Strabane woman makes special belt for Michael Flatley

A COMMEMORATIVE golden belt, crafted to mark the 50th anniversary of Michael Flatley becoming the first American to win the Irish Dancing World Championships, has been made by a Strabane dressmaker.

Flatley, widely-regarded as the biggest name in Irish dancing, was in Belfast over the weekend to celebrate the milestone at the same competition where he first claimed the title half a century ago.

To honour his illustrious career and historic win, the golden belt was presented to him during the event – specially designed by Chantelle Deazley, owner of Chantelle’s Dress Design in Strabane.

Chantelle, who also creates sashes for the championship winners, was thrilled to be involved.

“Everyone knows Michael Flatley; he is a real star, and to make a belt that celebrated his career was a privilege,” she said.

She explained how the opportunity came about: “I got the opportunity to make the belt as I make the championship sashes for all the world champions. So the Irish Dancing Commission [asked] if I would make something to celebrate the anniversary of Michael becoming the first American winner of the competition.”

Flatley’s victory at the Irish Dancing World Championships propelled him into the spotlight.

His later performances in ‘Riverdance’ catapulted him to global fame, making him a household name and an ambassador for Irish culture on the world stage.

“I was able to stand at the side of the stage when the belt was presented to him,” Chantelle said.

“I also got to meet him and get pictured with him holding the belt.

“He was very nice and thanked me for making it.”