TV maths ace and Strictly Come Dancing contestant Rachel Riley can’t figure out the waltz
FOR Countdown’s mathematical genius Rachel Riley, mastering ballroom dancing should be as easy as one, two, three.
But despite being one of the favourites to win the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, which starts tonight, Rachel, 27, has been struggling to learn the waltz, according to her mother Celia.
“Rachel and I both thought the waltz would be easiest but she has struggled a little bit with learning the steps because it’s at a very high level,” she said.
“She’s got all the steps in her head now and just needs to perfect the routine. It’s very hard work because she’s balancing her work schedule around Strictly but she’s absolutely loving every minute of it.
“Her dad’s quite nimble on the football pitch but not so much on the dance floor, so let’s hope she takes after me rather than him.”
Oxford maths graduate Rachel, of Rochford, Essex, and her professional partner Pasha Kovalev were 12/1 last night with bookmakers Ladbrokes to lift the Strictly trophy.
Pasha, twice runner-up, is hoping to go one better this year. “He’s a great teacher,” said Celia. “Rachel’s got the bug now and wants to do herself proud.”