The United States Inter-Regional Championships (USIR) is the premier Highland dancing competition in the United States, bringing together the most skilled dancers from across the six geographic regions of the Federation of United States Teachers and Adjudicators (FUSTA).
Held annually and rotating between regions, the USIR is more than just a competition—it’s a showcase of dedication, artistry, and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a dancer aiming to qualify or a spectator looking to witness top-tier performances, understanding how the USIR works is essential.
What is the USIR?
The United States Inter-Regional Championships is the national championship for Highland dancing in the United States, sanctioned by the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing (SOBHD).
- Purpose: To determine the top dancers from across the U.S. each year.
- Participants: Premier category dancers who have earned the right to represent their region.
- Rotation: Hosted by a different region each year to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all.
The Six FUSTA Regions
Highland dancing in the U.S. is organized into six geographic regions:
- East
- Midwest
- Northwest
- Southeast
- Southwest
- West
Each region hosts its own Closed Championship, where dancers compete for the chance to qualify for the United States Inter-Regional Championships .
How to Qualify for the USIR
Step 1: Be a Premier Dancer
Only dancers in the Premier category are eligible to compete in qualifying events.
Step 2: Compete in Your Regional Championship
- Each region holds its Closed Championship prior to the United States Inter-Regional Championships .
- Dancers must meet residency or birthplace requirements to enter.
Step 3: Earn a Top Placement
- The number of qualifying spots per region depends on the number of Premier dancers in that region.
- Top finishers earn the right to represent their region at the USIR.
USIR Qualification Process
| Step | Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Premier Category Status | Must be Premier to enter any qualifying event |
| Step 2 | Regional Championship | Compete in your home region’s Closed Championship |
| Step 3 | Top Placement | Place high enough to earn one of your region’s qualifying spots |
What Happens at the USIR?
Set Steps
Dancers must perform the annual set steps determined by the SOBHD Technical Committee.
Judging
- Three independent judges score each competitor.
- Scores are combined for a fair result.
Dances Performed
While the set can change annually, common Championship dances include:
- Highland Fling
- Sword Dance
- Seann Triubhas
- Strathspey & Reel
The Rotation System
One of the defining features of the United States Inter-Regional Championships is its rotating location. The event moves between the six FUSTA regions on a set cycle, giving each region a chance to host:
| Year | Region |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Midwest |
| 2026 | Northwest |
| 2027 | Southeast |
| 2028 | Southwest |
| 2029 | West |
| 2030 | East |
(Example cycle—subject to change)
Why the USIR Matters
National Prestige
Winning a USIR title is the highest competitive achievement for U.S. Highland dancers.
International Opportunities
Top USIR performers may go on to compete in events like the Scottish Championships or the World Championships.
Cultural Celebration
The event celebrates Scottish heritage, featuring music, kilts, and community gatherings alongside the competition.
Preparing for the USIR
Technical Readiness
- Perfect your set steps early in the year.
- Work on stamina to maintain performance quality across multiple dances.
Mental Preparation
- Simulate competition pressure in practice sessions.
- Learn to recover quickly from mistakes to maintain composure.
Costume & Presentation
- Ensure your Highland outfit meets official dress regulations.
- Check for proper fit, clean lines, and polished shoes.
Spectator Experience at the USIR
Even if you’re not competing, the USIR is an incredible event to watch. Audiences enjoy:
- Elite-level dancing from across the nation.
- Live bagpipe music accompanying each performance.
- Vendor booths offering dance supplies, kilts, and Scottish goods.
Common Myths About the USIR
Myth 1: You can just sign up to compete.
- Truth: You must qualify through your regional championship.
Myth 2: The same dancers always win.
- Truth: New talent often emerges each year, making results unpredictable.
Myth 3: The USIR is only for top-tier professionals.
- Truth: While it’s highly competitive, it’s open to all qualified Premier dancers.
The United States Inter-Regional Championships is the pinnacle of Highland dancing competition in the U.S., offering dancers the chance to represent their region, compete against the nation’s best, and celebrate Scottish culture.
With a rotating location, rigorous qualification process, and a tradition of excellence, the USIR continues to inspire dancers year after year.
Whether you’re aiming to qualify or simply enjoy the artistry, understanding the structure and significance of the USIR will deepen your appreciation of this extraordinary event.
FAQs
Can a dancer compete in a regional championship outside their home region?
No. Dancers must compete in their designated regional championship based on residency or birthplace.
Is the USIR open to international competitors?
No. Only U.S. dancers who qualify through their regional championship may enter.
Are the set steps the same for all Championships in a given year?
Yes. The SOBHD sets the annual steps, which apply to all recognized Championships worldwide.