Gary Katzen has continued his remarkable run in strength sports, representing Team South Africa at the first-ever Africa Strict Arm Curl and Freestanding Curl Championships held at the Onomo Hotel in Durban on September 25.

The 64-year-old multiple South African national champion returned to Durban just months after winning three national titles at the Strict Arm Curl and Freestanding Curl National Championships in June.

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“Winning these national titles is incredibly rewarding and a proud moment for me. At 64 years of age, it proves that with dedication, discipline and consistency, age should never be a barrier to achieving your goals. Every competition is an opportunity to challenge myself and continue improving, and representing my province and competing at a national level is always an honour.”

This time, Katzen competed against athletes at continental level and produced another outstanding performance.

He won gold and was crowned Africa champion in the Open Division Strict Arm Curl 100kg category. He also claimed gold and the title of Africa champion in the Masters Division Freestanding Curl 100kg category.

Katzen added another gold medal to his haul after winning the Gopher Bar Open Championship.

His performances also earned him the titles of Best Masters Lifter in Strict Arm Curl and Best Masters Lifter in Freestanding Curl.

The achievements did not end with his medals. Katzen recorded seven new African records and seven new world records during the championships.

“Truly grateful,” Katzen said following his performance.

The latest results add to an already decorated strength-sport career for Katzen, who holds national titles across powerlifting, bodybuilding, arm wrestling, strict arm curl and freestanding curl.

“My next goal is to continue improving my own lifting numbers, defend my national titles and represent South Africa internationally whenever the opportunity arises. I also want to help grow the sport by encouraging and mentoring new athletes.”

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His latest continental achievement also follows his message that age should not prevent people from pursuing their goals.

At 64, Katzen continues to compete at the highest level while setting new targets for himself and encouraging other athletes to remain disciplined and consistent in their training.

His three gold medals at the inaugural African championships, combined with his Best Masters Lifter awards and record-breaking performances, mark another significant chapter in his strength-sport career.

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