Historically celebrated as one of the greatest pound-for-pound powerlifters due to his multiple World Records, John Haack recently expanded his athletic repertoire by participating in the world of Strongman. This decision to shift from traditional powerlifting introduced him to more unconventional events that tested his capabilities in new ways. Despite being a newcomer, Haack delivered a formidable performance in the U90KG 2023 Kaos Classic held in the UK on July 23rd. Remarkably, he clinched third place in his Strongman debut, reinforcing his reputation as a diverse and highly skilled athlete.
2023 Kaos Classic Point Standings
- Dan Benson – 117.5 points
- Nick O’Hare – 102 points
- John Haack – 102 points
- Benjamin Donin – 100 points
- Jim Mitchell – 98.5 points
- Mike Deli – 98 points
- Tyler Davis – 91 points
- CJ Krause – 89 points
- Leigh Shaw -87.5 points
- Tyler Young – 83 points
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Competition Breakdown: 2023 U90KG Kaos Classic
The 2023 U90KG Kaos Classic drew a large field of 23 athletes, amongst whom John Haack displayed his prowess, outperforming 20 contenders. Although Haack and Nick O’Hare concluded the competition with the same points, a tie-breaker relegated Haack to third place.
Event One: Log Press
Starting with the Log Press, a technically demanding event, Haack successfully lifted 130 kilograms (286.6 pounds), placing him in a tie for 11th position. His adaptation to this event was commendable given his limited exposure.
Event Two: Axle Deadlift
Next came the Axle Deadlift, an event akin to Haack’s powerlifting roots. Tasked to lift 290 kilograms (639.3 pounds) for maximum repetitions, Haack excelled and claimed second place with ten repetitions, just one behind the event winner, Dan Benson. Notably, Haack completed this event with only a lifting belt and lifting straps, while other competitors used a deadlift suit.
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Event Three: Husafell Distance
The third event tested the athletes’ endurance with a 150-kilogram (330.7-pound) Sandbag Husafell to be carried for maximum distance. Haack displayed exceptional strength and stamina, achieving third place with a distance of 65.90 meters.
Event Four: Farmer’s Carry
In the fourth event, competitors were to carry 135-kilogram (297.6-pound) weights in each hand for three lengths of 10 meters as quickly as possible. Haack’s grip strength, honed through raw deadlifts, served him well here, securing a fourth-place finish with a time of 27.09 seconds.
Event Five: Yoke Into Sandbag Load
The fifth event, however, proved challenging for Haack. Completing a 340-kilogram Yoke carry and one 120-kilogram Sandbag load in 21.26 seconds, he dropped to 15th place, losing critical points that affected his overall standing.
Event Six: Power Stairs
Haack made a strong comeback in the final event, the Power Stairs, an event he had specifically prepared for. He triumphantly won this event, finishing in 27.92 seconds to carry 160-kg, 170-kg, and 180-kg weights up a flight of three stairs. However, a Husafell Hold tiebreaker for the second place against Nick O’Hare resulted in Haack’s loss.
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John Haack’s Powerlifting Legacy and Future Prospects
Despite his recent foray into Strongman competitions, powerlifting remains Haack’s primary domain, where he continues to reign as the undisputed champion of his weight class. His strong performance in his Strongman debut signals his ability to excel across disciplines, leaving the door open for numerous possibilities in his athletic career. Whether Haack will pursue more Strongman competitions or continue to focus on powerlifting is yet to be seen. What remains certain is his exceptional talent and potential for success in whatever path he chooses.
Overview
Powerlifting champion John Haack, known for setting multiple World Records, made his debut in the world of Strongman at the 2023 U90KG Kaos Classic. Despite being a newcomer to the discipline, Haack’s performance was impressive, securing third place in a field of 23 athletes. He displayed exceptional strength and adaptability in various events, showcasing his potential as a diverse and highly skilled athlete. Although his journey in Strongman is just beginning, Haack’s legacy in powerlifting remains undisputed, leaving open the possibility of further successes in both disciplines.
Featured Image @kaos_strength_promotions (Instagram)
