Organizer and coach Ste Gordon helped create the North-East Open, a competition that saw dozens of lifters participate in various kettlebell events this past Saturday. Held at Darlington College, such events included Jerks, Snatches, Longcycle, and even a relay. While there was a decent turnout of men and women competitors, it was the more than 10 juniors participating that really made an impression.
Speaking with The Northern Echo, Mr. Gordon mentioned how important it was to encourage the local youth to participate in kettlebell exercising. It’s a refreshing change from the obsession of Fortnite and other games that kids favor over physical activities these days.
Photos and Videos from the Competition
If you’re wondering about the results from the competition, they’re available here. After viewing these photos, I have to say, the team that put this together did a great job. Compared to last year’s Kettlebell Sport World Championship in Latvia, the stage and set up in Darlington was very well done. It’s an especially nice touch seeing the country flags of the participants.
Hopefully, more kettlebell competitions like this will start popping up around the world. There is a definite emphasis on support and encouragement with the mindset of pushing oneself to be at their best. Who says you can’t be competitive and have fun at the same time? Perhaps one day I’ll be fortunate to have enough interest in my area for kettlebell sport. I imagine it’s quite the experience lifting with others and challenging your body to its limits!
