Lightning strikes twice

The dual experiences of competing on Jeopardy in December 2020 and then reliving it with everybody I know (and then some) when it aired in February 2021 were a fantasy come true. I dreamed of being on Jeopardy since I was a teenager. In my 20s, I started to think I might actually be good enough.

At age 36, it became a reality. I won one match, reigned as Champion for a couple hours, then lost my second. Then, “poof”, the dream was over. It was a life goal achieved, but also something that would forever be in the rear view mirror.

Or so I thought!

In August, I belatedly listened to a 3-day old voicemail. To my astonishment, it invited me to participate in something called a Champions Wildcard Tournament. I thought it might be an elaborate spear phishing attempt, so I trod carefully until I was able to learn more about it.

Long story short, it was real. Last week, I returned to the Alex Trebek Studio to compete in a 27-person tournament. This time, we weren’t under severe COVID protocol, so I got to bring Jen and my brother with me. To say it was an incredible time feels like an understatement. It added an entirely new dimension to my Jeopardy journey.

For now, that’s all I’ll say until my opening round game airs on November 10. I personally can’t wait to watch it again, because it’s all kind of a blur in my memory. Wish me retroactive luck!