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When I was just 10, I discovered a story in my community gazette about the Global Air Guitar Contest, which take place every year in my hometown of Oulu, Finland. My family had participated at the inaugural contest since 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my father organized the music. Ever since, country-level contests have been staged globally, with the titleholders converging in Oulu every summer.

Back then, I requested permission if I could compete. They weren't sure at first; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They felt it might be an daunting atmosphere, but I was set on it.

During childhood, I was always miming air guitar, miming along to the biggest rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – dad loved Bruce Springsteen and U2. the Australian rockers was the first band I discovered on my own. the guitarist, the frontman guitarist, was my idol.

As I took the stage, I did my routine to the band's Whole Lotta Rosie. The spectators started yelling “Angus”, just like the concert version, and it dawned on me: this is what it feels like to be a guitar hero. I advanced to the last round, performing to a large audience in the public plaza, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

Then I took a break. I was a referee one year, and started the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but fans continued using “Little Angus” so I decided to own it and choose “The Angus” as my artist name. I’ve qualified for the last round annually from 2022 onward, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was resolved to win this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our motto is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a true ethos.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have one minute to give everything – high-powered performance, flawless imitation, rock star charisma – on an nonexistent axe. Judges evaluate you on a scale from a specific numeric range. In the case of a tie, there’s an “tiebreaker” between the remaining participants: a track is selected and you create on the spot.

Getting ready is key. I selected an a metal group song for my performance. I played it repeatedly for weeks. I did regular stretches, trying to get my legs prepared enough to bound, my fingers fast enough to copy riffs and my upper body ready for those bends and jumps. Once the event dawned, I could feel the song in my being.

Once all acts were done, the points were announced, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, Yuta “Sudo-chan” Sudo – it was moment for an tiebreaker. We faced off to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. Once the track began, I felt relieved because it was familiar to me, and primarily I was so eager to have another go. Once the results were read I’d emerged victorious, the area exploded.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then everyone started performing Neil Young’s that well-known track and hoisted me on to their arms. A former champion – also known as Nordic Thunder – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was holding me. I cried. I was Finland’s first air guitar global winner in 25 years. The earlier winner from Finland, the former champion, was there, too. He bestowed upon me the warmest embrace and said it was “finally happening”.

The air guitar community is like a family. Our guiding saying is “Focus on fun, not fighting”. Though it appears comical, but it’s a true way of life. Participants come from many countries, and everyone is supportive and encouraging. As you prepare to compete, each contestant shows support. Then for a brief period you’re free to be uninhibited, humorous, the top performer in the world.

Additionally, I am a beat keeper and string player in a musical act with my family member called the Southgates, inspired by the football manager, as we’re influenced by UK rock and post-punk. I’ve been serving drinks for a few years now, and I produce short films and song visuals. Winning hasn’t altered my routine too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I wish it leads to more innovative opportunities. My hometown will be a designated cultural center the coming year, so there are exciting things ahead.

At present, I’m just grateful: for the group, for the ability to compete, and for that little kid who picked up a newspaper and thought, “That's for me.”