KZ: Hi Panda! Congratulations on becoming the 2023 Mario Kart 8 Deluxe AU/NZ Champion​! Other than winning, what was the highlight of the AU/NZ Championship?

P: Definitely the free trip to Melbourne – especially being able to enjoy PAX Australia and meeting up with some good friends – in addition to the occasional tourist activity I could fit in.

KZ: Can you share any funny stories from the Australia/New Zealand or World Championships?

P: After winning the AU/NZ Championship, I had to ask the staff directing us about how heavy the trophy would be, because I was worried I was going to drop it. Luckily it was quite light, and even luckier I didn’t drop it!

KZ: Tell us about your experience at the World Championship in Japan!

P: The World Championship was amazing! Being able to explore the many regions of Japan was very enjoyable and I’m very grateful. Meeting the other competitors was also enjoyable as everyone was really kind, and it was a friendly competition. I didn’t perform at my best on the day unfortunately, and out of the six competitors I finished last, but still managed to keep it close at times and win a race! Overall, representing Australia and New Zealand was great. I also achieved my seventh WW time at the venue on Time Trials - the track was Bangkok Rush 150cc!

KZ: What do you do when you aren’t playing Mario Kart?

P: I’m a student so usually I study, and I work on the side of that. Otherwise, I like to chill and play games with friends and go out, or watch reality TV shows like Survivor!

Want to read the full interview with Panda? Grab the July 2024 'Epic Explorers' issue, out now!

Reckon you're a Mario Kart pro? The Mario Kart 8 Deluxe AU/NZ Championships 2024 Qualifiers are Saturday June 29-Monday July 1, and Friday July 5-Sunday July 7! For more info, visit www.nintendo.com/au/tournaments!