This past weekend witnessed the grandeur of strength and skill at the Arnold Classic held in Columbus, Ohio. AIRWAAV athletes took center stage, demonstrating exceptional performances in both the Strongman and Strongwoman competitions.
Mitch Hooper: Emerging Victorious
Mitchell Hooper showcased unparalleled strength and determination, securing 1st place with a total of 52 points. His dominance was evident across all events, from classic challenges like the Atlas Stones to newer additions such as the Log Lift.
This is Hooper’s second consecutive Arnold win, reaffirming his status as a dominant force in the world of Strongman. As the reigning World's Strongest Man, Hooper's victory marked a monumental achievement in his career.
A look inside Hooper’s performance:
- Secured 3rd place in the Max Elephant Bar Deadlift with an impressive 431 kilograms lift.
- Triumphed in the Timber Carry, finishing 1st with a remarkable time of 7.1 seconds.
- Dominated the Webster Stones event, securing 1st place with an outstanding distance of 12.6 meters.
- Demonstrated prowess in Apollon’s Wheels with five reps, securing the top position.
- Achieved top spot in Stones of Strength with two repetitions in 19.15 seconds.
Bobby Thompson: Consistent Performer
Bobby Thompson secured 5th place overall in the competition. In the Max Elephant Bar Deadlift event, he claimed the 2nd place, narrowly trailing behind the formidable Hafthór Björnsson. Björnsson lifted an impressive 456 kilograms, while Thompson successfully lifted 436 kilograms. Thompson's successful attempt of 436 kilograms marked the last athlete to make a first attempt at this weight, demonstrating his confidence and skill in this challenging event.
Thompson's decision to call it after this successful attempt showcased strategic judgment, ensuring that he secured a strong position in the competition. This careful approach aligns with his reputation as a consistent performer in the world of strongman, where tactical decision-making and physical expertise are key elements for success.
Thomas Evans: Battling Injury
Thomas Evans faced a challenging turn of events at the 2024 Arnold Strongman Classic, securing 9th place but ultimately withdrawing from the competition due to an injury. The incident unfolded during the first event of day two, where athletes were tasked with carrying a pair of Dinnie Stones. One stone weighed 188 kilograms (414.5 pounds), while the other weighed 145 kilograms (319.5 pounds).
Evans encountered difficulties during the Dinnie Stones carry, managing only a few steps before unexpectedly dropping them. The surprise was compounded when he grabbed his bicep, indicating that something felt amiss. This mirrored a similar situation during day one of the competition when Evans performed the Timber Carry event and experienced a sudden drop of the wooden frame, accompanied by a gesture indicating discomfort in his bicep.
These back-to-back incidents underscore the physical toll of the Arnold Strongman Classic on Evans, highlighting the unpredictable nature of strongman competitions and the challenges athletes face in navigating these demanding events.
Maxime Boudreault: Faced Setback
Maxime Boudreault encountered setbacks as he withdrew from the competition after sustaining a left lat injury during the opening event. Despite the initial setback, Boudreault displayed resilience by continuing in the competition. However, he ultimately withdrew before the Timber Carry event, unable to overcome the injury.
Boudreault's journey has been marked by a series of injuries following his debut at the 2021 World’s Strongest Man (WSM), where he won a bronze medal. His return to competitive Strongman was highly anticipated, but setbacks including a broken shin bone sidelined him from the 2023 ASC and 2023 WSM. Despite these challenges, Boudreault has persevered, competing in events such as the 2023 North America’s Strongest Man, the 2023 Shaw Classic, and the 2023 Rogue Strongman Invitational.
Maxime Boudreault's determination in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to athletes worldwide, demonstrating the resilience and strength required to overcome obstacles in pursuit of excellence.
Samantha Belliveau: Record Setter
Samantha Belliveau's incredible strength stole the show at the competition, where she shattered records by lifting a 185-pound dumbbell not once, but twice. Her unparalleled determination and raw power captivated the audience, elevating the standard in Strongwoman competitions. Belliveau's outstanding performance earned her 6th place overall, an improvement from her 7th place standing in the 2023 Arnold Classic, showcasing her continuous growth and dominance in the sport.
The Arnold Classic 2024 witnessed extraordinary displays of strength, resilience, and determination from AIRWAAV athletes. Despite challenges and setbacks, their unwavering commitment to excellence continues to inspire and redefine the boundaries of strength sports.
