On August 11, 2022, the organizing body of the Shaw Classic announced over Instagram that two-time defending World’s Strongest Man (WSM) Tom Stoltman would withdraw from this yr’s edition of the competition. With the competition right across the corner on August 13-14, 2022, there is not going to be a alternative for Stoltman’s roster spot.
In a video on his YouTube channel, Stoltman later revealed the rationale behind his withdrawal. In a mix-up, the flight plans for his wife, Sinead, were incorrect once they checked their final arrangements to travel to Colorado. And not using a resolution, Stoltman wouldn’t travel to the USA without his partner.
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“I didn’t need to fly over without Sinead. I couldn’t just leave Sinead on the airport,” Stoltman clarified. “My first instinct was to be sure that Sinead was alright and get her sorted. I might then consider myself second.”
Stoltman and his older brother and fellow strongman competitor, Luke, were initially purported to fly along with their wives to the competition. That plan was scrapped as Luke and his partner went to Colorado alone.
Tom noted before making his final decision to withdraw, he had a conversation with the Shaw Classic organizer, Brian Shaw. Then, Stoltman reflected that he needed his wife alongside him to compete and made the concession.
“The situation by that time was just an excessive amount of for me,” Stoltman said. “I feel the most effective interest for me now’s to only pass this competition.”
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On the time of this writing, here is the ultimate roster for the 2022 Shaw Classic. It can only feature 15 athletes after Stoltman’s departure.
2022 Shaw Classic Roster
2022 Shaw Classic Events
On the time of this text’s publication, here is the confirmed schedule of events for the 2022 Shaw Classic:
Day One — Saturday, August 13, 2022
Day Two — Sunday, August 14, 2022
- Log Press
- Frame Carry Arm-Over-Arm Medley
- Automobile Leg Press for Reps
- Atlas Stones
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Even with the younger Stoltman’s withdrawal, this yr’s contest must be a captivating battle. It still features multiple WSM winners like Shaw (2011, 2013, 2015-2016), Žydrūnas Savickas (2009-2010, 2012, 2014) and Oleksii Novikov (2020).
There are also a number of notable rising stars like Mitchell Hooper and defending Shaw Classic champion Trey Mitchell. Throughout, the remaining field could push one another in an exciting back-and-forth.
The 2022 Shaw Classic will happen on August 13-14 in Loveland, CO.
Featured image: @theshawclassic