Qatar’s Strongest Man 2016 Champion Fahad Al-Haddad along with other Qatari participants and AZF officials during the award ceremony.
Fahad Al Haddad was crowned champion in the Qatari nationals category for the second consecutive year at the conclusion of the fourth “Qatar’s Strongest Man” competition presented by Aspire Zone Foundation (AZF) at Aspire Park on Friday.
“This year’s edition was far more challenging than previous ones, and I’m very proud of myself for winning a second time. The atmosphere inside the arena was incredible and the support and encouragement from the spectators really helped us keep going. AZF has done a remarkable job every step of the way and I look forward to taking part again next year,” said Al Haddad.
In the expatriates’ category, Kenyan contestant Cristopher Oketch secured a well-deserved win after a remarkable show of strength in the truck pulling challenge.
The competition attracted unprecedented number of spectators from the local community, with more than 1,500 people cheering the contestants from the stands during the contest which has become one of Qatar’s most popular events.
Designed as the ultimate test of strength and endurance, competitors had to complete a number of intense challenges that included lifting cars, heavy weights and sand bags, flipping giant wheels and truck pulling.
AZF Events Manager Abdullah Al Khater said: "We’re thrilled to see such a big turnout from the local community for this year’s competition. Its success during these past few years has been supported by Aspire Zone’s logistical capabilities and its growing popularity is a further testament to the fact that Aspire Zone offers something for everyone."
He added: "Qatar’s Strongest Man is yet another success for Aspire Zone Foundation, which aims to promote sporting activities and encourage the public to maintain a healthier lifestyle by hosting year-round sporting events. We congratulate the winners and thank all participants and spectators for making this year’s event such a success."
Hamad Al-Jaidah and Fahad Al-Maadid — both competing for the second-time this year —secured second and third place respectively, in the Qatari nationals’ category.
Other contestants in the Qatari nationals’ category included: Thamer Al Kuwari, Abdullah Al Mohannadi and Khamis Al-Khulaifi.
Meanwhile, in the expatriate category, Portuguese contestant Ricardo Ferreira finished in second place, with Egyptian contestant Mohammad Duwaidar finishing in third place. Other contestants included: Ahmed Ghassam (Syria), Haakon Miknas (Norway), Abraham Abonyo (Kenya), Meshack Ogola (Kenya), and Joseph Iroo (Kenya).
Winners in both categories were awarded trophies by representatives from Aspire Zone Foundation comprising Al Khater, Tariq Saeed Al-Abdullah, Venues Manager and Ali Hassan Al Mansouri, Head of Khalifa International Stadium.
