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My First Hyrox: Guadalajara - Tough, Fun, and Definitely Doing it Again!

Just finished my first Hyrox event in Guadalajara, Mexico on February 8th, 2025, and wow, what an experience! If you’re thinking about giving Hyrox a go, let me tell you a bit about it and why I think you should absolutely take the plunge.

Training? Not So Much…

Okay, so let’s be honest, my training for this event was… minimal. I’d dabbled in some gym trials, but nothing Hyrox-specific. Living in Seattle hasn’t helped my running game lately with the cold weather making it tough to get motivated. In hindsight, a practice run in the weeks leading up would have been a smart move, but lesson learned for next time!

Baptism of Fire in Guadalajara

“Tough” doesn’t even begin to cover it! This event was a real eye-opener. It was my first time encountering some of the Hyrox stations, like pushing and pulling that monstrous 150kg sled. Let me tell you, adding in the ball throws to basketball height and running between stations really ramps up the challenge.

Despite the toughness, it was genuinely a lot of fun. There’s a real sense of accomplishment crossing that finish line knowing you pushed yourself.

Burpees: My Nemesis

If there was one exercise that truly tested me, it was the burpee broad jumps. 80 meters of those bad boys sent my heart rate through the roof! It took a while to bring it back down after that station. Definitely going to be practicing those before the next event.

Would I Do it Again? Absolutely!

Despite the struggles and feeling completely wiped out afterwards, I’m already thinking about the next one. I’d 100% recommend anyone reasonably fit to give Hyrox a crack. It’s a fantastic challenge and a great way to test your overall fitness.

Room for Improvement

I reckon with some proper, structured training, I could shave off a good 10 minutes from my time. That would still leave me miles off the pros, but it’s a personal challenge, right? The main thing is to improve and see what I’m capable of.

My Results

Goal Times

Final Verdict

Hyrox Guadalajara was a fantastic, albeit tough, experience. It’s a great event, and I’m already looking forward to the next one with some serious training under my belt. If you’re looking for a fitness challenge that’s both physically and mentally demanding, give Hyrox a go – you won’t regret it!

14 July 2024 – Remembering Dad

My Memory of Dad

Good morning. Today we gather to remember a man who had a full heart for his family, a man of unwavering support and pride, and a man who embodied the spirit of adventure. Many here knew him as Peter, Pete, Pedro, Son, Brother, or Poppy. To my brothers and I, he was Dad.

Some of my earliest memories of Dad involve him coming home after a hard day on the tools at Michell Truck Bodies, smelling of welded metal and covered in black soot and grease. When we heard the old diesel Nissan Patrol roll up the driveway, we (the boys) would run like dogs for their owners returning home. His exhaustion would instantly vanish as we grabbed onto his legs, and he would walk up the driveway like a giant until he handed over our treat for the day. My favorites were the Kinder surprises or Yowies. We were even able to witness this in reverse in more recent years, as the grandchildren would run up the driveway and burst through the backdoor, screaming “Poppy” when they saw him at the back table.

Everyone here would remember Dad as a man who loved his footy and sports. We grew up playing a lot of sport, and he was always there to cheer us on at every game, match, and event. He would even provide us with a little monetary incentive by saying, “Every try (or goal) you score, I’ll give you $5.” This tradition carried on until his final days, where his youngest grandchild, Finn, scored five tries in a single game just a few weeks ago. He couldn’t believe his eyes as he was handed over five crisp $5 notes. He was ecstatic. Dad was an avid poster on Facebook and was proud to share the achievements of his kids (and grandkids). Only a few days ago did I realize just how proud he must have been of myself and family. Scrolling through his Facebook, I almost thought it was my personal fan page of my recent running adventures. It was then that I realized that I have not only lost my father but my number one fan and supporter. But I know he’ll still be cheering us on in spirit.

Dad always had a sense of adventure and would tell us about his big trip around Australia back in his glory days. I’d like to think this is where I have found my own sense of adventure. In more recent days, Dad would always be telling us about his new plans or showing us his latest bike riding adventures with Rick or Kevin or the rest of the gang. From crossing sketchy bridges to showing us footage where he or one of his mates had fallen off, no matter how rough the day or terrain, there was always one thing constant at the finish line: a hard-earned thirst and a big cold beer. And boy, did he love a big cold beer.

