Ayjay Colley | Canada's Ultimate Challenge Bio
NAME: Ayjay Colley
OCCUPATION: Tumbling coach
AGE: 30
HOMETOWN: Halifax, N.S.
Ayjay is a tumbling coach from Halifax, Nova Scotia, who's no stranger to breaking barriers. He grew up playing traditional team sports like baseball and basketball, but eventually swerved to cheer and tumbling. Even though he faced homophobic pushback, Ayjay excelled in the sport and became one of Nova Scotia's top cheerleaders.
Now, Ayjay is prepared to rewire any doubts, whether from the other teams or his teammates. For him, success is about bringing positive vibes and not holding back who he is.
What's driving you to take on Canada's Ultimate Challenge?
Getting to the Top 60 in the application process of Big Brother 12 and not making it.
What unique skills will set you apart from the competition?
I defy gravity with flipping being my forte.
How did you gear up for Canada's Ultimate Challenge?
I am already very active so I didn't change much of my regular lifestyle. I did start lifting a little heavier but for the most part I was just amped for the opportunity.
What do you fear the most in the competition?
I don't think I had much fear aside from the idea of my team being split up at some point.
What's the toughest thing life has thrown you and how did it prepare you for this challenge?
I lost my main source of income in May of 2023 for over a year and it taught me that even in what feels like the toughest and scariest of times, your mindset and the way you think is so key and important.
Staying positive, resilient and reminding myself I can get through anything life throws at me.
Who is your favourite player from past seasons?
Jenny because she genuinely is a ray of positive light and I can feel that energy through the screen.
What's a random fact that people would be shocked to learn about you?
In June of 2023, I wrote a note on my phone at a bus stop in Ontario before I moved back to N.S. with five goals as I entered my 30s. Number 5 was getting on a reality TV show.
Canada's Ultimate Challenge comes to CBC Gem on Thursday, February 27.
