Houston dancer wins prestigious international competition

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A young ballerina has made history as the only Houston dancer to win at a prestigious international ballet competition.

Madison Young, 17, was handpicked by her instructors to compete in the Prix de Lausanne competition in Switzerland. The international competition was held earlier this year.

"It's like a giant job opportunity," said Madison Young. "You go there and all these partner schools and companies and their representatives come, they actually watch classes throughout the week. They're trying to recruit people. And so, no matter what, you are going to come out of this with something."

Young was one of 400 ballerina dancers to audition, and one of only about 40 dancers to advance to the invite only event in Switzerland. Her instructor Sabrina Lenzi traveled with her along the way.

"She is a fortunate combination of both, physical and artistic ability," said Lenzi.

Young performed several solo dances including a routine from the Sleeping Beauty. In the end, Young was honored with a second place win in the world competition. She was only American to win this year.

"I don't think it really hit me. I don't think it still has hit me," said Young. "I was just really happy. That's all I can explain."

Since the competition, the Houston Ballet has signed Young to an apprenticeship.