As sports evolve, so does the audience’s appetite for diversity. Strongman competitions, traditionally celebrated for raw power, are now attracting a wider spectrum of athletes and fans with the introduction of varied weight classes. This diversification was on full display at the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition. Held in Bexleyheath, United Kingdom, on September 10th, the event showcased a dozen of Britain’s strongest men, all weighing under 105 kilograms (231.5 pounds).
William Relf: A Masterclass in Power and Consistency
While the competition was fierce, one name stood out from the rest: William Relf. Commanding attention from the outset, Relf dominated three out of the five events. But it wasn’t just about winning; his consistent performance across all challenges solidified his position at the pinnacle. With a remarkable score, surpassing the 50-point mark, Relf was the sole competitor to achieve this distinction.
A Victory Beyond Medals
By the day’s end, as William Relf stood crowned as the champion, it was clear that his victory transcended personal accolades. His triumph at the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition illuminated the expanding horizons of strongman events, signaling a promising future for these emerging weight classes.
2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man Results
- William Relf — 50.5 points
- Scott McGowan — 46 points
- Boyd Francis — 44 points
- Christopher Harrison — 38 points
- Matthew Williams — 37 points
- Jon Mallon — 29 points
- Adam Groundrill — 28 points
- Jordan Rea — 24.5 points
- Mark Pearson — 18 points
- Andrew Lumley — 15 points
- John Hackett — 11 points
- Shaul Paul — 5 points
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Event 1: Max Deadlift
A Classic Test of Strength: The Deadlift Opener
The 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition kicked off with an age-old, definitive test of raw power: the deadlift. In this quintessential strength challenge, competitors had a straightforward mission — to ascertain their one-rep maximum. To level the playing field and focus purely on strength, athletes were permitted the use of deadlift suits and lifting straps.
Christopher Harrison: Rising to the Occasion
Amid palpable tension and anticipation, Christopher Harrison emerged as the victor. Demonstrating impeccable form and determination, Harrison achieved a full lockout, lifting an astounding 360 kilograms. This Herculean feat awarded him a perfect start with the maximum 12 points.
A Tight Race for the Podium
Hot on Harrison’s heels, Matthew Williams clinched the second spot by lifting an impressive 355 kilograms, just a mere 5 kilograms shy of the top spot. The competition for third was a nail-biter, with two contenders tying at commendable lifts of 350 kilograms each. The close margins underscored the level of competition and the sheer willpower of each participant.
- Christopher Harrison — 360 kilograms
- Matthew Williams — 355 kilograms
- William Relf — 350 kilograms (Tied-Third)
- Jordan Rea — 350 kilograms (Tied-Third)
- Scott McGowan — 340 kilograms (Tied-Fifth)
- Boyd Francis — 340 kilograms (Tied-Fifth)
- Andrew Lumley — 340 kilograms (Tied-Fifth)
- John Hackett — 320 kilograms
- Jon Mallon — 300 kilograms (Tied-Ninth)
- Adam Groundrill — 300 kilograms (Tied-Ninth)
- Shaul Paul — 300 kilograms (Tied-Ninth)
- Mark Pearson — No lift
Event 2: Press Medley
Event Spotlight: The Overhead Press Challenge
The day’s second event pivoted from raw lifting power to focus on the strength and stability of the athlete’s shoulders. Contestants were faced with the daunting task of pressing four distinct implements overhead, each varying in complexity and weight. And they had to display their prowess against the unforgiving backdrop of a ticking clock — a mere 75 seconds was all they had.
Implements Breakdown:
- First Up: A standard 120-kg barbell press, serving as a warm-up for what lay ahead.
- Second Challenge: A shift in gears with the 130-kg axle overhead press, demanding more than just strength.
- Third Round: A 140-kg log lift, demanding both technique and raw power.
- The Final Hurdle: The uniquely challenging 90-kg dumbbell overhead press, necessitating a one-arm lift, testing not just strength but the competitor’s balance and technique.
