A Cumbrian teen is celebrating more success in the world of strongman.
Keenan Pearson, 17, of Maryport, came out on top in two events – the yoke and frame carry – at the Manimal Monsters competition over the weekend, which took place at Manimal Strong Gym in Rotherham.
He was the youngest competitor overall, with the second closest competitor in age being 28, and it also marks the first time he has competed at an intermediate level.
Keenan said: “It felt fantastic, I’m feeling the strongest I’ve ever felt and I’m really proud of the performance I put out there and I know what to do to put more work in where I need to.
“My dad was actually saying do you not get intimidated or nervous but I don’t. I sort of just go to my own place when I compete, I don’t let anything bother me and I just do what I can.”
Keenan won the 280kg yoke which took place over a 30 metre distance with a carry time of 14.7 seconds – which was also his new personal best.
He also came second in the 200kg frame carry over a distance of 30 metres which he completed in 12.56 seconds.
The youngster placed sixth overall and also came fourth in the 100kg log with eight reps, seventh in the 230kg deadlift with five reps and eighth in his first attempt at the 130kg atlas stone with one rep.
Keenan typically trains six times a week with his coach Ben Harrison, who got him into the sport and has supported him throughout.
He also has to eat a whopping 10,000 calories a day in five to six meals of meat and rice to fuel his training.
Keenan added: “My family have been really supportive of me, my dad is always talking with me about what to do next and my mum is always there cheering me on and so are my brothers and I’m really appreciative of that.
“I also couldn’t do it without my sponsors, their support has meant so much to me.”
You can keep up with Keenan’s strongman journey by following his Facebook page – The Cumbrian Ox.
