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The Road to Atlanta - Facing the Rest of the Best!


I hesitated before I pushed the registration button. There were only a few days left to sign up for the WATL Amateur Axe Throwing Championships and for some reason I was holding back. Maybe it was the usual things that people have to deal with on a day to day basis. We all have jobs to work and bills to pay. We all have loved ones that deserve our attention and projects that require our ambition. As amateurs, this is a hobby for all of us. The logistics and emotions of everyday life can easily sideswipe our plans. 

Ambivalence, maybe that was the feeling? I have spent my life chasing dreams usually in the form of athletic excellence. Many times I have fallen short but once in a while I would exceed my expectations. That feeling of accomplishment is meaningful even if most people aren't even aware of the sport. That potent combination of discipline, determination and conscientious training helps define who we are as athletes and individuals.

"I throw axes!" Usually you see the person's face light up as you tell them about your hobby. That's a great feeling too. You have a unique skill shared by a small but dedicated community where most everyone knows each other. In Axe throwing we cheer each other on. We hope for people to do their best even if we might lose a match in the process. This is one of those sports where the fun comes first. Maybe that's what I needed to remember?

Being there is half the game. That's what sports psychologists will tell you. If you don't show up, you can't win or even experience anything. There might be more in store than just winning. Maybe showing up results in friendships you didn't anticipate? Maybe it results in a job opportunity or meeting the love of your life? In truth those things often come at unexpected times and in unexpected places. Surprise, that's also a great feeling.

I suppose I could ramble on all day about what this means to me. I have never competed in a National event. I have never had a real chance of going Pro in any sport, until now. I consider myself one of the best amateur throwers in America so playing against the rest of the best will be a huge part of my journey. Every time I visit a new venue and throw against a new crowd, that is when I have the most fun. It always elevates my game.

Yes, I pressed the button. I'm going to Atlanta to compete in the first ever WATL Amateur Axe Throwing Championships. I'm looking forward to meeting and competing with my equals. More than anything I'm looking forward to a bold new experience. I'm so glad I get to do it in this sport. See you all there! 

Alex 'TaskMaster' Hutchinson


"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than the things you did." - Mark Twain


When Alex isn't on the internet gushing about Axe throwing he also writes books, finances motion pictures and talks to people on social media. Feel free to send him a friend request. Let's all get to know each other a little better before the big tournament.

https://www.facebook.com/alex.hutchinson


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