The Start Line

When we’re kids, most of us want to be professional athletes. We imagine grand finals, packed stadiums, medals, and moments everyone agrees are important. Somewhere along the way, most of us realise that path isn’t ours - but the desire to commit, to train, and to build toward something meaningful never really leaves.

For some, that dream becomes a local team chasing finals. For others, it’s a race, an event, a personal challenge, or a moment they’ve quietly set for themselves. The goals change, but the process doesn’t. Early mornings. Sacrifices. Discipline when no one is watching. Effort that often goes unrecognised.

One of the biggest things I’ve learned in 2025 is the importance of the start line - and what it represents.

Because the start line isn’t just the beginning of something. It’s the end of preparation. It’s proof that you showed up, stayed consistent, and followed through. Whether it’s running onto a field for a grand final, standing on a start line, or stepping into the moment you worked months for - that moment matters.

For me, my current start line is HYROX Auckland. 16 weeks of work. Missed plans. Quiet sacrifices. I won’t post an elite time or qualify for anything bigger - but that’s okay! On the day, I’ll still feel like a professional athlete. Not because of the outcome, but because I earned the right to be there.

And the best part? That start line never stays the same.

Once it passes, there’s another one ahead - another goal, another challenge, another chance to commit fully and feel that same sense of purpose again. That’s the beauty of it. We’re always building toward something new.

Surround yourself with people who understand that your moment matters - even if it doesn’t come with a medal or spotlight. Because if you prepared for it, committed to it, and showed up, you earned that feeling.