They came, they danced and they got the crowd going crazy. In the end, only one team took home the coveted gold medal in the Modern Dancing category at MY Challenge last weekend.

SMK Kepong Baru

Five teams battled it out during the grand finale but it was the all-girls team from SMK Kepong Baru, Kuala Lumpur, that owned the stage and marked their presence in the judges hearts – earning them the top spot in the dance off.

They beat teams from SM Sri KDU (which had two teams in the final), SMK St Gabriel and SMK Pusat Bandar Puchong 1.

Judging from the thunderous applause the SMK Kepong Baru girls received after the announcement was made, there was no doubt that the crowd agreed with the judges’ selection as well.

“We can’t believe that we won! It was crazy to even perform in the competition but to win the whole thing is just unbelievable,” said group leader Christine Nah, 18.

Christine Nah (foreground)

It was a sweet victory for Christine, who ruled the stage with her solid moves and funky hairstyle, as she also took home the Best Dancer award.

“I really didn’t expect this win. We all worked so hard and this extra victory just means so much to me. My parents are really happy and they are excited. So are all my teachers and friends,” said a jubilant Christine.

One of the dance teams from SM Sri KDU also put on a strong performance albeit with a few missteps.

SM Sri KDU

“We’re quite disappointed, actually, but we are also happy that we came in second,” said Nickson Lai, 17.

The group suffered several mishaps during their final performance, which the boys think may have caused the judges to deduct a few points for their routine.

“We are happy with our performance, anyway. All of us had fun performing on stage and it was really great to work with each other. We only had two weeks to practise and we did quite well out there,” said Nickson.

Taking home the bronze medal were students from SMK Pusat Bandar Puchong 1.

SMK Pusat Bandar Puchong 1

“This is our first major competition and we got third place. Can you believe it? We are really excited,” said Jeffesin Wong, 17. The students were unable to contain their joy as they congratulated each other over their win.

“We all worked hard and this win is really encouraging for us. Our teachers, family and friends supported us throughout the competition and we are happy to make them all proud,” he said.