As part of the Canada Day celebrations, the inaugural Hope B.C. Strongman Competition is set to take place. The one-day event will attract participants from across the province to compete in six tests of strength.
Karen and Joe Scalise, owners of Muscleworks Gym, are responsible for bringing the event to town.
“We were trying to think of what we could do, differently, that would work with the car show,” said Karen.
After a few ideas were dismissed, the notion of “muscles and muscle cars” seemed a perfect fit.
The local couple got in contact with Robin Wright, the founder and director of the B.C. Extreme Athletics Association (BCEAA) who organized the event.
The Hope competition is now a BC Strongman qualifier with the top three finishers earning a rank placing in the B.C.’s Strongest Man Competition set for mid-August in Kamloops.
Because it’s a qualifier, Hope’s event is attracting plenty of attention.
“So far there is about 15 0r 20 entrants,’ said Karen.
There are three separate categories in strongman, heavy weight, light weight and women’s.
All competitors will take part in the car dead lift, the truck pull, tire flip, log press, atlas stones and the Louise Cyr press.
“There will be lots of great event for the public to watch and it’s all free,” said Karen.
The competition takes place on July 1, beginning at 10 a.m. in Downtown Hope (on Wallace Street between third and fourth).
According to Joe, the event should features some impressive feats.
“This is not a body building event, its a test of strength … it’s not a hobby for these guys, they train all year,” he said.
Support for the idea has been great said Karen.
“We have 30 sponsors on board … This town has really opened its doors for this event.
“I think we just needed something different.”
If you wish to enter the competition, you can register online at www.BCEAA.org. The cost to compete is $25 but the public can watch for free.
