Abe Jarman, 17, is part of the dance group ‘Toyboxx’, which is made up of 14 members from across the local area and is due to fly to America to take part in the prestigious competition in just over three months. Abe and his ‘crew’ will take part in the competition, to be held at Loews Lake Resort, with around 140 groups from around the world competing for the title. Abe and Toyboxx earned the right to perform at the championships after coming second in the UK Hip Hop Championships, held at the Watford Coliseum recently. The group formed only six months ago when founding members Steve ‘Tav’ Tavender, Luke Lentes, Lee Putman and Anton Lawrence got together, with the number of members quickly expanding as the group’s name spread. There are now 14 members, including Abe, ranging from as young as 17 up to 28. The group train twice a week, on Tuesday nights at Parmiter’s School and on Saturday’s at Watford Grammar School for Boys. Starting with just nine members, the group entered their first competition in Camber Sands, putting a three minute rendition together in the hope of winning £1,000. Tav told My Garston News: “We went down there really positive and ended up winning despite it being our first performance together in front of anyone.” Dancing to Hip Hop, Old School Hip Hop, House and RnB, each member has its own style and contributes in some way. Abe, who is at college studying performing arts, joined the group soon after it formed following the attendance of an open class held by Toyboxx member Luke Lentes. He told My Garston News: “I love dancing and people used to say I was good at it, but I never took it seriously. I wasn’t the best when I started but I was quick on the pick up and have gradually got a lot better. It hasn’t really sunk in that we’re going to Vegas and it will be my first time visiting America, I can’t wait.” As part of the trip, the group now need to raise £10,000 to cover the costs of flights and accommodation to ensure they take their place in the finals, which kick-off on July 30th. They are holding workshops which will see attendees taught by some of the top hip hop dancers/choreographers in the world and are looking at holding a number of local events in the coming months to raise more money. If you can help Toyboxx in anyway with sponsorship or donations, visit their Facebook page or call Corina Best on 07832 205787