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2017 Freedom Festival

Strongman Competition

The fi rst annual Freedom Festival Strongman Competition, hosted by Ligrowʻs 24 Hr Fitness, was a big hit The fi rst annual Freedom Festival Strongman Competition, hosted by Ligrowʻs 24 Hr Fitness, was a big hit
this year. There was a total of 17 competitors of all ages in three different divisions that came from all
this year. There was a total of 17 competitors of all ages in three different divisions that came from all
over the state to compete. There were a total of 5 events; The log clean and press, the super yoke, farm-
ers carry, deadlift, and the atlas stone. The winner of the womenʻs lightweight was Nicole Kelley of Cass
City. Lightweight mens fi rst place was Ryan Smith of Marlette and second place was Aaron Desentz of
Leslie. Heavyweight mens fi rst place went to Brett Ross of Cass City and second place went to Corey Loper
of Millington. It was a great event and we had a really good response for our fi rst year. I think it will
be possible to get 30 or more competitors in the future. There arenʻt very many strongman competitions
in the state, but to have one here in the thumb is really great. I am currently looking to get some equip-
ment at our facility so that people can train for the events for next year. My favorite part of the whole
competition was watching the competitors cheer each other on and support each other. There was a lot of
fi rst time competitors that were being coached by more veteran competitors. It was really great to see the
camaraderie with everyone involved. I am already looking forward to hosting this event again next year!

KELLY@SPORTSFINESTMAGAZINE.COM 989 672 0799 SPORTSFINESTMAGAZINE.COM August 2017 SPORTS FINEST MAGAZINE • 17