Olympic gold medalist Sam Quek has revealed her disappointment at not being part of the Strictly Come Dancing live tour, 

admitting she wished she could have continued her journey on the hit BBC dance show. 

The 36-year-old former hockey star was paired with professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin during the latest series but was eliminated as the sixth contestant in the competition.

Despite her early exit, Sam has maintained a close friendship with Nikita and was in attendance when the Strictly Live Tour made a stop in Liverpool on January 29. 

She was full of praise for her dance partner but confessed she couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness at missing out on the opportunity to perform on the tour alongside him.

Mixed Emotions Watching Nikita Perform on Tour

During an exclusive interview, Sam spoke about her emotions watching Nikita dance with Miranda actress Sarah Hadland on the live tour. 

Nikita stepped in for Vito Coppola, who had to withdraw due to injury, and performed alongside Sarah for the duration of the tour.

Sam admitted with a laugh that she had mixed feelings seeing Nikita perform with another partner but was ultimately thrilled for his success. “He deserves every little bit of success. I’m gutted it wasn’t us. I know I needed to stay in the competition for maybe one or two weeks more. I’m just glad that he’s doing well.”

She also joked that Nikita might have had an easier time dancing with Sarah. “I bet he’s glad because a) she’s smaller and lighter to lift up and b) she’s a better dancer.”

Nikita’s Special Connection to Liverpool

Sam shared that Nikita had developed a strong bond with Liverpool during his time rehearsing for Strictly Come Dancing, revealing that he felt right at home in the city.

“He said, ‘I’ve been in Liverpool for the past six months and it’s been one of the best times’ because he just said everyone made him feel welcome and that’s what’s so special about Liverpool,” she explained.

The Ukrainian-born dancer was shown plenty of love from the Liverpool crowd during the live tour, where he and Sarah Hadland took home the glitterball trophy during one of the shows. Sam happily admitted she played a role in his victory. “We made sure everyone that night was voting for them.”

Nikita also acknowledged Sam’s support during the show. When he spotted her in the audience at the M&S Bank Arena, he made a heart shape with his hands in her direction, a sweet nod to their continued friendship and bond.

Sam Quek Reflects on Her Strictly Journey

Looking back on her experience on Strictly Come Dancing, Sam admitted that while she loved every moment, the process was far from easy. She described the show as one of the toughest challenges she has ever faced, both mentally and physically.

“It was hard, but in a good way. It was one of the hardest challenges I’ve ever done, both mentally and physically. Everyone kept saying, ‘You’re fit so you’re going to be fine’.”

However, she explained that her athletic background didn’t necessarily give her an advantage in ballroom and Latin dancing. “But it’s a completely different fitness. I’m explosive and used to pushing someone off you if you’re playing football or hockey. Whereas this was very elegant, very controlled, very core-based. I could still do it, but it was hard, and I loved every minute of the challenge.”

A Passion for Sport and Entertainment

Sam spoke about her Strictly experience while attending the Grand National Weights Lunch at St George’s Hall, an event that celebrates the upcoming Grand National horse race. As a sports presenter and team captain on A Question of Sport, Sam has always been passionate about British sporting traditions and is a longtime supporter of the Grand National.

“I’ve loved it ever since I can remember,” she shared, emphasizing her enthusiasm for the iconic race.

While Sam may not have made it to the Strictly live tour, she has remained a dedicated supporter of her former dance partner and the show itself. With her competitive spirit and love for a challenge, it wouldn’t be surprising to see her take on another reality competition in the future. For now, she continues to balance her broadcasting career with her love for sport, always cheering on her friends and teammates from the sidelines.

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