Dad’s life was cut short, but the memories of his love for family, his unwavering support, and his adventurous spirit will forever be a part of us. I’d like to finish on a lighter note on one last trait of Dad’s, even if it was a bit hit or miss: his humor. Even towards the end, in the cancer center receiving chemotherapy treatment, he had a sense of humor and would look on the bright side. The nurses would ask him, “How are you feeling today, Pete?” And every time, without fail, he’d reply back with “Like a Tooheys or two.” I hope everyone can remember Dad in the way he’d appreciate later today, with a Tooheys or two in hand.

Thank you (all for your support)

More Kind Words

Firstly, thank you all for coming. It is great to see so many of Peter’s family and friends here today.

My name is Michael and I am Pete’s proud brother-in-law.

Peter John Michell was a bloody good bloke…

Whether you called him Speck, Pedro, Peter John, or simply Pete, he was always ready to listen and to help anyone, especially over a beer. He was loved by all, as shown in the hundreds of messages on Facebook.

His favorite things in life were having a chat with a beer and a smoke, hitting a little white ball around a course (Member 1785 at Tamworth), riding his beloved motorbike with mates Rick Maher, Kev Cameron, Phil Orman, or the Froud Brothers, or best of all, spending time with family and especially his grandchildren.

Pete was born on the 4th of July 1963, and it was no coincidence that he was born on Independence Day as independent as he was!

As a little boy, he tested his mother’s well-known patience by being the first to jump off the 10-foot cabana into the pool or climbing, as quickly as he could, to the top of the radio antenna at Railway St. A larrikin he was.

Pete loved music and he bought many a vinyl record from Mario down at Tamworth Music. Every Saturday morning around 10, Suzie Quatro or Led Zeppelin would blare out from his room. He had it so loud that people all the way in town in Peel St would often ring Julie and ask her to please turn off that dreadful music. So keen was he on Led Zeppelin that he even got the Hermit portrait tattooed on his shoulder.

Peter’s sporting prowess was first on display at Little Athletics. In his white shorts, his white Bonds singlet with the big maroon “T” on the front, Pete was often seen racing down the track in first place… a huge smile on his face.

In the winter months, Pete played footy and was pretty damn good. “The Billy Slater of Tamworth,” I heard some people say, even though he wore his beloved No. 7. He played in the Under 9 rep team that went to Sydney and won, but don’t ask John to remember it. Apparently, the parents partied so hard that night that scotch was being drunk from flower vases by the end of the night.

His junior league career blossomed, and he played in many winning teams, especially many rep regional teams. The highlight would have been the Under 18 Grand Final for West’s where he played fullback. Michael McKinnon and his teammates can still remember his blistering speed from the back half and his terrific ball skills.

He never really liked school and decided that there was more to life than sitting in a classroom… there’s that independent kid. A trade career beckoned, and after several jobs, he decided to become a welder. At 19, he left the nest and traveled the outback for 12 months on his beloved bike. He then returned to Tamworth to join the family business. “He’s a better welder than me,” his father would often tell me, and together they built the Michell family business to what it is today.

Talking of the business, Peter’s legendary morning teas must be mentioned. His 10-minute smoko often turned into 40 with his mum preparing his favorite meals, whether it be Vegemite on scones or a meat pie (at just the right temperature). The world stopped when Julie’s little “Pettey” came home for smoko.

Pete was the only but far the most special boy to his Mum Julie. He was the apple of her eye and could do no wrong… much to the disgust of his 3 sisters. But it must be said that Peter truly was a wonderful son.

After settling into a working life, he rekindled his love for his kindergarten sweetheart, the lovely Sharon, his rock, his pillar. And in 1988 (14th April), he married her right here at St. Nick’s.

Three terrific boys soon followed, and the Michell family was complete. All the boys have grown up to be fine, strapping, young men with careers of their own… Pete was very proud.

Pete was a fine husband, a great dad, and a fantastic grandfather.

We will all miss him.

Thank you.

I will now hand you over to Ross.

Japan 2024 - Lake Biwa 100 Mile Ultramarathon And Kumano Kodo

A Rocky Road to the Finish: My Lake Biwa 100 Adventure

The Lake Biwa 100 is not just a race; it’s a test of endurance, a battle against the elements, and a relentless assault on the mind and body. I was eager to face this challenge, but little did I know, the universe had other plans.

