WITH a blend of high-flying acrobatics and popular Jamaican dance moves, Japan’s Attack Dem took top honours in the World Reggae Dance Competition held on the lawns of the Ranny Williams Entertainment Centre in St Andrew on Monday.

Their opening set saw one of the Osaka-based dancers being thrown high through the air and landing like an aeroplane with accompanying music to match. They were an instant crowd favourite.

“Everybody danced well. It was a dream of ours to be number one in the world,” said Ryosuke Zushi, leader of the six-member outfit.

“We have big plans. We are taking this title as a symbol of cultural exchange; to learn reggae dance and explore good food in Jamaica,” he continued.

Their choreography was sharp and effortless. Females screamed as they enjoyed the waist-line movements of the group.

The other members are Ryo Takaoka, Shaketown Yamamoto, Saigou Byakuno, Yusaku Hayachi, and Tatsuya Hashimoto.

A total of 14 groups entered the annual competition organised by the Jamaica Cultural Development Commission. In addition to Japan’s Attack Dem, there were other international entrants. These included Japan’s Yallow Yellow, Gaza Girls from Finland, and Unik Dancers from Guadeloupe.

Rounding out the top three were Japanese group Yallow Yellow in second place while third place went to local group Endevarous Dancers.

Attack Dem dancers walked away with two sectional prizes as Best Costumed Group and Best International Group; others were Gaza Girls Most Disciplined and Endevarous Dancers copped Best Rural Group.

See full highlights of this event in our online Photo Gallery: [naviga:h3]JCDC World Reggae Dance Championship (86 images)[/naviga:h3]