1996 World Junior Championship in Athletics, Sydney, Australia

Who wants to be a hero? Even if just for one day?

At 19 years old, I traveled far from home to compete in Australia—representing my country in the demanding discipline of the decathlon. Ten track and field events spread over two days. I didn’t know it then, but it would be my final competition.

Looking back, I now understand the weight of that moment—carrying the national flag during the opening ceremony. I was the best at the time, but I didn’t fully grasp the significance. I was competing not for myself, but to meet the expectations of my father.

Today, things have changed. I no longer compete to prove something to others. I compete for myself—day after day, every day, until the very last.

I’ve become my own hero.