Question for Jesse Snadden

[MarshallWhite]

When and Where will Canadian Nationals be? Also what will the events be? Thanks homey I'm excited to hear the results of this show!!!!!

[Jesse Snadden]

It's in Quebec city in late August at the annual Expocité.

As for events, they haven't been released yet.

[MarshallWhite]

It's in Quebec city in late August at the annual Expocité.

As for events, they haven't been released yet.
That's not too far away!!! When will the events be released? Just some quick questions...who's equipment is used for ya'lls nationals?, who all will be there and how did they qualify? Is it ever held anywhere besides Quebec? You mentioned in another thread that you are a pro-strongman in your country..how did you obtain that status? Sorry for all the questions but being so close to Canada and being good friends with Matt Parkes I'm really interested.

[Stu Christensen]

I don't want to take away from Jesse... so I'm sure he'll come in here and answer the questions.

I believe the equipment used in Nationals is Hugo's stuff... but not 100% sure. As for "pro" status in Canada, I was under the impression that we don't have any pros as we don't really have a governing body officially although CFSA is working towards it. I would have no idea how he would have obtained pro status or what show he would have won to get it.

In order to get to Nationals you have to qualify. I live in Western Canada and our qualifier is next weekend - and Matt will be there competing. I'll be competing too, although I know I won't finish top 3 to go to Canadians. The events are: arm over arm truck pull, press medley, DL for reps, atlas stones, and farmers walk / tire flip medley.

Hope this helps out a little until Jesse can come in and reply.

[Jesse Snadden]

That's not too far away!!! When will the events be released? Just some quick questions...who's equipment is used for ya'lls nationals?, who all will be there and how did they qualify? Is it ever held anywhere besides Quebec? You mentioned in another thread that you are a pro-strongman in your country..how did you obtain that status? Sorry for all the questions but being so close to Canada and being good friends with Matt Parkes I'm really interested.


The events will be released once the comittee has decided what they will be.

The equipment will most likely be Mark Lauzons (Head Judge in Canada). He's a professional welder and makes some great equipment.

So far the only qualifier that is done is the Atlantics, which Grant Conners won and will be representing the Maritimes. Perhaps the runner-up will get a spot too... I'm not sure.

Jessen Paulin was last years CSM. He gets an automatic pass.
Western Canada Strongest Man will be held July1st in Regina. Top 3 move on to Nationals.
Ontario Strongest Man is going to be held July 7-8th in Ottawa. Top 2-3 will move on to Nationals.
Quebec Strongest Man will be held July 19-20th in St-Hiacynthe. Top 4 will move on to Nationals.

The Nationals was held in North Bay, Ontario in 2002.

Why is almost always in Quebec? Nowhere else is Strongman supported as strongly in Canada. That is not disputable either my friend. It's far easier to get plenty of big sponsors to cover food, hotel, flight costs, prize money and cover recording it for television. We used to have our provincials filmed but Hugo had trouble getting enough sponsors to cover the television costs in other provinces that he always ended up covering a LARGE part of the bill himself.

We don't have pro cards or anything related in Canada. I qualified for and competed in Canada's Strongest Man 2005. I competed in the United Strongman Series Edmonton contest in 2005 against guys like Sam McMahon, Mickhail Sidorichev, Oleksandr Pekanov, Michael Starov... I'm also a competitor in the Quebec cup, so I regularily compete against Jessen Paulin, Louie-Philippe Jean, Dominic Filiou, Steve Bourgeois and this year, Hugo Girard. For all intents and purposes, you can consider me the equivalent of a pro in your country.

Personally, I find the term pro rediculous anyways. There are perhaps a handfull of strongmen that are true pro's... they live off the sport entirely. The rest can only really be considered semi-professional. I don't make enough to live off this sport. I have to balance it with a full time job at Canada Revenue Agency.

[Jesse Snadden]

I believe the equipment used in Nationals is Hugo's stuff... but not 100% sure. As for "pro" status in Canada, I was under the impression that we don't have any pros as we don't really have a governing body officially although CFSA is working towards it.

No needs for pro cards in Canada. The US is the only country in the world that uses them. Perhaps it works out well since they probably have more competitors than could possibly be managed otherwise.

Oh and the CFSA is the governing body in Canada.

[MarshallWhite]

Who is on the comittee? I hope the events get released soon since the show is so close right now. I understand your "pro" thing....though, how is it decided if you are good enough to do a "high level" show? Can anyone just walk into the Westerns (Canadians only I know :D ) and compete? How can the Nationals be put into another place?...I would love to be able to cross to watch more high level Canadian shows. Is there any other "cup" besides quebec's? I know this is a lot of questions but I am very interested in seeing how other countries run and manage their strongmen.

As for American pros I think you hit it on the head...we have so many competitors that if you didn't have some sort of "status" to be able to do high level shows (i.e. ASC shows) you would have 50 guys show up at a show (for the money probably) and only 2-3 would be worthy of the weights, etc.

Stu- Why won't you finish top 3? Will you try to do another qualifier?

Thanks guys!

[Jesse Snadden]

Who is on the comittee?

Honestly I never bothered asking. I know Mark Lauzon, the head judge, has a big say. I've never met a fairer judge! He actually judged with Douglas Edmunds at a WSM.

I hope the events get released soon since the show is so close right now

I'll call around and see if the events are known yet. I doubt it. I always share them as quickly as I can. I also often get e-mails from other athletes asking questions about the equipment as it's typically the same as in the Quebec cup.


how is it decided if you are good enough to do a "high level" show?

