-girl Courtnaé Paul, hailing from South Africa.

Courtnaé Paul: "This is my first time in Morocco. I'm very excited to be here. I've been on the WDSF journey for the last three years. I've won my nationals twice. I went to Seoul to compete, I just came back from Japan. So, this is a really big one for me and yeah, I am hoping to bring it home."

Characterised by its acrobatic movements, intricate footwork and impressive strength, breaking also includes DJs who play a crucial role in the dance form, skillfully blending and mixing tracks. Originating from hip hop, the dance form has expanded into other music genres, with DJs 'breaking' fusions of funk, soul, disco, electro, and jazz funk.

Competitions, such as the one in Rabat, consist of intense battles between two B-boys or B-girls, each striving to outperform the other with their unique moves. Despite the competitive nature, the battles are embedded in mutual respect and camaraderie amongst the breakers.

B-boy JC Kanane represents the breaking community in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

JC Kanane: "To meet dancers from different countries is already a good thing, because there are competitors from Angola, the Ivory Coast, Morocco, Algeria and Nigeria. So we meet here, we're united. It also allows us to get to know each other as dancers and it creates a union between us as a community. So, for me it's a pleasure to be here."

The first ever breaking Olympic gold medal awaits the first breaker Olympic champion in Paris 2024.

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