Select a region
A local PT who has been crowned one of Europe's strongest men is seeking funds to help achieve his "dream" of representing Jersey in the Official Strongman Games World Finals in the US later this year.
Last May, James Stuart’s “adrenaline and determination” saw him snatch third place in a national competition which involved six events including pulling an eight-tonne truck and deadlifting a car.
And his success has continued since, with James – known to clients as 'Big Jim' – placing second in the Official Strongman Games Britain's Strongest Man Over-40s category, and third in the European equivalent.
He now has his eyes firmly fixed on a global prize at the World Finals taking place in Charleston, West Virginia, in December – but, as a self-funded athlete with a young family, needs help to get there.
View this post on Instagram
Friends and supporters have since started a crowdfunding initiative with a target of £3,500 to help him with the costs.
Charles Beaumont, who created the page, explained: "It's difficult to put into words what massive achievements these are except to say that he was competing against professional strongmen who have sponsorship with all the support of coaches and physios on hand to attend to their every need. Yet he still managed to beat the majority.
"Strongman as a sport takes a huge amount of dedication, perseverance and focus. James has all of these in abundance and has huge support from his wife and children. The most difficult element is funding with all ranking competitions being in either the UK or USA."
View this post on Instagram
He added that "good result" for his friend could be "life-changing" with the possibility of securing professional status and sponsorship.
Donations have poured in since the page was set up on 16 August, and more than £2,000 has been raised.
James, whose training is now well underway, told his followers on social media that he was "humbled" by their support so far.
View this post on Instagram
"I appreciate times are expensive but even the smallest amounts add up and every donation is greatly appreciated.
"Thank you for your help and kindness.
"It allows me to focus more on my training and to represent the island to the best of my ability."
You can support the fundraiser by clicking HERE.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.