Richard and Bonnie formed a dance partnership in 1978. Their first competition at the United States Ballroom Championships resulted in a Silver Medallion in the Hustle divisions and Finalists in the Professional American Style divisions.

They competed in the American style until 1981 eventually retiring undefeated as the New England American Style Champions before entering into International style dancing.

In, 1983 they became the Rising Star Latin and Modern Champions at the United States Ballroom Championships.