Well, it was a brutal competition in Belfast, pitting 16 of the UK’s top athletes against each other over 13 gruelling events. Split into 2 groups of 8, the athletes had to achieve a place amongst the top 6 by the end of Day 1 to qualify for Day 2 and a place in the top 4 by the end of Day 2 to qualify for the Final Day, so there was no let up.
Tom had never competed at this level or for 3 days in a row before so the whole competition was a steep learning curve. He relished it though!
Day 1 was a mixed bag for Tom, coming mid table in most events and winning the Human Wheelbarrow event. Unfortunately, on the last event of Day 1, the arm wrestling, Tom suffered a forearm/biceps muscle strain, but managed to qualify for Day 2.
Day 2 started very well for Tom, with a win in the Arm over Arm event. This pulled hard on his injury from the previous day, as did the Axe Hold and Tyre Flip. However, Tom pushed hard and came in the top 4, qualifying for the Final on Day 3.
Day 3 was hard for everyone, as the athletes were all tired, carrying various minor injuries and muscle pulls. The events in the Final were a mixed bag for Tom, but he did his best and did very well on the Atlas Stones and the Shield Carry. Unfamiliarity with some elements of the event-kit cost Tom crucial points, and he achieved 6th position.
Tom is very happy to have made the final on his first attempt, as many competitors try for years to get through to the final day. Tom has gained valuable experience and is looking forward to finishing in a higher position next year! Well done, Tom, from all at Wylam Brewery!!!
