WHEN Hoppers Crossing resident Mary Clarence comes upon a challenge, she digs her boots in, tips her hat and puts her best foot forward.
The 75-year-old started line dancing five years ago to get out of her comfort zone and has progressed so far that she is now taking part in boot scooting demonstrations with Cactus Moon Line Dancing.
It has not been easy for Ms Clarence, who has limited mobility in one leg due to a knee replacement and difficulty waving one arm, which has two screws in it.
“They’re both kind of weaknesses but I just overcome it by substituting other steps,” she said.
Ms Clarence decided to take up line dancing as a challenge after admiring the rhythm of line dancers on a trip to Swan Hill several years ago.
“I don’t really even like challenges but this is something I really and truly wanted to do,” she said.
“It took me months to learn the basic steps because it was so strange at first.
“And it was difficult getting over the fear of starting something new”"
When she finally mastered the basics Ms Clarence decided to challenge herself further by dancing in front of other people at social dances.
“That was quite a different atmosphere and another challenge to overcome – that fear of doing it in front of people who know what they’re doing,” she said.
“Then I became part of the demonstrations and that is another fear I am overcoming — dancing in front of strangers.”
Ms Clarence said line dancing made her feel 10 years younger and has urged more seniors to get involved in activities that will challenge them.
“You just have to get over it and take something challenging on. It doesn’t matter what it is,” she said.
“If you don’t use it you lose it.
“My kids don’t get it so I tell them I’m just a recycled teenager.”
