Two Japanese place first in international youth ballet competition

Two young Japanese women made history at the 2025 Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) competition by securing first places in separate categories. Natsuki Sugimoto, a 12-year-old junior high student from Yokkaichi, Mie Prefecture, tied for first in the junior age division, while Hana Terada, an 11-year-old elementary school student from Kawasaki, took top honors in classical dance within the precompetitive age division. Both girls aim to become world-class dancers and plan to pursue their careers abroad through YAGP scholarships. Meanwhile, Leon Sai, a 14-year-old American of Japanese heritage, placed second among Japanese boys, showcasing strong talent from Japan's youth.