Golden State Strongman Competition

I haven't posted on this thing in forever, I know! But, I've been sick for the past few days & have had quite a lot of time to lie around & try to feel better, so I decided that, this time, I had no excuse. It's (finally!) time to post some pictures & info about Paul's first Strongman competition. For starters, I was REALLY nervous that he would get seriously injured, but all went well!

Some stats on the competition:
1. It was a Platinum level event - this meant that much of Paul's competition had competed in multiple events previous to this one. If you ask me, it was quite a steep level of competition to start at, but he did a great job, all things considered.
2. They CHANGED the weight from what was previously mentioned in the event information, and not by a little, by a lot. Like 30 pounds. What the heck?! That is a TON when you're lifting things! But oh well, right?
3. There were 15 competitors in Paul's weight class. P.S. Yay! for him losing 20 pounds to compete in the class he wanted. Yay also for the gorging that occurred after the competition - I must say, I did enjoy going to several places & eating whatever we wanted. :O)
4. Paul struggled with some events that he didn't have much experience with but ROCKED the truck pull (took 4th!) and the car deadlift (took 7th - best deadlift he's ever done!).
5. Again - NO INJURIES!!!! Yeah yeah yeah.

Paul's buddy Russ & his wife Abby (whom I adore) came to support Paul & that meant a lot to us. Russ was such a great coach/support to Paul, in a way that I couldn't be. You know...something about Strongman comradery & feeling each others' pain. Russ came prepared with Powerade, extra knee wraps, elbow supports, and plenty of protein - he is great! Yay for good friends.

Here's a picture I took before the competition. I am so proud of Paul for being able to accomplish something that he has wanted to do for so long & has worked so hard for. He goes after his dreams no matter what obstacles get in the way & I admire him so much for that! There will be plenty more Strongman competitions to come, I am sure.

** I'll post a few short videos later, if I can figure out how to mute myself! There is no reason why you should have to hear me saying "Come on Paul" over & over AND over again. A little plug for Strongman competitions though - SUPER fun to watch!