Strictly's Austin Healey
Friday, 29th August 2008
Austin Healey is a former rugby union ace whose all-round talent made him a regular fixture on the sport pages.
He achieved recognition at an early age playing for the England under-21s and became an integral member of the Leicester team at 19.
Austin was nicknamed "The Leicester Lip" because of his outspoken banter and "Mr Multi-Skilled" because he was so adaptable on the rugby pitch. Austin went on to win an impressive 51 caps for England but injury prevented him from winning the 2003 World Cup.
Austin says: "I miss the competitive element in my life now that I've retired from rugby and this will bring that back. I will give 100%."
Erin Boag is Austin Healey's dance partner
The IDTA Classic Champion for 2003, Erin is a strong, vivacious Kiwi, who specialises in ballroom dancing. Her professional dance partner is Anton du Beke, also appearing in Strictly Come Dancing.
She has twice made the final of the show in previous series, with partners Julian Clary and Colin Jackson, and last year danced with Willie Thorne.
Erin admits Strictly Come Dancing has changed her life, saying: "The show has opened new paths for me and given me opportunities I wouldn't have had otherwise.
"It's great to be respected as a dancer outside of the dance industry and to be recognised in the street."
Image Credit: BBC
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