The serene backdrop of Loveland, Colorado, set the stage for the 2023 Shaw Classic from August 19-20. This wasn’t an ordinary event; it stood out with the grandest prize purse in its history and marked Brian Shaw’s final competitive appearance, where the title “Strongest Man On Earth” awaited the victor.
A Fitting Swansong
Emerging triumphant from two days of intense competition, Brian Shaw didn’t just win the event – he turned his retirement into a grand spectacle. His subsequent video reflection provided not just a recap of the fierce contests but a detailed breakdown of the event’s unprecedented prize money.
A Champion’s Generous Gesture
Elevating the Entire Strongman Community
Shaw’s philanthropy wasn’t limited to his peers. Additional portions of his prize were channeled towards the Women’s and Men’s Open divisions of the 2023 Shaw Classic. It was a gesture of support, underscoring his unwavering commitment to the strongman community.
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2023 Shaw Classic Prize Winnings
- Brian Shaw — No Prize
- Mitchell Hooper — $49,771
- Tom Stoltman — $34,655
- Evan Singleton — $24,830
- Trey Mitchell — $19,540
- Thomas Evans — $17,020
- Bobby Thompson — $16,013
- Maxime Boudreault — $15,005
- Kevin Faires — $13,997
- Oleksii Novikov — $12,990
- Gavin Bilton — $11,982
- Aivars Šmaukstelis — $9,967
- Luke Stoltman — $8,959
- Adam Bishop — $8,203
Brian Shaw’s Stellar Showing at the 2023 Shaw Classic
Brian Shaw approached the 2023 Shaw Classic with a level of dedication and concentration that stood as a testament to his commitment to the sport. The fruits of his labor were evident, as he delivered what many consider among his top performances. In a field filled with formidable opponents, including three World’s Strongest Man champions, Shaw’s prowess shone brightly.
The initial events, Log Lift and Wheelbarrow x Arm-Over-Arm Medley, were anticipated to be challenges for Shaw, with many not expecting him to clinch the top spot. His strategy was clear: aim for a respectable placement, ensuring a strong foundation for subsequent events. However, as the competition transitioned to the Car Leg Press, Shaw’s determination culminated in a triumphant victory, allowing him to secure maximum points and further solidify his legacy in the world of strongman competitions.
“I did not expect that the reps would be as high as they were in the contest… I had to dig deep to get those 14 reps.”
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Day Two: Triumph and Challenge for Brian Shaw at the 2023 Shaw Classic
The momentum Brian Shaw carried from the first day of the 2023 Shaw Classic showed no signs of waning as day two unfolded. Entering the day with palpable anticipation, the deadlift event was particularly significant for Shaw. His rigorous training sessions, centered on this very discipline, were about to be put to the test. Proving his mettle, Shaw delivered a commanding performance by lifting a staggering 1,050-pound Hummer Tire Deadlift, adding a notable chunk of points to his tally.
Following this feat, the Standing Bench Press awaited. Shaw’s prowess was undeniable here as well, clinching victory with nine solid repetitions. Yet, sports, with all its highs, is not without its moments of unpredictability. As Shaw pushed for a tenth repetition, a sudden strain was evident. The sensation signaled a potential chest injury, casting a shadow of concern over his otherwise stellar performance.
“I went for the 10th rep and felt my chest tearing a little bit. I felt it right off the bottom of the lift, and I just stopped at that moment. It was, at that time, certainly very highly-concerning for me.”
Brian Shaw’s Calculated Risk and Resilient Finale at the 2023 Shaw Classic
Entering the latter stages of the 2023 Shaw Classic, Brian Shaw held an enviable lead of six points over the second-place competitor. But the looming specter of his chest injury posed a significant concern. The Bag Toss, a penultimate event that requires considerable strength and precision, was up next. Shaw, always a strategist, made a conscious decision: he would participate without exacerbating his injury, even if it meant not pushing to his usual limits.
Yet, when the final event dawned – the physically demanding Fingal Fingers x Power Stairs Medley – Shaw showcased the heart of a champion. Ignoring the discomfort and potential risk, he was resolute in giving it his all. His tenacity, combined with an undeniable skill, ensured a triumphant climax. Brian Shaw, against the odds and through pain, emerged as the victor of the 2023 Shaw Classic, adding another illustrious chapter to his storied career.
“I said to myself, there is literally no way that I am stopping. Zero chance. If I am hurt really badly, it doesn’t matter, I am just going to do one stair at a time.”
Brian Shaw’s Emotional Victory at the 2023 Shaw Classic
The culmination of the 2023 Shaw Classic witnessed a deeply poignant moment. Brian Shaw, having faced numerous challenges throughout the competition, stood at its pinnacle. Yet, it wasn’t just the weight of the victory that left him without words; it was the honor of being crowned the “Strongest Man On Earth” during his swansong appearance in the sport. The enormity of this achievement, paired with the realization that it marked the end of his competitive journey, made for a profoundly emotional climax, one that will resonate in strongman history for years to come.
“It was a storybook ending.”
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Brian Shaw’s Vision: Elevating Strongman Standards
Brian Shaw, beyond his unparalleled physical prowess, possesses an intrinsic understanding of the rigors and challenges faced by Strongman competitors. It’s a world of intense dedication, demanding workouts, and immense strain. Yet, Shaw’s vision extends beyond just personal achievement. He’s dedicated to elevating the very ethos of the sport.
A notable manifestation of this commitment was the staggering increase in the prize purse of the Shaw Classic. The 2023 edition saw a jump of nearly $100,000 from its predecessor in 2022, signaling a transformative approach to valuing and rewarding athletic excellence.
With an eye on the horizon, Shaw and his diligent team are already gearing up for the 2024 Shaw Classic. Their ambition? To not just organize another event, but to curate a competition that stands unmatched in its grandeur, setting a benchmark for all Strongman events across the globe. In Brian Shaw’s vision, the future of Strongman competitions looks brighter, more inclusive, and more rewarding than ever before.
Overview
In the picturesque setting of Loveland, Colorado, the 2023 Shaw Classic stood apart, not only for its record-breaking prize purse but also as the stage for Brian Shaw’s memorable final appearance. With the title of “Strongest Man On Earth” on the line, Shaw’s triumphant performance, his magnanimity in prize distribution, and his enduring vision for the sport’s future made for a landmark event in strongman history.
Featured Image @SHAWSTRENGTH (Youtube) & (Instagram)
