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Back when I was 10, I came across a story in my community gazette about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My parents had participated at the very first contest since 1996 – mom gave out flyers, my father organized the music. Since then, country-level contests have been organized all across the world, with the titleholders gathering in Oulu each August.

At the time, I requested permission if I could enter. They weren't sure at first; the competition was in a bar, and there would be many grown-ups. They believed it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

In my youth, I was always performing air guitar, acting out to the iconic rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. My family were lovers of music – dad loved The Boss and U2. the Australian rockers was the original act I stumbled upon myself. the guitarist, the guitar hero, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s that classic track. The spectators started shouting “Angus”, just like the live recording, and it hit me: so this is to be a music icon. I made it to the finals, 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 adjudicator one year, and started the show once more, but I didn’t compete. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but people kept calling me “Little Angus” so I accepted it fully and make “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to take the title this year.

The worldwide group is like a support system. Our guiding principle is ‘Make air, not war’. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief.

The competition itself is high-energy yet fun. Competitors have 60 seconds to put their all – explosive energy, flawless imitation, performance charm – on an nonexistent axe. Judges rate you on a scale from 4.0 to 6.0. If scores are equal, there’s an “air-off” between the final two contestants: a song plays and you create on the spot.

Training is crucial. I chose an a metal group song for my routine. I listened to it on a loop for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs loose enough to leap, my digits fast enough to mimic solos and my upper body prepared for those gestures and hops. By the time the big day arrived, I could feel the song in my bones.

When the show concluded, the scores came in, and I had drawn with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an air-off. We went head-to-head to that classic rock anthem by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt at ease because it was familiar to me, and above all I was so excited to play again. Once the results were read I’d triumphed, the area went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I zoned out from the excitement. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. Justin Howard – also known as Nordic Thunder – a past winner and one of my closest friends, was hugging me. I wept. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar international titleholder in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, the former champion, was also present. He offered me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Create music, not conflict”. It sounds silly, but it’s a genuine belief. Competitors come from all over the world, and each person is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant comes and hugs you. Then for one minute you’re able to be free, playful, the ultimate music icon in the world.

I’m also a drummer and guitarist in a musical act with my sibling called the Southgates, referencing the sports figure, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a short time, and I produce short films and music videos. The victory hasn’t altered my routine drastically but I’ve been doing a lot of press, and I hope it leads to more innovative opportunities. The city will be a European capital of culture soon, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just grateful: for the community, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who found a story and thought, “That's for me.”