Barnstaple man strengthens community bond with charity grip competition

A Barnstaple strength and conditioning coach has organised a grip competition to raise money for Children's Hospice South West.

Sam Horn, who is a competitive strongman and grip athlete as well as a personal trainer has organised the event for the summer, with all profits going to Little Bridge House at Fremington.

Set to take place on July 20 at Appledore Football Club, the competition will feature five grip strength tests, welcoming participants across various weight categories for men, women, and even a teenage division.

Sam is thrilled to bring this unusual event to Devon, shedding light on grip sport, a rising strength sport popular in the USA and Sweden.

The five gripping events include axle bar deadlift, hub lift, anvil lift, pinch block lift and a farmers walk handle hold for time. Competitors will have four attempts in each event to lift the most weight and secure victory in their weight class.

Securing sponsorships from CT1, Odin's Tattoo Parlour, Gods of Grip, and his own company, Sam Horn Strength Systems, Sam is turning this competition into a community affair. The event promises a fun day for both competitors and spectators, complete with a food truck and stalls.

Beginning at 10am and concluding around 5pm, the competition will be a showcase of strength and camaraderie. Sam will be wearing multiple hats, serving as both the referee and the organiser of the event.

With different weight classes catering to everyone, he is eager to promote grip sport in Devon. To prepare for the event or explore grip training, Sam hosts training sessions every Tuesday evening at his private facility in Bickington.

For more information, you can check the Facebook page "Devon's Strongest Hands 2024" or visit his personal website at www.samhornpt.co.uk

Expressing confidence in the event's success, Sam envisions making it an annual tradition, growing in scale and impact each year. He is not just anticipating a great day for the community but is also delighted to contribute to the Children's Hospice South West, making every lift count for a meaningful cause.