On August 22, I’ll be back on stage in Santa Cruz, California, competing in the Men’s Physique Open at the IFBB Pro League Santa Cruz Pro.
I recently shared the news on Instagram with a phrase that has been on my mind:
Per aspera ad astra.
Through hardships to the stars.
Earlier this year, I competed at the Arnold Classic UK. Since then, it’s been back to work — training, improving, and preparing for the next opportunity to show what we’ve built.
That opportunity is now Santa Cruz.
The Santa Cruz Pro takes place alongside the NPC Santa Cruz Championships at the Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium. Last year, the Men’s Physique Open brought together 29 professional competitors, so I know I’ll be sharing the stage with some very good athletes.
That’s exactly where I want to be.
One thing I’ve learned from competing is that every time you step on stage, you learn something. You see what worked, what needs improvement, and what you can bring back better the next time.
Santa Cruz itself is located on California’s Central Coast, between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s known for its beaches, surfing culture, and the redwood forests surrounding the area.
With two weeks to go, the work has already been happening for months. Now it’s about staying consistent, paying attention to the details, and arriving ready to show my best.
I don’t know what August 22 will bring. That uncertainty is part of what makes competition exciting.
Eventually, the preparation ends, your name is called, and you walk onto the stage.
Then it’s time to show the work.
See you in Santa Cruz.