Relf’s Remarkable Victory:
The final implement, with its one-arm requirement, stumped nearly every contestant — but not William Relf. Standing head and shoulders above the rest, Relf was the sole competitor to conquer all four implements, marking his first triumphant win of the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition.
A Tussle for the Runner-Up Position:
With Relf’s dominance indisputable, the real suspense lay in the contest for the second spot. Two contenders emerged, having locked out the demanding log lift. But with both reaching the same milestone, it boiled down to a race against time. Scott McGowan clinched the second position, finishing in a swift 13.98 seconds. A commendable effort, yet Boyd Francis, despite his best efforts, trailed behind, clocking in almost four seconds later to take the third spot.
- William Relf — 4 in 43.1 s
- Scott McGowan — 3 in 13.98 s
- Boyd Francis — 3 in 17.33 s
- Adam Groundrill — 2 in 12.54 s
- Jordan Rea — 2 in 13.22 s
- Jon Mallon — 2 in 14.88 s
- Christopher Harrison — 2 in 16.54 s
- Matthew Williams — 2 in 17.24 s
- Andrew Lumley — 2 in 19.31 s
- John Hackett — 1 in 5.69 s
- Mark Pearson — 1 in 7.73 s
- Shaul Paul — 1 in 8.03 s
Event 3: Farmer’s Walk Medley
Event Highlight: The Dual Farmer’s Walk Challenge
The third event of the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man heralded a twist on the traditional Farmer’s Walk, an exercise that tests grip strength, endurance, and sheer willpower. Rather than being a straightforward test with a single pair of implements, this iteration doubled the challenge.
The Task Ahead:
- Phase One: Athletes began by hoisting a 150-kilogram pair of implements, carrying them for a demanding 20-meter stretch.
- Phase Two: Upon completion of the initial leg, competitors transitioned immediately to a heftier 200-kilogram set of implements, once again battling across 20 meters.
Such a format not only assessed strength but also the athletes’ capability to adapt quickly and maintain their stamina over an extended period.
McGowan Emerges Victorious:
While precise metrics on individual performances weren’t accessible, what remained indisputable was the athlete who stood triumphant at the event’s conclusion. Scott McGowan emerged as the champion of the Farmer’s Walk, underscoring his physical prowess and mental tenacity in this grueling event. The rest of the top five placements, though not detailed, bear testament to the immense talent and dedication evident in this competition.
- Scott McGowan — Exact Result Unavailable
- Christopher Harrison — Exact Result Unavailable
- Matthew Williams — Exact Result Unavailable
- Mark Pearson — Exact Result Unavailable
- Boyd Francis — Exact Result Unavailable
- Jordan Rea — 14.5 meters (First Implement)
- William Relf — 13.7 meters (First Implement)
- Adam Groundrill — 11.1 meters (First Implement)
- Andrew Lumley — 9.5 meters (First Implement)
- John Hackett — 5.6 meters (First Implement)
- Jon Mallon — 4 meters (First Implement)
- Shaul Paul — 3.3 meters (First Implement)
Event 4: Fixed Tire Flip for Reps
Majesty of the Tire Flip: An Examination of Raw Power
In the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition, the penultimate event presented a Herculean challenge that tested both the technique and brute strength of its participants.
The Formidable Obstacle:
Dwarfing many of its handlers, the gargantuan tire stood as a monolith of physical resistance. Weighing in at a staggering 500 kilograms, this tire, more fortress than rubber, offered athletes a 60-second window to showcase their might.
Relf’s Tactical Triumph:
William Relf, showcasing a blend of raw power and strategic brilliance, emerged as the titan of this event. Flipping the colossal tire five times, Relf employed a distinct method to conquer this challenge. His approach? Hoist the tire onto one knee first, reposition the hands, and then muster the strength for a complete flip. This tactical maneuvering made Relf’s performance not just a demonstration of strength but also of intellectual prowess in the sport.
The Contenders and the Challenged:
Nipping at Relf’s heels was Adam Groundrill, who managed an impressive four flips, securing a commendable second place. A single flip behind Groundrill, Jon Mallon clinched the third spot, adding another feather to his cap.
