British Disabled Strongman at Holyrood Academy, Chard
A SUPPORT worker will return to Chard to flex his muscles next month.
Gary Clarke brings the British Disabled Strongman competition to Holyrood Academy for two days.
And Gary, who founded the tournament in 2015, promises the event on Saturday and Sunday July 30 and 31 will be bigger and better than ever.
He gathered a number of local sponsors and involved the charity United Response to bring the competition back to the city.
Gary, 45, has been involved in powerlifting since he was a teenager.
He has already participated in several international tournaments, including that of World’s Strongest Disabled Man.
Since the UK tournament launched, Gary has seen it grow year on year and says the public can expect “a great show of force”.
He said: “It’s a testament to what these athletes do – they are phenomenal.
“It just goes to show that despite having a disability or any type of disability, you can move forward and excel in life.
He added: “I would like to say a big thank you to United Response for their involvement.
“Together with our local sponsors, your support helps me run this competition, giving the athletes the platform they deserve.”
The competition will feature men and women with disabilities from across the country coming together to test their strength, competing in multiple weightlifting challenges over the two days.
This year’s athletes will tackle the deadlift, dumbbell press, axle press, atlas stones and sled pull.
The competition was held at Holyrood Academy for the first time last year.
Previously it had been staged at the Guildhall, Chard, and attracted over 500 spectators.
Gary has been a support worker with United Response based in Ilminster since 2011.
He says his own experiences have allowed him to have a strong connection with the people he supports.
“With cerebral palsy, you never really know what kind of day you’re going to have,” Gary said.
“I feel like I can relate to a lot of what some of the people we support are going through because of my own disability.
“My parents had to fight a lot for me when I was growing up to get me to where I am now.
You can buy tickets at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/britains-disabled-strongman-2022-tickets-341761085607