It was probably around July when District 93 (South Korea TM) declared that the event for the Toastmasters Fall Conference would be the Humorous Speech Contest. Since I have a slight idea of how to write a humorous piece, I wasted no time and immediately prepared for it. I had a discussion on this over a cup of coffee in Seongjeong Beach with my good pal Ken. Though I have already seen a number of speeches regarding Toastmasters, and I fear that people might not be irritated to hear another one, I took the risk and wrote it anyway. I thought of getting few old jokes about my old speech, some Filipino pick-up lines, Toastmasters and the cheesiness about dating. Hah! Whatever, Toastmasters is a place where I can develop my skills; I might as well give it a try?
I first delivered it in the 200th meeting in Go-getters TM Club in Busan; to be honest; it was for me, dry and too raw. My delivery was appalling and I forgot almost many of my lines. I know it could be improved. I tried it next in the club contest in Burning Brunch; after a number of practices, it fortunately worked. I had a little dilemma about time management during the area contest preparation that I felt participating was no longer a priority. I was invited to speak in TEDx, I joined the Ironman in Gurye and for that; I felt I can’t join anymore. Gladly, the odds went to my favor by closely fixing my appointments well. I won the area contest and still able to attend to some of my commitments. After the Area is the Division. I know that the completion will be tough because most of the time, I always get third and not going up to the District, so I asked two friends to sit with me on my speech to get further feedback, which I think helped me a lot and make me win the Division.
I have 3 weeks to prepare for the District Contest, but I signed up for another triathlon and half marathon event (Hah! I love punishing myself). I also committed myself in swimming during weekends and hiking, that I only have a small time to practice at night, at least I recite it with eyes closed when I am about to sleep to make sure that I am not forgetting my speech.

During the D-day, I made sure I am ready by securing my props, the microphone and the stage.
Gratefully, a number of people were entertained, laughed at my speech, and made me win. I received awesome feedback that really made my day. I got it! My first time to win first in the district!
Of course, I wouldn’t have made it without the support of my friends, a handful of them ensured that I got what I need to succeed. Thank you. I indeed had a blast. A wonderful experience, I will never forget. 🙂
Here is the video of my speech.