PELHAM – Pelham High School varsity cheer captain Haleigh Moore is set to travel to London the day after Christmas to perform in the world-famous London New Year’s Day Parade on Jan. 1, 2019.

Moore, a PHS senior, is one of more than 800 high school cheerleaders from across the United States who will be representing Varsity Spirit in the parade. She earned the honor in June at a Universal Cheerleaders Association camp held at the University of Alabama.

PHS cheerleaders attended the rigorous four-day camp to sharpen their skills. Moore said the camp was nonstop with practices starting at 8 a.m. and ending at 9 p.m. or later.

“It was really intense,” she said. “We learned stunts, two routines, cheers and chants.”

On the third day of the camp, the cheerleaders had an opportunity to try out to become an All-American. Those trying out performed the rally routine, a cheer and a jump. A score of at least 12 out of 15 was required to qualify for All-American. Only the top 12 percent of athletes who attend camp earn the chance to perform in the parade.

“I actually didn’t hear when my name was called so I was really confused when they came up to me and gave me my medal,” Moore said. “I was so excited because I tried out last year, I didn’t make it, but this year I tried my best and it paid off.”

Moore and her mother Elaine Carroll will fly out from the Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Dec. 26 and will be in London until Jan. 2, 2019.

“I’m just looking forward to the experience and making new friends,” said Moore who has never traveled internationally. “I’m getting more and more excited the closer the date gets.”

Carroll said she’s looking forward to traveling with her daughter and getting to spend time with her before she goes off to college. Moore plans to attend Troy University and hopes to make the university’s cheerleading team.

“What I’m most looking forward to is getting to experience this with her and just seeing her do something that she loves to do,” Carroll said. “We’re excited to get to represent the city of Pelham in London.”

The parade route includes a VIP section for parents so they can have a good view of their child in the parade.

“The All-American program is celebrating its 31^st year and our talented cheerleaders, dancers and drum majors really enjoy the opportunity to show their skills to a very enthusiastic international audience,” said Mike Fultz, international event coordinator for Varsity Spirit.

For more information, visit london.varsity.com.