Yet, the enormity of this task was laid bare by the fact that seven formidable athletes, each a testament to physical training and dedication, could not flip the tire even once. This underscored the formidable nature of the event in the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition, demonstrating that in the world of strongman competitions, challenges are not just about strength, but also about strategy, technique, and sheer will.
- William Relf — 5 reps
- Adam Groundrill — 4 reps
- Jon Mallon — 3 reps
- Scott McGowan — 2 reps
- Boyd Francis — 1 rep
- Christopher Harrison — No lift
- Matthew Williams — No lift
- Jordan Rea — No lift
- Mark Pearson — No lift
- Andrew Lumley — No lift
- John Hackett — No lift
- Shaul Paul — No lift
Event 5: Atlas Stone
Atlas Stone Challenge: The Ultimate Decider at the Britain’s Strongest Man Competition
In the annals of strongman events, the Atlas Stone often stands as the defining test of a competitor’s mettle and might. And at the climax of the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition, this age-old test once again took center stage.
The Stone’s Tale:
The objective was clear-cut, yet daunting: athletes were tasked with hoisting a 160-kilogram Atlas Stone, aiming to lift it over a beam set at a height of 1.4 meters. But the true challenge lay in the repetition. The question wasn’t merely about lifting the stone, but how many times one could do so.
Three’s Company: The Triumphant Trio
In a thrilling display of strength and tenacity, the final event saw not one, but three athletes vying for supremacy. Relf, Francis, and Williams, each displaying Herculean effort, managed to replicate the feat five times. This three-way tie set the stage alight, offering spectators a nail-biting finish to a spectacular competition.
Relf’s Crowning Glory
For William Relf, the tie in the Atlas Stone event held a special significance. With the day’s results in, it ensured his victory in the overall 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition. This achievement wasn’t just about a single event, but a culmination of consistent performances, indomitable spirit, and the heart of a champion. The Atlas Stone challenge reaffirmed Relf’s position at the pinnacle of Britain’s U105KG weight class.
- William Relf — 5 reps (Tied-First)
- Boyd Francis — 5 reps (Tied-First)
- Matthew Williams — 5 reps (Tied-First)
- Christopher Harrison — 3 reps
- Scott McGowan — 1 rep (Tied-Fifth)
- Jon Mallon — 1 rep (Tied-Fifth)
- Mark Pearson — 1 rep (Tied-Fifth)
- Adam Groundrill — No lift
- John Hackett — No lift
- Jordan Rea — Withdrew
- Andrew Lumley — Withdrew
- Shaul Paul — Withdrew
Spotlight on Relf: A Journey to the Top in Moving Pictures
Fans and enthusiasts now have the opportunity to relive the moments that led William Relf to his monumental victory at the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition. Relf has chronicled his astounding performance across a series of slides on his official Instagram, allowing viewers a front-row seat to his journey.
Reliving the Triumph: A Click Away
Those eager to delve into Relf’s prowess can immerse themselves in his captivating showcase by visiting the link provided.
*Follow William Relf’s Instagram journey Below:
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From Underdog to Champion: William Relf’s Ascension
While the 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man title stands as the crowning jewel in Relf’s career, his trajectory in the strongman world has been consistently upward. A notable second-place finish at the U105KG Europe’s has only added to his growing list of accolades.
Yet, as the strongman adage goes, there’s always another weight to lift, another title to chase. For Relf, eyes are now set on the upcoming 2023 U105KG World’s Strongest Man competition, a mere three months away. Given his current form and ferocity, Relf is poised not just to compete, but to dominate. The world waits in anticipation to witness what this emerging powerhouse will unleash next.
Overview
The 2023 U105KG Britain’s Strongest Man competition showcased the evolution of strongman sports with diverse weight categories. This event, held in Bexleyheath, featured a dozen athletes weighing under 105 kilograms, highlighting the sport’s broader appeal.
William Relf emerged as the dominant force, winning three out of five events and securing over 50 points, solidifying his position as the champion. His victory symbolized the promising future of strongman competitions in emerging weight classes.
Featured Image @reps_and_sets_gym (Instagram)
