99-Year-Old Competes in World Tango Championships

They say it takes two to tango. In this case, it takes 744. 

They say it takes two to tango. In this case, it takes 744. 

That is the number of couples who strutted their stuff at the World Tango Championship in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Couples from 36 nations entered the dance, representing places including Italy, Chile, Colombia and Hungary.

The dance is known for its level of difficulty and sultry nature.

Competitors faced off in two categories: floor and stage. 

Among those taking on the challenge — a 99-year-old Irishman named James McManus. "Tango brings me a lot of happiness," McManus told The Bankok Post. "Dancing is very important socially."

The World War II veteran says he took up tango in 2002 when he was in his 80s.

The tournament’s semi-final took place on Friday. The final round will happen on Aug. 21 and 22.

The tournament is also part of Argentina's International Tango Festival, which is the largest tango event on earth.

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