Iron Island gym in Bury St Edmunds to host charity Strongman contest with former Britain's Strongest Man winner Terry Hollands as head referee
A town gym is set to host a Strongman contest for charity with more than 40 competitors battling to win a trophy.
Iron Island, based at Miro House in Western Way, Bury St Edmunds, is putting on the event tomorrow and Sunday, for the second time following its success in October.
The event will see Terry Hollands, past winner of England's Strongest Man, Britain's Strongest Man and UK's Strongest Man competitions, as head referee.
A total of 44 competitors will take part over the weekend, with beginner, novice, intermediate and open categories for both men and women.
Matt Kennedy, 53, who is manager at Iron Island, said: “I’m very excited for this weekend.”
“There has been the usual stresses when organising an event but there’s a great team of people and volunteers here who help make it a lot easier, which I’m very grateful for.
“I’ve been involved with Strongman stuff for a few years now so being able to put this on is brilliant and I enjoy inspiring people so hopefully it may motivate others to give the sport a go.”
“If people come along they get to see some exciting events at different levels and I know it will be great fun for a good cause.”
The Strongman event will be raising money for Lupus UK. The charity was picked by Matt in memory of his mum who was affected by the condition.
There is a £5 fee for spectators and a £35 fee for athletes entering the event, with trophies awarded to the top three places in each category.
Matt spoke on what it was like to get Terry Hollands, who is his coach, involved in the event.
“It’s amazing that Terry is giving up his own time to be here for two days,” he said.
“He’s so inspiring and a super nice person. He’s just a whole another level of human to be honest.
“The Strongman community is possibly the best community I’ve ever been involved in to be honest as it’s so supportive and a real pleasure to be a part of.”
There will also be a BBQ party on the Saturday evening at the gym car park.