My
@way_to.the_top 2026 Reflection π
From the outside, no one truly understands the difficulty of being a 'pro' athlete. As the years go by, we see how crazy quick the youngsters progress, and the seniors can very easily feel demotivated and take the backseat. All the 'ah my _____ hurts', 'busy adulting', 'no time', etc. starts coming out. 'You so old alr, still competing?' π§ 'Focus on running your business lah'. Yup, reality of Singapore.
In fact, I fell into that same mindset. Seeing the competitor list filled with athletes who train 24/7 pretty much, at a crazy high level. Me? Struggling that fine balance of running a gym/relationship/training. Even putting aside time and self-funding a trip to Korea is a big sacrifice enough.
Missing out on last year's Skills felt like a major loss due to how I knew that it may pretty much be the last time I can get 'close' to a podium spot, knowing how every year the level gets higher. This year, making it into the finals was probably the most realistic target. I mentioned back then, my goal was to just not make it a cakewalk for the youngins. Somehow, I did scrape by, tying 5th place with 2 others to force a Top 7 finals.
Skills comp, especially in the finals, are a pure test of the mind. Make every attempt count, under pressure, max effort... I ended up only making one challenge. Obviously, my athlete self isn't satisfied, but 2 points this year was somehow enough. Was it luck? Maybe. Competition at this level will always be in the fine margins. I'll take it.
Those Singaporeans saying only '3rd' place can first actually try to even compete before making any noises π
Also
@domtomato β reminded me that being 'old' is a strength β the years of accumulated experience... Don't undersell that.
Biggest shoutout to the true winner
@gwendee who stood by, rooted, shouted, & supported me throughout the whole build-up to this comp π₯°. She doesn't receive enough credit, so this one's for her π«Άπ«Άπ«Άπ
I had such a great time sharing the same atmosphere with so many dope athletes!
Next stop: APC Singapore πΈπ¬, homeground this time π
@thenextlevel.parkour