EXCLUSIVE | 'The Titan Games': Noah Palicia's Herculean pull against his brother Eric lasted 13 long minutes
Time and time again, Noah Palicia proved himself on 'The Titan Games'. He defeated his brother Eric in the intense task of the Herculean Pull before battling Victor Cruz at Mount Olympus. He won against Cruz and, in the previous episode, defended his Titan title with all his might against Exodus Rogers. In an interview with MEA WorldWide (MEAWW), Airforce instructor Noah speaks about his experience on the show, going up against his brother and what he took away from 'The Titan Games'.
What motivated you to join this reality show?
After winning the DoD Alpha Warrior championship (it’s like a mix between CrossFit and Ninja Warrior), my wife decided that she was tired of watching people compete on TV shows knowing that her husband would do well. She posted a message on 'The Titan Games' Instagram pushing for the show to feature the Palicia Brothers. They did! As for myself, I just love the feel of competition. It brings out the best in me and this show was an incredible opportunity to not only compete against some fantastic athletes but also show the world what a person of my size and stature is capable of performing on a level demanded by this show.
How did you feel about going up against your brother on the show?
We both love each other and always want what is best for each other, but in the thick of competition with this much visibility, we both had to set our compassion aside and focus internally to achieve the ultimate goal of winning this competition. I would not have wanted to share this moment with anyone else though.
Your Herculean pull was epic and inspiring. What was going through your mind during that task?
Well, in reality, the battle between my brother and me went on for about 13 grueling minutes! We were hanging from that obstacle until complete exhaustion. Because you cannot see each other and can only make a strategic move based on feel, it was a game of listening to the audience to find the right time to strike.
Were you worried about taking on Victor Cruz?
The man won a super bowl! Of course, I was nervous about the challenge. Plus, he has a Puerto Rican wife as well, so from personal experience I knew how tough he was! (don’t tell my wife I said this!) He was laser-focused from the start, but we bonded quickly before the event started when I asked him if it would be alright if we salsa danced together regardless of who won. He graciously accepted the challenge. The moments following my victory over Victor Cruz on Mt Olympus. My emotions were at a peak and when I looked over to see my wife, brother, his wife and daughter, and my other family members filled with excitement as well, I had to pause for a second to cherish that moment we all shared together.
This is a very physically and mentally stressful show. How did you alleviate the stress for yourself?
I have competed a lot in my life, so I am no stranger to the pressure and nerves, but having my wife there to cheer me on and help me strategize was the foundation for success.
How was it working with Dwayne Johnson?
He is not only a larger-than-life human being but a larger-than-life personality! I was so impressed by his desire to connect with athletes on a personal level during periods of the show being delayed versus retreating to his VIP tent. It was an honor to get to meet such a kind-hearted celebrity of his status and be a part of his show.
What was your equation with the rest of the participants?
This was simple. Being the smallest competitor in the field, I had to use my speed to attack an obstacle early, but be prepared to suffer an endurance match to outlast the gigantic athletes I was competing against. I deadlift 420lbs, run 5 min miles, and push my body to the endurance limits on a regular basis so I knew I had to stall long enough to make them quit before I could attack and win.
What was your biggest lesson from 'The Titan Games'?
The biggest lesson learned from this show is that the product that reaches television is vastly different than the actual filming itself.