World Champion title for Clann McCaul dancer

A Magheracloone dance instructor is savouring the success of her young dancers who each made it through to the finals, with one being crowned world champion.

Blathnaid McCaul brought a group of young six dancers from Scoil Rince Clann McCaul to the recent World Irish Dance Championships 2026 in Schaumburg, Chicago. In a remarkable achievement, all six dancers, who hail from Tyrone and Armagh, qualified for the final recall round, earning each of them a World Championship medal — a 100% recall rate for the school.

Leading the celebrations was Blaithín Mohan, who was crowned World Champion in the Under‑18 Ladies competition. Competing at the highest level against more than 200 dancers, Blaithín delivered a world‑class performance to deservedly claim the top title. The success marked a particularly special moment for the dancer and her teachers, Maria her mother and her aunts Sorcha (a six-time World Champion) and Blathnaid, founder of Guna Ri, an Irish dance costume manufacturers in Dublin.

Blaithín previously won a world title seven years ago and has consistently placed second or third over the past six years. After such a long wait at the very top level, this year’s triumph was described as “even sweeter” by those closest to her.

Another standout performance came from Beibhinn Muldoon, who achieved an impressive fifth place in the Under‑12 category, taking home a coveted World Globe — a dream prize for young dancers worldwide.

The success continued across the age groups, with Niamh Cullen finishing 10th in the world in the Under‑17 Ladies, securing a place in the global top ten. Clara Cavanagh placed 33rd in Under‑13, Eimear Cullen finished 38th in Under‑15, and Niamh Courtney claimed 50th place in Under‑13, all earning well‑deserved world medals.

Competitions took place over several days in Schaumburg, Chicago, with dancers required to progress through multiple rounds before the final recall on the last day.

With approximately 200 competitors in each age group, reaching the final 50 is a significant achievement in itself — and having all six Clann McCaul dancers return for finals highlighted the strength and consistency of the school.

Clann McCaul’s teachers who give lessons in Carrick and Armagh, paid tribute to the dedication of their dancers, parents and extended dance families.

Special thanks were also extended to supporters in Boston and Cincinnati, who helped cheer the dancers along throughout the week.

Reflecting on the trip, Blathnaid McCaul described it as “an unforgettable experience,” praising Chicago for the memories made and the incredible atmosphere of the World Championships.

With world titles, globes and medals returning home, the 2026 Championships will long be remembered as one of Clann McCaul’s most successful years on the international stage.