Strongman Competition

Spectators are invited to cheer on participants in the ORU Strongman Competition and Team Pull/Tug-O-War on Saturday, April 12.

The Oral Roberts University Aerobics Center has ­partnered with Living Well Ministries to bring you the first ever ORU Strongman Competition. The event will take place in the Mabee Center parking lot on Saturday, April 12. The ORU Strongman Competition intends to ­promote healthier lives and give inspiration to take action. This competition ­provides participants the opportunity to reach new ­personal milestones while competing and socializing in an enjoyable environment. The Aerobics Center Director, Julie Dunn, invites you to come watch “as ­participants go head to head with Tulsa’s Fire and Police Departments at the first ever ORU Strongman Competition.” Spectators are welcome to cheer on ­participants as they compete for the first ever title of “ORU Strongman.”

There will be fun for all ages including a Kids’ Zone obstacle course by Vertical Limit Cross Fit. There will also be an Air Force game zone and a rock climbing wall. In addition, Health Zone of Saint Francis will be offering free health ­screenings to families and children of all ages.

This will be the fifth ­collegiate level Strongman competition facilitated by Greg McCann, founder and executive director of Living Well Ministries; Brad Johnson, retired professional Strongman; and Steven Morales, personal trainer. Previous collegiate ­competitions include Oklahoma State University and Tulsa Community College.

Greg McCann has served as a health and fitness ­professional for the last 29 years for the U.S. Peace Corps, Health Zone, and TCC. Brad Johnson held third and fourth place for the United States in the ­professional Strongman ­lightweight division over his five-year career. He was ­featured on the BBC/Discovery Channel TV show “Last One Standing,” and he is currently working on a non-profit wellness ­mentoring program for kids.

The competition will be split into three weight ­divisions: male 210 pounds and above, male 209 pounds and below, and a female ­division. Weigh-ins will begin at 9 a.m. in the Mabee Center South Lobby and events will start at 10 a.m. Events include: Culligan water jug load, barrel toss, truck pull (Culligan water truck, TPD Special Weapons vehicle, and TFP Grass Rig), and a medley including farmer’s walk, yoke walk, and tire flip. Finalists will earn their spot in an elimination tug-o-war round. Judging will be based on technique and time/distance for each event. Each participant will receive a T-shirt with registration. Prizes will be awarded to the top three competitors in each division. Snacks and drinks will be available for each ­participant during breaks.

Immediately following the main competition will be separate Team Challenges as police and fire fighters battle out their badges in a heated Tug-O-War and Double Fire Truck Team Pull.