Larry and Laurie were the first Texas couple to compete regularly on the UCWDC circuit. They began competing 1987, and competed for their final time at the 1997 World Championships where they won in the first ever Masters Classic division. They overcame controversy caused by their unique approach to styling and technique to become consistent winners. Their influence on country dancing was most noticeable in the Waltz and Two-Step. They were the first Masters Division couple to travel to Europe to perform and offer workshops. In 1990, Larry and Laurie founded the Texas Classic in Houston. The Texas Classic was the first UCWDC event to offer a large and structured Pro-Am competition.