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At the age of 10, I came across a story in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the very first contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my dad managed the music. From that point, national championships have been held all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could compete. At first they were hesitant; the show was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an overwhelming atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the biggest rock tunes with my imaginary instrument. My family were enthusiasts – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the first band I stumbled upon myself. Angus Young, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

When I stepped on stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it struck me: this must be to be a guitar hero. I reached the championship, playing to hundreds of people in the town square, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show on another occasion, but I stayed out of the contest. I returned at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I came second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is ‘Create music, not conflict’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The contest is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have one minute to give everything – explosive energy, perfect mime, stage magnetism – on an nonexistent axe. Adjudicators score you on a grading system from a specific numeric range. If scores are equal, there’s an “showdown” between the remaining participants: a tune begins and you improvise.

Training is crucial. I chose an a metal group song for my performance. I had it on repeat for a long time. I stretched constantly, trying to get my limbs prepared enough to jump, my hands nimble enough to copy riffs and my spine prepared for those moves and leaps. When competition day came, I could internalize the track in my bones.

When the show concluded, the points were announced, and I had tied with the winner from Japan, the Japanese titleholder – it was time for an final showdown. We faced off to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and more than anything I was so eager to perform one more time. Once the results were read I’d won, the venue exploded.

The moment is hazy. I think I lost consciousness from shock. Then the crowd started singing the song Rockin’ in the Free World and lifted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – also known as his performer title – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was embracing me. I wept. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The prior titleholder, the former champion, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the most heartfelt squeeze and said it was “finally happening”.

This worldwide group is like a family. The phrase we live by is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. People come from globally, and each person is positive and uplifting. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re able to be yourself, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

I’m also a drummer and string player in a musical act with my family member called the group title, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re fans of British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce independent videos and performance clips. Winning hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it results in more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are exciting things ahead.

At present, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “I want to do that.”