Sunny Choi’s Journey: From Corporate Success to Olympic Breaking Aspirations
Sunny Choi, once a marketing executive, took a bold step away from her established career to chase a dream that many might find unthinkable. Her journey to become a part of the United States’ inaugural Olympic breaking team is a story of passion, sacrifice, and the pursuit of an almost unreachable goal. Though she left the Paris Olympics without a medal, her story remains an inspiring saga of resilience and ambition.
The Leap of Faith: A Career Change
From Corporate Comfort to Uncertain Horizons
In January 2023, Sunny Choi made a life-altering decision to leave her role as the Director of Global Creative Operations for Estée Lauder, the world’s second-largest cosmetics company. This move didn’t come lightly. Choi had spent her life building financial stability and enjoying the comforts that came with a high-paying corporate job. She shopped at Whole Foods and lived a comfortable lifestyle. Yet, she decided to give it all up for a dream that was fraught with uncertainty.
“It’s a scary thing to leave behind financial stability for a dream that might not materialize,” Choi admitted at the USOPC media summit held in April 2023. She took an entire year to contemplate her decision, balancing the security of her corporate job against the potential of an Olympic dream.
The Emotional and Practical Sacrifices
Choi’s decision wasn’t just about financial risk. At 35, she was also considering other life goals, like starting a family. “As a breaker, I was skeptical about how feasible this dream was. There are other life factors, like wanting kids, and I’m already 35. Am I willing to wait several more years?” she pondered.
Her boss, though supportive, understood the magnitude of her ambition. “I really want you to stay, but I can’t ask you to give up your dream,” her boss said. This marked the beginning of a journey that would pivot her focus entirely from marketing to competitive breaking.
The Olympic Dream: Trials and Triumphs
Early Challenges and Preparations
When Choi embarked on this journey, she knew it would be fraught with challenges. Her initial focus was on preparing for the Paris Olympics, which included rigorous training sessions and numerous competitions. This preparation was not only physically demanding but also financially taxing. Choi funded her own flights and saved money by training at public community centers.
As the Paris Olympics approached, Choi faced another hurdle: securing funding to sustain her training. Just as she was running out of money, she managed to secure sponsorships from Nike and Samsung, enabling her to continue her Olympic quest.
The Paris Experience: A Mixed Bag
Despite her meticulous preparation and unwavering dedication, Choi’s Olympic journey in Paris was bittersweet. She managed to secure a victory against Portugal’s Vanessa in the round-robin stage with a 2-0 win. However, this was not enough to propel her into the knockout stage, as she needed a top-two finish in her group and ended up third.
Choi accepted her defeat gracefully, acknowledging that her dream of an Olympic medal might not be realized. “I gave it my all, and that’s what matters,” she reflected.
Looking Forward: Future Plans and Aspirations
Shifting Gears: From Competitor to Mentor
With the Paris Olympics behind her, Choi is looking towards the future with a fresh perspective. She plans to open her own dance studio in Queens, New York, where she hopes to nurture the next generation of dancers. “If I ever return to marketing, it means something went wrong with my dancing career,” she stated. Her goal is to transition from competitor to mentor, imparting the lessons she has learned throughout her journey.
The Uncertain Road Ahead
While the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics won’t feature breaking, Choi remains hopeful for the 2032 Brisbane Summer Games. By then, she will be 43, but her passion for breaking remains undiminished. “I’m keeping my fingers crossed for 2032,” she said.
Business Acumen as a Safety Net
Choi is also pragmatic about her future, recognizing the value of her corporate experience. “I’m fortunate to have a background in marketing, project management, and operations. These skills will undoubtedly help me in my future endeavors,” she noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sunny Choi leave her corporate job?
Sunny Choi left her corporate job to pursue her dream of competing in the Olympics as a breaker. She felt that she needed to give it her all to see if she could achieve her dream, despite the financial and emotional risks involved.
How did Sunny Choi fund her Olympic journey?
Initially, Choi used her savings from her corporate job to fund her training and travel expenses. Later, she secured sponsorships from Nike and Samsung, which helped her sustain her Olympic ambitions.
What were some of the challenges Sunny Choi faced?
Choi faced numerous challenges, including financial instability, rigorous training demands, and the emotional toll of leaving a stable career. She also had to navigate the uncertainty of whether her dream would materialize.
What are Sunny Choi’s future plans?
Choi plans to open a dance studio in Queens, New York, where she aims to teach and mentor the next generation of breakers. She also remains hopeful about competing in the 2032 Brisbane Summer Games.
Will breaking be included in future Olympics?
Breaking will not be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. However, there is hope that it will return for the 2032 Brisbane Summer Games.
Conclusion
Sunny Choi’s journey from a corporate executive to an Olympic breaker is a testament to the power of dreams and the sacrifices needed to pursue them. While she may not have left Paris with a medal, her story is far from over. With plans to open a dance studio and hopes for future Olympic opportunities, Choi continues to inspire with her resilience and determination. Her journey underscores the importance of following one’s passion, no matter the risks involved.
