Daniel Kim
What did your preparation for this event look like?
Since this freestyle was a chill one-throw of the tricks I’ve been doing recently, I didn’t really practice too much. I’d run the full freestyle around once a day for a couple weeks, but during random yoyo breaks would do the same tricks anyways for fun.
What gear did you use and did you have any special set up?
I used the UNPRLD Distortion, my latest signature yoyo! For string/bearing/pad I used Original Throw Izuru blend (white), OT bearing, and OT white pad.
Was there a specific trick or element you were most proud to pull off on stage? Or a favorite part of our performance/routine?
Honestly I’m just glad it went smoothly enough that the freestyle could remain a one-throw. I was also surprised to land both suicides since those were pure RNG and I’d never hit them in practice.
If you could have done one thing differently what would that have been?
I typically watch all the freestyles going before me, but this time I tried not doing so, since some other competitors do this to focus. I think I should have watched them anyway since there’s too many exciting moments I wouldn’t want to miss next time.
What’s your favorite memory from PNWR?
This year was so good I couldn’t pick just one. I really enjoyed touring One Drop, catching up with the friends I haven’t seen in forever, and all the post-contest madness like the 1am donut run and collectively struggling with the double-gt ninja vanish (shoutout Cade).
What advice do you have for people looking to compete for the first time?
Focus on having fun and not take things too seriously! Enjoy the stage, the crowd, and your own freestyle, and prioritize not getting stressed! I personally feel much less stress if I practice consistently over a long period of time, rather than cramming tons of runs into a short span.
What will you take away to prepare you for your next competition?
I really want to do a higher energy freestyle next, so I’ll be intentional about practicing and try putting on a good show!