Challenge Accepted: First Time on the AMG Start Line

“I’ve never done anything like this before,” said Kosal Mom, a first-time competitor at this year’s 20^th Australian Masters Games in Canberra.

That single sentence marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for Kosal: debuting in athletics on a national stage.

Until recently, Kosal would not have called himself a sprinter, let alone someone who would enter a national multi-sport event. But what began as cross-training for combat sports has since evolved into a passion with purpose.

“I picked up sprinting to stay fit, but I quickly realised it gave me more than that. Running is meditative for me. It helps me clear my mind through focused movement,” Kosal reflected.

Like many first-timers, Kosal never saw himself as someone who would do something like compete at the Australian Masters Games. But a nudge from his partner, and a growing ‘itch’ to test himself, changed his mindset.

Kosal first heard about the Australian Masters Games through his partner, Steph, who introduced him to the idea and has been one of his biggest supporters along the way.

“She’s been very supportive of me throughout this whole journey,” he shared.

Now, with his support crew behind him, Kosal is preparing to line up alongside seasoned masters athletes on a national stage. And he’s not chasing medals; he’s chasing the moment.

“I wanted to see how I measured up against other competitors and test how well I could handle the pressure of a competitive environment,” Kosal explained.

Training Smart, Thinking Long-Term

Kosal’s preparation focuses on balance, smart programming, and longevity in the sport.

He currently trains twice a week with the FAST Running squad, adds two to three weight-bearing sessions to build strength, and carefully spreads out his combat sports training to avoid overtaxing his body.

“The main goal is to stay injury-free and increase longevity in the sport,” Kosal said.

“This is easier said than done! The biggest thing for me is taking rest and recovery seriously, and making it a deliberate effort, not a passive one.”

By embracing a smarter approach to training and recovery, Kosal is laying the foundation not just for one event, but for many seasons to come.

Why the Australian Masters Games?

For Kosal, the Games are more than a race; it’s an experience.

“I’m really looking forward to having fun and soaking in the atmosphere,” Kosal said. “It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie and excitement of the event.”

Kosal’s advice for other first-timers? “Train hard, put in honest effort, and enjoy the process along with the rewards.”

And that’s what the Australian Masters Games are all about; taking on new challenges, pushing through personal limits, and sharing the joy of masters sport with a likeminded community. Kosal’s story is just one example that it’s never too late, and never too early, to try something new.

Catch Kosal and thousands of athletes at the 20th Australian Masters Games in Canberra, 18 – 25 October 2025. Keen to challenge yourself with a new sport? Choose from 50 sports and register today!