Dream Come True: Girls 'Step Off To Dublin' For Dance Competition

NORTH FORK, NY — After months of tireless hard work, practice, and fundraising, nine young girls saw their dream come true: They were "Stepping Off To Dublin," as they headed to Ireland for the CRG World Irish Dance Championship.

The girls will be competing Saturday and Sunday.

According to mom Cynthia Cichanowicz, the girls, all students at "My Pulse My Passion School of Irish Dance," in Mattituck, have fundraised locally, "using their pure talent of Irish step dancing" since December in order to get to the competition in Ireland, for which they've won a spot and a chance to showcase their talents on an international canvas.

The girls' instructor Kyleen Vernon traveled with them.

Some have been dancing for only five years, while others have up to 15 years of experience Irish step dancing.

"I'm so pleased to be bringing nine dancers to compete in CRG worlds. Although it's their 30th year we are truly 'green' on the world's stage. Can't wait to see what the weekend brings but I'm already so proud of them and honored to be their teacher," Vernon said.

Girls attending the competition include Katie O'Connor, 13, from East Moriches, Kate Foley, 14, from Aquebogue, Maeve Bailey, 11, from Jamesport, Naomi Cichanowicz, 14, from Peconic, Chloe Phillips, 13, from Southampton, Caitlin Friscia, 15, of Hampton Bays, Tori Alessi, 20, of Mastic, Tori Rudnick, 12, of Center Moriches, and Lila Dailey, 9, of New Suffolk.

"We are so excited to be here in Dublin Ireland representing our school," Cynthia Cichanowicz said. "We would like to thank the East End community back home and everyone who helped get the girls here throughout our fundraising during the year."

Patch photos courtesy Cynthia Cichanowicz.