The initial 25 kilometers were a blur of technical terrain, a treacherous dance with gravity. Every step required precision, a misstep could send you plummeting down a rocky cliff. But fate had a more sinister plan. A hidden, rogue rock, camouflaged by leaves and brush, caught my foot, twisting my ankle in a way that sent shockwaves through my body. The pain was immediate, sharp, and unrelenting.

Despite the setback, I pressed on, determined to conquer the course. The next 20 kilometers were a grueling test of willpower. Each step was a battle against pain, a constant reminder of the fragility of the human body. By the time I reached the aid station, I had fallen 16 places, but my spirit remained unbroken.

Fueled by ibuprofen and a stubborn refusal to quit, I limped through the next 30 kilometers. The pain was excruciating, and the blisters that formed were a constant source of irritation. The temptation to throw in the towel was overwhelming, but I drew strength from the words of David Goggins: “Don’t stop when you’re tired. Stop when you’re done.”

With each agonizing step, I edged closer to the finish line. The final aid station was a lifeline, a chance to change into fresh shoes and rejuvenate my weary body. I surged up the final mountain, my determination unwavering. The descent was a painful crawl, but I persevered, pushing through the darkness and the pain.

Finally, after 42 hours and 30 minutes, I crossed the finish line, 86th out of 350. The relief was immense, but the exhaustion was palpable. I had conquered the Lake Biwa 100, not just physically, but mentally as well.

This race was a humbling experience, a testament to the power of human endurance. It taught me the importance of perseverance, the value of pushing past one’s limits, and the incredible strength that lies within us all.

Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Route

The Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Route is a historic pilgrimage trail in Japan, renowned for its spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty. For over a millennium, it has drawn pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment and purification.

The route, often referred to as the “Imperial Route,” was particularly favored by emperors and nobles. Many emperors, including Emperor Go-Shirakawa, embarked on pilgrimages to the Kumano Sanzan shrines, seeking divine blessings and protection. These imperial pilgrimages not only elevated the status of the Kumano shrines but also contributed to the development of the Nakahechi Route as a significant cultural and spiritual pathway.

Today, the Nakahechi remains a popular pilgrimage destination, offering a serene and contemplative experience as hikers traverse ancient paths, encounter traditional villages, and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the region.

We walked this over 4 days per the below structure:

Date	Title	Time	Distance	Elevation
Thu, 17/10/2024	Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage – Day 1	04:42:07	14.63 km	997 m
Fri, 18/10/2024	Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage – Day 2	08:08:39	30.16 km	994 m
Sat, 19/10/2024	Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage – Day 3	04:07:47	14.41 km	665 m
Sun, 20/10/2024	Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage – Day 4	05:44:30	18.53 km	1,272 m

Would highly recommend staying in Yunomine onsen area after day 2, as it’s a long day out and a really nice little area. Note that you do need to get a bus there at the station at the end of day 2.

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi GPX – download.

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Four Days, Three Nights, and One Close Call: Our Yosemite Odyssey

The siren’s wail pierced the crisp mountain air, a stark contrast to the serenity that had defined the past few days. As I watched the ambulance carry my friend Joe away, I couldn’t help but reflect on the whirlwind adventure that had brought us to this point.

Our four-day odyssey began with boundless optimism. Kelli, Joe, and I, fueled by a shared love for the outdoors, set off from the Big Old Flat car park, our eyes fixed on the imposing figure of El Capitan. The first day was a grueling ascent, our lungs burning as we climbed over 1,000 meters. Reaching the base of the iconic rock face was a moment of triumph, but our celebrations were short-lived as we battled swarms of mosquitoes to find a suitable campsite.

Day two dawned with renewed vigor. We tackled the challenging climb to the summit of El Capitan, the world shrinking beneath us as we reached the peak. The exhilaration was palpable, and we rewarded ourselves with a refreshing dip in the icy waters of Yosemite Falls. As the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the valley, we found a perfect campsite, a stark contrast to the previous night’s ordeal.

On the third day, we deviated from our planned route, opting for a less traveled path through the valley. It was a decision that would prove fateful. The terrain was demanding, and the relentless sun took its toll on us, particularly Joe. By the end of the day, it was clear he was struggling, his skin pale and his movements sluggish.

