CTST FAQs
You can find answers to frequently asked questions here!
What should I do if I want to host a CTST competition?
- Navigate to the Documents & Forms page on the CTST website and read the Contest Procedures document (Sections I-III).
- Fill out an Event Application (also found on the Document & Forms page) and follow the directions on that form.
- Email info@countrytwosteptour.com with any questions. We are here to help and want you to be successful?
Does an event have to be UCWDC sanctioned to host a CTST competition?
No! Any “event” can apply to host a CTST competition. We welcome bars, events featuring any styles of dance, county fairs, dance studios, etc. to apply to host a CTST competition.
How were CTST points assigned at Forever Country in 2024?
At Forever Country in 2024 CTST points were assigned as follows:
- FCDF Advanced Division earns CTST Intermediate points
- FCDF Intermediate Division earns CTST Novice points
- FCDF Beginner Division is non-pointed
Forever Country Dance Fest allocated points this way because they had custom made buckles and pendants with division rankings, but want to stay consistent with CTST rules to maintain the integrity of the Country Two Step Tour ranking process.
Do you have any recommended CTST judging guidelines?
While there can be some variation in what individual judges prioritize, the guidelines below serve as a guide for what most trained two step judges base scores on.
NEWCOMER
TIMING
- Understanding of the “Quick Quick Slow Slow” rhythm
TECHNIQUE
- Clean and clear QQSS steps
- Proper frame in basic dance positions
TEAMWORK
- Lead and follow basic patterns clearly and accurately from closed, sweetheart, cuddle, and skaters
SHOWMANSHIP
- Smile and have fun!
NOVICE
Everything from Newcomer AND…
TIMING
- Syncopations encouraged but not required (QQS QQS, QQQQSS, SSSS, etc.)
- Holding slows (“slow-and, slow-and”)
TECHNIQUE
- Compressive connection in closed and stretch connection in away movements
- Lead clear and timely preps
TEAMWORK
- Lead skill-level-appropriate moves that are successful for the partnership
- Logical flow of moves and patterns (follow on the correct foot, etc.)
SHOWMANSHIP
- Begin to utilize styling (e.g. arm styling, leg lines, etc.)
INTERMEDIATE
Everything from Novice AND…
TIMING
- Syncopations expected (QQS QQS, QQQQSS, SSSS, etc.)
- Weight transfer (body flight) over held slows
TECHNIQUE
- Dynamic compressive and stretch connection evident across movements
- Beginning to show chaine and/or pivot turn technique
TEAMWORK
- Follow may influence the dance; leader should be responsive to follow
- Seamlessly link patterns and moves together without unnecessary basics
SHOWMANSHIP
- Engage the audience with crowd-facing movements
- Acknowledge some phrase changes
ADVANCED
Everything from Intermediate AND…
TIMING
- Syncopations must be used frequently and to create impact
- Clear evidence of pulse throughout the dance
- Quicker (accelerated) quicks and slower (held) slows
TECHNIQUE
- Increased dynamic compressive and stretch connection evident across movements with improved turn speed and more accurate timing
- Dynamic leg actions – bent to straight with each weight transfer
- Consistent and proper application of chaine and/or pivot turn technique
TEAMWORK
- Follow should influence the dance; leader should create opportunities and be responsive to follow
- Variety and creativity in movements
SHOWMANSHIP
- Acknowledge all phrase changes and musical accents
- Musical movement choices
- Highlight your partner’s specific skill set
DISQUALIFICATIONS:
LINE OF DANCE
- Country Two Step is a progressive dance – patterns that are stationary or travel back line of dance are allowed but must NOT impede the progress of other couples.
- It IS the responsibility of other dancers to avoid already-stopped partnerships
LIFTS
- A lift occurs when both feet leave the ground and the other partner supports their weight AND the hips of the lifted partner are above the hips of the lifting partner.
- Lifts are not allowed in ANY CTST competition.
Contact Us
