Run tall. Hips up. Fast at the board. I am confident. I am strong. Run like a Queen. I envision myself running, performing, perfectly. The perfect jump, where everything comes together just right. The perfect mindset. I am aware of my strengths, I focus on them. I know the capability of my body and I lean on the importance of execution.

As I prepare for this year’s World Championship, I remember all that I’ve learned since my first championship in London 2017.

The day before the competition I was shaking in my boots. I had thoughts of inadequacy. I had been invited, meaning (in my mind) that I wasn’t actually qualified to perform on such a big stage. I didn’t feel prepared since I didn’t know I was going to be jumping. I was on a vacation in the Greek islands when I received the invitation to compete.

I came in ranked last, 24th out of 24, based on my BEST mark. Doubts swirled in my mind, and I was certain I would choke. But, I also knew these thoughts were just thoughts. I knew that if I talked about them, got them out, then I could refill my spirit with positivity. I approached a Team USA staff member and she told me that I deserved to be there. That I was selected be on TEAM USA because I’m the best we’ve got. That runway is MY stage, and I will go out there and OWN it.

I don’t know if she knows what her words meant to me at that moment.

Two years later and I still remind myself that every time I step on the runway, it is mine, and I own it. Two years later and I am a different woman. I come with new goals. I am fierce. I am ready. I’m a new kind of competitor. A whole different type of animal.  The only shaking going on will be the stadium, from the roar of the crowd.

In 2017, I came in ranked 24th and jumped to 13th. This year, I come in ranked 13th and jump to…..TBD

Tori F. Baby

#livehappii #compete #Doha2019 #journeytogold