IT was a clash of titans but also a battle for ordinary-looking yet deceptively strong men.
The first Kirklees’ Strongest Man took place at Holmfirth High School over the weekend with gruelling tests of strength for ordinary men as well as seasoned bodybuilders.
Among the challenges designed to push the limits of the human body, the tournament included the placing of giant rock spheres – known as ‘atlas stones’ – onto platforms.
Would-be strongmen also pushed their biceps, triceps and quads to the limit by dragging huge objects including tractor tyres and vehicles.
Click on the link below to view our photos of the contest
The event included five different weight classes ranging from regular Joes of less than 12st to giants over 18st.
The event follows Calderdale’s Strongest Man which took place in May. The category winners of the two events will go on to take part in the West Yorkshire Strongest Man competition early next year.
The trials of strength held yesterday and on Saturday included the farmer’s walk where competitors carried heavy objects in each hand for a set distance in the fastest time possible.
The there was the yolk walk featuring a yolk comprising a crossbar and two weighted uprights carried across the shoulders for a set distance.
Pillars of Hercules involved the athlete standing between two hinged pillars, gripping handles that prevent the pillars from falling to the side. The pillars are held for the longest possible time.
And finally the car deadlift where the competitor lifts a car straight off the ground until knees lock in a standing position.
Kirklees’ Strongest Man winners were: Jamie Hirst (10-12st); Marcus Clement (12-14st); Joel Pusey (14-16st) and Adam Dutton (17st-plus).
