Testing phase for Qatar’s Strongest Man 2017 competition kicks off at Aspire Zone

Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) kicked off the qualifying phase for thehighly anticipated Qatar’s Strongest Man competition (QSM) 2017, takingplace from 24-25 November in Aspire Park. Now in its fifth year, the first round of tests began with a series ofrigorous health and physical assessments for this year’s Qatari andexpat sports enthusiasts keen to demonstrate their power and speed inthe hope of being selected to qualify for this year’s ultimate strongmancompetition.Only the strongest and fastest entrants who successfully complete thephysical assessments, which comprise of challenging tasks including200-kg-weight lifts and a 20-metre walk while carrying 120kg in eacharm, will be chosen to compete in this year’s competition.Last year’s defending champions in the Qatari and expat categories,Qatari Fahad al-Haddad and Kenyan giant Christopher Oketch, were seenamong the entrants being assessed on the first day of the testing round.Speaking on the sidelines of the testing event, 41-year-old defendingchampion Fahad al-Haddad praised Aspire Zone’s logistical capabilities,saying their commitment to organise a great tournament encourages him toreturn each year.He added: “For me, sport is more to do with mental state rather thanphysical attributes that could be slowed by age, so I will keepreturning to defend the title as long as I am fit and capable and in thecompeting frame of mind. For youngsters wanting to get intobodybuilding or strength training I encourage them to participate in thecompetition.”Meanwhile, Christopher Oketch, spoke about his preparations for thisyear’s tournament, saying: “I exercise four days a week, follow aconsistent workout plan and consume a high-calorie diet. I expect thisyear’s competition to be more challenging, so I’ve been preparing forover sixth months to gain more muscle.”There were a few new faces among the entrants who showed remarkablepotential, including Qatari participant Abdulaziz al-Kuwari, who signedup for the first time in the QSM competition.When asked about his participation, al-Kuwari said: “I’ve been hearingabout this competition for a while. My coach, who’s been taking part inthe competition for the past three years, encouraged me to participate,saying how fun and thrilling it is to compete against such strongcontestants It’s a great event and helps promote the sport itself andQatar as sporting nation.”