Arm-wrestlers from across the country will gather tomorrow at Kwanyoni Lodge to test their mettle at the National Arm Wrestling Challenge.

The best of the best will compete to win in 12 weight divisions, in the categories of male, female, senior, junior and masters. Organisers expect arm-wrestlers from as far as Cape Town to put forward their best performance.

The challenge will serve as a preparation for the national championships, the most prestigious annual arm-wrestling event under the banner of the South African Arm Wrestling Federation (SAAWF).

This national challenge will also be the uniting event of SAAWF and the Arm Wrestling Association of South Africa under the International Federation of Arm-wrestling.

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Due to the recent merger, the nationals that would have taken place on Saturday right here on home soil have been moved to July to a new venue that has not been confirmed yet. Those who qualify will head to the World Championships in Florida later this year.

Saturday’s warm-up will see former SA Open Class champion Terence Opperman, known for his iron grip, compete against some of the country’s finest. He had had the upper hand before the strongest arm in SA, 39-year-old Mbombelan Hanco Nel, took the top position. Before then, he competed in every competition that he possibly could to gain experience.

Unfortunately, due to a torn bicep, Nel will not be competing on Saturday. “I am out for at least two months, but will be ready for the nationals in July,” he said. Opperman is therefore expected to reign supreme in tomorrow’s open category.

Local arm-wrestling sensation Raymond Koen, currently ranked first in the u/80kg and u/90kg nationally, will be strutting his stuff. Lowvelders are invited to witness the action that starts at 09:00.

The weigh-in will be from 17:00 to 20:00 on Friday and from 07:00 to 09:00 prior to the event. Spectators will enjoy free entrance to the event. For more information, contact Nico Janse van Rensburg on 082-891-6350 or follow Arm Victors Lowveld on Facebook.

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