Our final day began with a mix of determination and trepidation. Half Dome loomed before us, a daunting challenge, but we were focused on reaching the summit. As we climbed higher, Joe’s condition worsened. His energy levels were depleted, and he was showing signs of severe dehydration. The once exhilarating climb turned into a harrowing ordeal. With each passing hour, it became increasingly clear that we needed professional help. Making the difficult decision to call for a rescue was heartbreaking, but it was the only option.

The ambulance arrived, and as they whisked Joe away, a wave of relief washed over us. While the adventure had taken a perilous turn, the memories we made will forever be etched in our minds. Yosemite, with its stunning beauty and unforgiving wilderness, had taught us a valuable lesson about the importance of preparation, teamwork, and listening to our bodies.

My First Esports Tournament – 2024 Spring ESL in Dallas

For years, I’ve been an avid esports fan, cheering on my favorite players from the comfort of my couch. But this year, something exciting happened. I finally took the plunge and attended ESL Dallas, primarily to witness the thrill of StarCraft 2 live.

While the heart-pounding matches were everything I’d hoped for (seriously, the strategic genius on display!), what truly surprised me was the incredible atmosphere. The energy from the crowd was electric, and the sense of community was contagious. I found myself surrounded by fellow StarCraft enthusiasts, swapping strategies, sharing laughs, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

But the highlight of the event wasn’t just the games or the camaraderie – it was the chance to meet some of my esports heroes. I managed to snag autographs and even have brief conversations with some of the casters and players I’ve admired for years. It was a surreal experience, and their genuine passion for the game only solidified my own.

ESL Dallas was far more than just watching StarCraft 2. It was a journey of connection, shared experiences, and a newfound appreciation for the amazing esports community. If you’ve ever considered attending an esports event, but haven’t quite pulled the trigger, I urge you to take the leap. You might just surprise yourself with the friendships and memories you create.

Making the Most of Now

It Scares me….

Have you ever looked back and wished you’d taken that trip or finally tried that new hobby?
How do you know if you like something if you’ve never tried it?
What on earth are you waiting for?

Why do people wait until they are ‘retired’ to travel. I don’t know… I think it’s backwards and an unbalanced way of living. All too often, we hear heartbreaking stories of people’s carefully planned lives being ~~cut short~~ by illness, accidents, or other unforeseen circumstances. This begs the question: why wait for the “magical” retirement age of 65 to experience life? Why not start now?

I would think I’m a pretty out there person, squeezing in a lot of things, but I still think I have ways to go in fully committing. Upon realizing this, I’ve been all in for trying to get a solid job at a large multinational so I can expat around the world, trying new things and cultures. I see it as a part-time travel job with work to sustain the adventure. “Work to live, not live to work”.

From my first international trip back when I was ~19 years old, I realized how eye-opening and open the world can be. I probably didn’t (and still don’t) fully appreciate or endorse it all, but I know the opportunity is there. Trying new things and putting yourself out there. That’s why I am moving overseas – to live life in the fast lane, try new things, and most of all – to have no regrets.

Fired up! Get Some Go About ya!

So cool, I know I want to do something… But what is it and how am I going to make it happen?
1) Planning. As any good Finance person will tell you, success starts with planning. “If you fail to plan,you plan to fail”.
2) Execute: Make it happen. I’m not a humble guy… So I’m just going to say it, I’m good at this. I make things happen. I put plans on shared calendars, I book far ahead, I work through fatigue. YO to the LO.
3) Enjoying the moment and reflecting. An area I need to work on. Sometimes I’m too caught in 1 and 2 that it interferes with the moment.

My 2024 Travel Planning Map

From Vegemite to Venti: From Sydney to Seattle: The Beginning of my Expat Life

TLDR: It’s Feb 2024 and I’m moving to the United States to become an Expat!

G’day from Seattle to all my mates back home in Australia. Today, I’m not just sharing a travel story, I’m living it. That’s right, I’ve officially taken the plunge and swapped Vegemite for Venti, crocs for gators, XL to XXXXL. As of 26 Feb 2024, Kelli and I have moved to Seattle, Washington to begin our expat lives.

Why?

