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When I was just 10, I read about a story in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the very first contest starting from 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, dad organized the music. Ever since, national championships have been organized globally, with the titleholders assembling in Oulu annually.

Initially, I requested permission if I could participate. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be a lot of adults. They thought it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was determined.

As a kid, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My parents were lovers of music – my father loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the band AC/DC was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the lead guitarist, was my hero.

As I took the stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started chanting “Angus”, similar to the album track, and it struck me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I made it to the finals, performing to crowds in the public plaza, and I was hooked. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a judge one year, and started the show another time, but I didn’t compete. I returned at 18, experimented with various stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and adopt “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final every year since 2022, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was set to claim victory this year.

Our global network is like a family. The saying we live by is ‘Make air, not war’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a genuine belief.

The contest is high-energy yet fun. Competitors have 60 seconds to deliver maximum effort – dynamic presence, precise mimicry, rock star charisma – on an invisible guitar. Judges score you on a scale from a specific numeric range. In the case of a tie, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to leap, my fingers fast enough to mimic solos and my spine prepared for those bends and jumps. When the event dawned, I could internalize the track in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the results were tallied, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the iconic band. As the music started, I felt at ease because it was one that I knew, and above all I was so eager to perform one more time. As they declared I’d emerged victorious, the area erupted.

My memory is blurry. I think I zoned out from surprise. Then everyone started singing Neil Young’s that well-known track and lifted me on to their backs. One of the greats – also known as his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my best pals, was embracing me. I shed tears. I was the first Finnish air guitar international titleholder in two and a half decades. The earlier winner from Finland, the earlier victor, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

This worldwide group is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from globally, and all involved is helpful and motivating. Before you go on stage, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for 60 seconds you’re allowed to be yourself, silly, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a drummer and string player in a band with my brother called the band name, named after the sports figure, as we’re inspired by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been working in bars for a short time, and I create independent videos and music videos. Winning hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I hope it results in more creative work. My hometown will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the community, for the opportunity to play, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I want to do that.”