From Nosebleeds to Trophy Deeds: My Magical Journey at the Strolling Showdown.

Proof that you can manifest your dreams… or just trick your way to the top!

Since joining the Academy of Magical Arts in 2017, every visit to the Magic Castle included a ritual: gazing at the trophy in the Library Bar and dreaming of seeing my name alongside past Strolling Showdown legends. In 2018, I took the plunge with a card trick so underwhelming it ended with a nosebleed.

When your brain is still buffering but the magic already happened.

Fast forward to 2024: I returned, realizing the competition required a strategy. Although I didn’t place, it prepped me for 2025. This time, I brought my A-game with my strongest routines. The competition was fierce—23 magicians from around the country, 30 tables, and just 90 minutes to impress. My girlfriend Jamie and friends Sovann and Jessie hyped me up before, during, and after the Showdown, keeping my spirits high.

We came, we saw, we amazed—now the Magic Castle is a little more colorful!

When it came time for the results, third and second place were announced. Then, Randy Pitchford, the Magic Castle owner, called out the winner. Hearing my name, I was in disbelief. I had won—by a single point—against a talented young magician. Now, my name’s forever on that trophy.