So why the big move, you ask? The truth is, it wasn’t one specific reason, but a whole heap of them! A part of me has always craved new experiences, and let’s face it, Australia is fantastic, but there’s a whole other world out there to explore. It’s all largely linked to my other recent post Making the Most of Now.

This was actually one of my longest plans to come to fruition. I can still recall clearly when I was still working at Woolworths and went for a walk around the block with a mate/colleague and I realised that I wanted to try something, not just an industry, but a culture, a society and way of thinking. I wanted to be working somewhere ‘cool’. I wanted to see what it’s like working at a ‘hip’ place. I want to see what running and other adventures are out there.

How did I make it happen?

So from that day of roughly 2.5 years ago, I hatched a plan and started to make it happen. First, I had to figure out what I wanted and why; cool companies, trail running, big national parks and a way to make it happen fast. United States – boom. Yosemites, Google, Amazon, but making it happen fast wasn’t an option…. Long story short, working rights are tough to get, so I had to go the long way around and find a job at an Multinational company operating in Australia and pray that they give me an international transfer. I’m not really the religious type, so I found an opportunity at Amazon AU and made sure I performed and did what I could to get the transfer. Skip forward 2.5 years, to Feb 2024.

Moving to Seattle, WA, United States

Pros and Cons thus far

Sydney / Australia Pros

Seattle / United States Pros

Home of the NRL
Things Feel Cheaper: No Tipping and tax included in prices make buying things and eating out very simple.
Culture and Society feels more environmentally aware (although still have a long way to go)
Feels safer

There’s just more of everything. Food, people, portions and destinations to explore
People are very into everything: Sports, politics, pop-culture, you name it
There a way to make a lot of money over here, I just haven’t found it yet…

Adventure is Out There!

My ever-growing travel map of the US and beyond. Come say ‘Hi’!

Progressing Through Life in Stages

I’ve been meaning to write this post for a while now and glad that I hadn’t rushed it, I have taken an interest into Philosophy and Psychology which has been a fun and fruitful venture! A few things have really stuck with me; Carl Jung’s Four Stage of Life and also his quote;

‘People measure you for what you do, not what you say you’ll do”

Ross' Perspective on Carl Jung's Four Stages of Life

Carl Jung's Four Stages of Life:

The Athlete: In this stage, which usually corresponds to youth, individuals are focused on physical development, competition, and establishing their identities. They seek to build their skills, explore their interests, and strive for success in various domains.
The Warrior: This stage typically occurs in middle age. During the warrior stage, people often channel their energy towards career, family, and societal responsibilities. They aim to establish themselves in their chosen paths, protect their loved ones, and contribute to their communities.
The Statement: As individuals move into later adulthood, they enter the stage of the statement. Here, people tend to reflect on their accomplishments and contributions. They may focus on passing down their wisdom, sharing their life experiences, and leaving a meaningful legacy.
The Spirit: This final stage is often associated with old age and the approach of mortality. People in this stage may become more contemplative, seeking to understand deeper spiritual and existential questions. They may detach from worldly concerns and concentrate on personal growth and spiritual exploration.

Favourite Quotes

“Your visions will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.”
“People measure you for what you do, not what you say you’ll do”
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.”

Trail Running and Lord of the Rings Locations in Wellington NZ

A beyond-awesome time in Wellington New Zealand. Although I was only there for 4 days – there was so much to do and explore for adventure and food lovers.

Highlights

Lord of the Rings Locations and Weta Cave tour
Surrounding Mountains for Trail running, hiking and mountain biking
Cycling – building and expanding more cycling lanes
Food and coffee options
Affordable – from house prices to food. Rent seemed expensive but hotels were pretty good.

Wellington NZ - Travel Map

Kumamoto, Japan – The City of One Piece

“My fortune is yours for the taking, but you have to find it first! I left everything I own in One Piece.” – Gol D. Roger

Ever since, One Piece fans from around the world set sail for Kuamamoto, searching for One Piece (statues). The treasure that would make their (travel) dreams come true.

As part of a collaboration with Eiichiro Oda, author of ONE PIECE born and raised in Kumamoto City, a total of 10 statues of the Straw Hat Pirates of ONE PIECE have been installed throughout Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan! The One Piece statues are part of a larger project to help Kumamoto recover after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquakes and are being built thanks to the cooperation of and extremely generous donation from Mr. Oda.