Well, I am here, alive, spine intact, intestines still internal, and I can walk without a limp. Yesterday was a good day.
I didn’t do as well as I hoped, coming in 4th in my division. I would have liked to do better, but I am not disapointed. I completed all of my events. Six months ago, I would not have even thought that I could do the things I did yesterday, so just doing them was an accomplishment.
What amazes me about this sport is the quality of the competetors. First, the physical strength and skill is amazing, but that is not what I mean. I mean that for the most part, these guys are class acts and great sportsman. The competition was pretty intense, often events came down to seconds or a few pounds to determine a winner, but despite that, everyone was very supportive of eachother. It was not uncommon for a ‘rival’ to pat you on the back before a lift and wish you good luck, even though a success would place you higher than him. My hat goes off to these guys.
As far as the events, this is how I did:
Log Press- 190lbs for one rep, personal best
Silver Dollar Deadlift- 600lbs
Farmer’s Walk- 180lbs each side for 100 feet- completed, but to slow
Power Stairs- 200,250,300lbs, 3 stairs each- completed
Stones- 5 stones, 120-220lbs, completed.
My strength was decent, always room for improvement, but it was on par with my peers. What killed me was the speed events. I have never been a quick or agile guy, and that hurt me. Although I got my events clean and steady, my peers beat me on all of the timed events. Lesson learned, and I know where to go from here.
Man, overall it was a great experience. I am hooked in this sport. I am lucky enough to live in an area that has many shows within driving range. I train with some awesome guys who have a great facility and a wealth of experience. I will continue to train, and I have my sights on a next show in September, the Police, Fire and Military Nationals.