It was a display of raw power, grit, and community spirit at this year’s Boomtown Days Strongman Classic. When the dust settled, Saskatchewan’s own Sam Rissling stood tall literally and figuratively as the champion.
For Sam Rissling, who has been competing in Strongman for nine years, this victory was more than just another medal; it was a celebration of the journey that started in a gym and led to a life on the national stage.
“I got into Strongman through a buddy of mine,” said Rissling, who initially came from a football background. “I loved lifting, and one day a friend invited me to train at Metal, which is kind of the hub for Strongman training and the sponsor of this event. A month later, I was in my first competition.”
That first event turned out to be a launching pad. Rissling won the amateur national title in the under-90-kilogram class that same year, followed by the under-105-kilogram national title a year later. By 2019, he had turned pro.
Since then, Rissling has amassed an impressive collection of titles, including multiple pro-am wins, two amateur national championships, and appearances at Canada’s Strongest Man, with another invite lined up for August.
His training regimen is no small feat, consisting of three heavy training days a week, focused on different areas of strength, from pressing and deadlifting to event-specific challenges like truck pulls and atlas stones.
But for Rissling, the passion goes beyond podium finishes and personal bests.
“My favourite part is the crowd, the fans, and the showmanship,” he said. “And honestly, it’s the brotherhood. I love helping out the new guys, supporting my buddies, and growing the sport. That’s what keeps me coming back.”
The Boomtown Days crowd certainly appreciated the show, cheering as Rissling hoisted massive weights, pulled vehicles, and encouraged fellow competitors with a contagious mix of intensity and positivity.
As the festival wrapped up, Rissling left with a first-place finish and a whole heart.
“It’s cool to put on a show for a small town like Shaunavon,” he said with a smile. “Everyone just loves it. And that makes it all worth it.”
With another big competition on the horizon and a growing presence in the Canadian strongman scene, Sam Rissling shows no signs of slowing down except to help lift someone else.
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