Roger Romero and Arismel Naya opened a ballroom dance studio on US Highway 19 in Palm Harbor in January. Months later, they won the biggest title in their franchise network.

The pair were named the 2026 Fred Astaire World Professional Champions at the organization's world championships in Las Vegas, earning the top professional title awarded by Fred Astaire Dance Studios, according to Tampa Bay Beacons.

It's the newest Fred Astaire location in Tampa Bay.

Romero and Naya, both Palm Harbor residents, opened Fred Astaire Dance Studios-Palm Harbor at 34302 US Highway 19 North in January. The studio's Instagram account announced them as new owners on Jan. 16. Fred Astaire Dance Studios of Tampa Bay described the Palm Harbor location as its newest studio in the region when congratulating the pair on their championship.

Both dancers started ballroom at age 7 in Spain, where they grew up. Before settling in Palm Harbor, they competed across Europe, performed in international productions and theme parks, and joined the professional cast of the Spanish version of "Dancing with the Stars," dancing alongside celebrities on the show.

The studio offers private lessons, group classes and practice parties. ClassPass lists offerings including Latin and Ballroom Dance Class, a beginner ballroom session called Dance & Shine, and a Date Night Dance Experience Class.

The studio is open Monday and Tuesday from noon to 9 p.m., according to its Yelp listing. Residents can reach it at (941) 424-9262 or [email protected].