Longford's ‘Midlands Strongest’ powers its way to new highs

Now in its second year of competition, Longford’s Coral Leisure Complex provided the backdrop to an event which attracted over 20 competitors from across the region.

Organiser Dave Harrington, who is a revered strongman in his own right, said the occasion more than surpassed his own expectations.

“We had 23 compete over two categories which was up on last year’s numbers,” he said.

“The ladies side there wasn’t as much uptake, but we will be making a push on that for next year.”

Dave singled out the input from Jack Harkin and Jade Hoare for their part in ensuring the day went off with the minimum of fuss.

“The event ran very smoothly and that was also down to all the staff in the building,” he said.

“We had prepared for the worst (of the weather) but we only got one shower and we are hoping to make it bigger and better next year.”

Aside from its obvious health benefits, Dave said the wider benefits of the sport were just as favourable. “That’s the thing about it, by building towards events like this it can really help set goals and flip your life around,” he said.

Dave also highlighted the progress made by two local competitors, Stephen Conway and Darren Kelly, both of whom finished first and second respectively.

He added that despite the dust barely settling on its 2023 staging, attention was already being cast in the direction on next year’s offering. “I am already looking at equipment to make the event even bigger as it’s a spectator sport as much as anything else.”

There will be an announcement on it in January and open registration will take place in February with the event itself set for late June or early July next year.”

For anyone interested and to find out more, simply follow @whatlimitsdavidh or @coralleisurelongford on Instagram.