Dancing with the Stars got into full swing of things this week with the show’s premiere on Monday and the shocking ouster of its first casualty, David Hasselhoff, on Tuesday.

One of the more interesting teams still vying for the Mirror Ball trophy are Mark Ballas and his partner, Bristol Palin, together known as Team Ballin’.

Bristol first entered the national spotlight when her mother, former Governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin was selected to be John McCain’s running mate in the 2008 Presidential election. Bristol traveled the country alongside her mother, father and siblings on the campaign trail. 

After giving birth to her son Tripp, and becoming a single teen mother in 2008, Palin became a spokesperson for the prevention of teen pregnancy and other teen issues. As an advocate for the protection of life, Palin wanted to share her story with other teens who may one day face a similar situation. Palin also acts as Teen Ambassador for The Candie’s Foundation, to prevent teen and unplanned pregnancy.

Mark is one of the nicest, most down to earth people I have ever met. He comes from a family of international dance stars, so, it’s no surprise that Mark has two shiny Mirror Ball trophies at home. He even beat out his dad, Corky, and tied with childhood friend Derek Hough, for the wins: He won the DWTS title in Season 6 with partner Kristi Yamaguchi, and again in Season 8 with Shawn Johnson.

When he’s not dancing, Mark focuses on his other passion, which is music. He rocks out with his band on tour and in the studio, where he’s working to complete his upcoming CD, set for release later this fall. You can catch an acoustic show of his at the Viper Room in Hollywood, CA this Friday at 7:45pm. Per Mark, “The first 100 get in free. :)”

Mark and Bristol are currently in Alaska – and here are some pictures Mark Tweeted today and others from earlier in the week. Looks like Mark and Bristol are having a ball – make sure you tune in and vote for this duo!