Strictly's Sam Quek: "I Took It" After Exit
Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Sam Quek has opened up about her experience on the show, revealing her feelings after her exit and what she took away from the experience.
The Olympic hockey champion, who was partnered with Aljaž Škorjanec in 2016, made it all the way to the semi-finals before being eliminated. While she was understandably disappointed at the time, Quek now reflects on her journey with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude.
"It's a Rollercoaster"
Speaking about her time on Strictly, Quek admitted it was a whirlwind experience. "It's a rollercoaster," she said. "You're learning a new skill, you're performing in front of millions of people, and you're dealing with the pressure of the competition." She also acknowledged the physical and mental demands of the show, noting the intensive training and the constant scrutiny from the judges and the public.
Taking It All In
Despite the challenges, Quek embraced the experience. "I took it all in," she shared. "I wanted to learn as much as I could, and I wanted to enjoy every minute of it." Her determination to learn and her willingness to push herself were evident in her performances, which often showcased a surprising level of skill and confidence for a complete beginner.
More Than Just Dancing
Quek also emphasized the importance of the friendships she made on the show. "The camaraderie among the contestants was amazing," she said. "We were all going through the same thing, so we supported each other and had a lot of fun." These bonds, forged through shared challenges and triumphs, have continued beyond the show, demonstrating the lasting impact of the Strictly experience.
A Lasting Legacy
Looking back, Quek sees her time on Strictly as a transformative experience. "It taught me so much about myself, about resilience, about pushing my boundaries," she shared. "It also gave me a platform to raise awareness for causes I care about." Her participation on the show undoubtedly helped raise her profile, allowing her to use her newfound platform to advocate for important issues.
Continuing to Shine
Even though her time on Strictly ended, Quek's journey continues. She remains a successful entrepreneur and a passionate advocate for mental health awareness. Her experience on the show, with its highs and lows, has undoubtedly shaped her into the strong and inspiring individual she is today.
Quek's story is a testament to the transformative power of challenging oneself and stepping outside of one's comfort zone. Her journey on Strictly was more than just about dancing; it was about growth, connection, and the pursuit of excellence. And for that, she's certainly "taken it" all in.