BBC Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, famed as the dynamic competitor Nitro, has shared a touching tribute to Birmingham, describing the city as holding a special place in his heart.
From Track Spikes to Dancing Shoes
The athlete and entertainer is set to swap the Gladiators arena for the dance floor, performing in Birmingham in just a few weeks with his Strictly Come Dancing partner, Karen Hauer. The opening show of the nationwide Strictly Come Dancing Live tour kicks off at the city's Utilita Arena on January 23, running until January 25.
This heartfelt admission comes as the rebooted Gladiators show returns to BBC One and iPlayer tonight, January 17 at 5.45pm, featuring Nitro in his formidable on-screen role.
A City of Champions
Speaking exclusively to BirminghamLive, Aikines-Aryeetey explained the profound impact the city has had on his sporting career. "Birmingham's been very close to my heart in regards to my upbringing," he said, reflecting on his journey as a champion sprinter.
He has vivid memories of competing and winning medals at the Utilita Arena on the indoor track. "I've actually competed in the Utilita arena quite a bit, and on the track, 60 metres, running indoors and winning medals, I remember," he recalled. His achievements there spanned from national championships as a youth to senior national titles and the Birmingham Grand Prix.
A New Challenge on Familiar Ground
Returning to the same venue in a completely different capacity is a significant moment for the star. "So I do love that space. To kind of visit that arena in a different capacity means a lot," he admitted. "So I won't be bringing my track spikes, I'll be bringing my dancing shoes, so that's gonna feel really weird."
He also contrasted his past and present performances, noting that while competing as an Olympian and Gladiator involved reactive performances for himself, the Strictly tour is about actively entertaining a live audience. "We've actually got to produce something that's gonna get people moving and vibing," he said.
Before he takes to the stage in Birmingham, Aikines-Aryeetey has a busy schedule, featuring in the new series of Gladiators and intensive rehearsals for the Strictly live shows. Tickets for the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour are available via StrictlyComeDancingLive.com.
