Powerfully united: Mühlviertler deadlift championship on November 9th

Powerfully united: Mühlviertler deadlift championship on November 9th

Next Saturday, November 9th, the ninth Mühlviertel deadlifting championship will take place in Freistadt at 2:30 p.m. Athletes who have celebrated national and international successes meet at the cattle competence center in Galgenau to test their strength. A total of 85 starting places were allocated and, as chairman Peter Steininger from Askö Freistadt reports, these were fully booked in a very short time.

With this event, the club wants to show year after year that we can be strong together and that everything also serves a good cause. “We bring people together to celebrate our passion for strength training,” explains section leader Vinzenz Helmreich, emphasizing the club’s commitment to promoting sporting activities in the region.

A look back at the beginnings

The first championship in 2015 took place at the Marianum sports field in Freistadt and was also organized by Askö Freistadt. “It was all very spontaneous,” remembers Steininger. The competitors at the time competed under a small tent to protect themselves from the sleet. The event has now developed enormously and attracts more participants and spectators every year. “It is impressive to see how this championship has established itself over the years,” said Steininger.

The event has not only gained popularity, but has also enriched club life in the area. “The championship serves as a platform for the athletes to motivate each other and break personal records,” he added.

A program for everyone

The Mühlviertel deadlifting championship offers a varied supporting program with entertainment, from arm wrestling to a tombola. “We are looking forward to welcoming many spectators again and exceeding our attendance record of over 700 people,” says Helmreich optimistically. Admission is also free, which makes the event particularly attractive for families and those interested in sports.

The original spirit of celebrating the strength training community and supporting one another remains despite the growth of the championship. “The event has become bigger, but the spirit remains the same,” emphasizes Steininger. Spectators have the opportunity to watch the athletes' impressive performances and support them loudly.

Outstanding athletes from the region

The successes of Barbara Gapp and Paul Egger deserve particular mention. Gapp, an athlete from Altenberg, is not only a two-time world champion and runner-up, but also holds the world record in the deadlift with 196 kilos. Paul Egger from Neumarkt has also caused a stir by winning the Junior World Championships and has already achieved a personal best of 340 kilos. These successes demonstrate the high level of performance of the participants and at the same time promote the reputation of strength training in the region.

A common concern about deadlifting is whether the sport is harmful to your health. Helmreich vehemently refutes this argument: "Strength training, which includes deadlifts, offers many health benefits. It strengthens the entire body and improves fitness."

For fans, sports enthusiasts and the curious, the championship will be an excellent opportunity to explore strength training in a familiar and supportive environment. As in previous years, the event promises to be an exciting and motivating experience.