Strange or odd objects are commonplace on the competitive strongman stage. Examples include the World’s Strongest Man (WSM) featuring monster truck parts in a loading medley, the Rogue Strongman Invitational routinely using a rollercoaster frame to haul 600-pound sandbags, and the Arnold Strongman Classic using a 10-foot long deadlift bar (Elephant bar) with a separate set of world records unto itself.
While flipping Fingal’s Fingers or launching kegs into the air are routine for strongmen, making it into the Guinness Book of World Records isn’t. But that’s exactly what Graham Hicks of the UK did on Feb. 13, 2024, when he stood on the Tower of Power to deadlift a bell for five reps in one minute. Check it out below:
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The Tower of Power has been a common feature of the Rogue Strongman Invitational for several years. However, lifting a giant tower bell underneath is new, and it scored Hicks his first Guinness World Record in Milan, Italy, on the set of Lo Show Dei Record.
You are officially amazing!
Hicks scored five reps while using lifting straps in a conventional stance. Per the Guinness Book of World Records, Hicks is the first athlete to hold this title, which would be contested for reps in the future.
To attempt a new record, prospective athletes must apply on the Guinness website. The application process is a simple submission form detailing the desired record the applicant wishes an attempt to break. If accepted, Guinness will provide next steps.
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While claiming an “official” world record is a highlight of any athlete’s resume, Hicks is likely still in the hunt for the all-time deadlift world record. He is among the few elite strongmen who have attempted, but not yet achieved, the colossal 505-kilogram deadlift.
Ivan Makarov and two-time WSM champion Tom Stoltman are also among those who have thrown their names into the hat of world-record-deadlift contenders. The heaviest deadlift ever pulled on camera remains Hafthor Björnsson‘s 501-kilogram deadlift from May 2020.
While Hicks may compete sooner, he is expected to compete in the 2024 USA Strongman Championships in Las Vegas, NV, on Sept. 28, 2024. That competition will feature the 2024 World Deadlift Championships.
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Featured Image: @grahamhicksuk on Instagram
