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Back when I was 10, I came across a feature in my hometown newspaper about the Air Guitar World Championships, held annually every year in my birthplace of Oulu, Finland. My family had helped out at the pioneering contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my dad sorted the music. Ever since, national championships have been held all across the world, with the champions assembling in Oulu each August.

Back then, I asked my parents if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the show was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They felt it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was determined.

During childhood, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my invisible instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. the Australian rockers was the first band I stumbled upon myself. the lead guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

As I took the stage, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, similar to the live recording, and it hit me: this must be to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, performing to a large audience in Oulu’s market square, and I was hooked. I got the nickname “Little Angus” that day.

Later I paused. I was a judge one year, and started the show once more, but I didn't participate. I returned at 18, tried a few different 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 reached the finals annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I was the runner-up, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. The saying we live by is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. Though it appears humorous, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Contestants have 60 seconds to give everything – dynamic presence, flawless imitation, stage magnetism – on an imaginary instrument. The panel score you on a grading system from four to six. When it's a draw, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the last two competitors: a tune begins and you improvise.

Getting ready is key. I chose an Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I had it on repeat for multiple weeks. I stretched constantly, trying to get my lower body prepared enough to leap, my hands fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my spine set for those moves and leaps. By the time the event arrived, I could feel the song in my soul.

After everyone had performed, the scores came in, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, a competitor known as Sudo-chan – it was time for an tiebreaker. We went head-to-head to Sweet Child o’ Mine by the rock group. Once the track began, I felt at ease because it was a tune I recognized, and more than anything I was so excited to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the venue erupted.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I lost consciousness from the excitement. Then everyone started singing the song Rockin’ in the Free World and raised me up on to their arms. One of the greats – AKA Nordic Thunder – a former champion and one of my closest friends, was holding me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar world champion in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “long overdue”.

Our global network is like a close-knit group. Our motto is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a real philosophy. Participants come from many countries, and all involved is positive and uplifting. Prior to performing, each contestant shows support. Then for one minute you’re free to be uninhibited, humorous, the top performer in the world.

I’m also a drummer and string player in a group with my brother called the group title, referencing Gareth Southgate, as we’re inspired by Britpop and new wave. I’ve been bartending for a few years now, and I direct short films and song visuals. The victory hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it results in more creative work. Oulu will be a cultural hub next year, so there are great prospects.

Currently, I’m just thankful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who found a story and thought, “I'd love to try that.”