Like pretty much any other sport. You can't go compete abroad until you've proven yourself against the guys in your own country first. So it depends on your performance at Nationals.

So Generally CSM has first choice. Then it goes down from there. Jessen and LP Jean did Mohegan Sun. For Venice Beach, Christian Savoie would have been up next; however the poor guy can't speak or understand a word in English. When we competed at the 2005 Edmonton USS, I had to translate everything he said and everything said to him. It was exhausting to say the least.

Can anyone just walk into the Westerns (Canadians only I know) and compete?

The qualifiers (Western, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantics) are open competitions for people who reside in those area's only. I can't compete at the Ontario qualifier nor the Atlantics one. The CFSA does plan on revamping the whole structure and invite a larger number per area and run heats. Hopefully next year but it depends on the $$$$$$.

Generally, we run a 3-4 event qualifier to cut down the competitors from whatever number they are down to 12 for the next day. For the finals, the points go back to zero and we have a 5 event contest to decide who will go to Nationals. In Quebec and Ontario it's typical to see anywhere from 25-35 competitors show up. Last year for the Western qualifier (including BC, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan) only had 9 competitors show up. Obviously a qualifying set of events for their provincial qualifier isn't necessary.

Each province is responsible for running their own qualifier; however, the events need to be approved by the CFSA ahead of time in order to ensure it's fair and that the best do get through.

How can the Nationals be put into another place?

It's possible for sure. Like I said it was held in North Bay, Ontario in 2002. It would need to be discussed with Hugo. If someone can get a suitable venue, come up with enough prize money (it has to be at least a certain amount), cover hotel and flight costs etc... then for sure it could be negotiated. I'm not the one to negotiate this with though.

2001 - Held in Dolbeau-Mistassini where we have had some very popular World Muscle Power contests with the top guys, including Samuelson, Pudz, Virastiuk, Savickas etc... Samuelsson would say that the WMP in Quebec was his favorite contest. roughly 8000 spectators

2002- North Bay

2003 - Held in Louis Cyr's city. Borrowed his dumbells for one of the event from the Louis Cyr museum. That was a cool location in principle, it wasn't as big as some would have liked. The events were really cool though. Nevertheless it was an important year, we managed to send 3 Canadians to WSM. That was a first. All 3 made the finals. Hugo, Jessen Paulin and Geoff Dolan. Dominic Filiou pulled out do to heart complications and Travis Lyndon dislocated his shoulder during the dumbell press.

2004-2006 - Held at the Gatineau Air Baloon festival which was typically a international show with roughly 6-8 Canadians, a few from USA and sometimes abroad. 6000-8000 spectators a day. 2004 was a year where the competitors were very balanced across the nation. However in 2005 the split happened, Geoff Dolan from the west left with IFSA, Ryan Green and Jamie Azmies from Ontario retired, Brad Carty from the Atlantics who came 5th wasn't seen again (presumed originally hoping to get an IFSA contract).

I think Canada was at it's best nation wide in 2003-2004.
However things are picking back up. Scott Cummine and Chris Colonvale from the west are really comming up. Grant Conners replaced Brad Carty. Ontario is still dragging a bit but if Joey Montgomery trains hard he could be very good. Quebec has always been tough.

Is there any other "cup" besides quebec's?

No. Hugo's wife Nadine runs the Quebec cup. Hugo tried to organize one in Ontario a few years ago but the promoters were dropping out. I think some guys in the West tried to organize one but some issues came up. I think one of them being Robin Wright deciding to break off and organize a Canadian IFSA affiliate instead of helping run shows for the western athletes was one of them.

There was talk a year or two ago about having a National Cup. I think money as always holds back a ton of great idea's the CFSA has.

I know this is a lot of questions but I am very interested in seeing how other countries run and manage their strongmen.

Glad to help. I'm surprised Grant Buhr hasn't pitched in, he is very much involved with the CFSA.

[Jesse Snadden]

I'll explain what the Quebec cup is...

It's a series of 5 invite only high level contests between the top guys in Quebec. After the 5 contests a champion is crowned by combining the total points of the athletes throughout the 5 shows. We might end up having more than 5.

Prize money is good, hotel and food is covered. The athletes need to provide pictures when asked before the season starts so that they can have 1000 professional strongman stat/bio cards done for them (kids love these). We also get a pair of brand new New Balance shoes fit to our size, a track suit with our Last Name written across the back, t-shirts etc....

In November we run a Gala and all the athletes get together, in formal attire and discuss the future of the sport in the cup, get trophies for things like best rookie, best showman, biggest star for certain shows etc... The grand winner get his trophie and a monetary gift. We often get free supplements too and are entertained by a comedian.

It gets better every year. We even have some American athletes inquiring if they can participate. For now the the door is closed to Quebec Athletes.

In fact my next one is this week-end.

[Jesse Snadden]

If your concerned about the events at Nationals for Matt Parkes, it's always pretty much a standard format.

Most likely 8 events split in two days.

In no order

1 Pressing event (Viking reps | Axle reps or max | Log reps, max or medley)
Atlas Stones
Squat or Deadlift for reps
1 Medley (usually the last event)

2 grip events (farmers walk, hercules hold, wheel barrow or car wheelbarrow)
1 Truck pull event (arm over arm or harness and rope)
1 extra event (could be a form of loading event with akward objects or maybe a super yoke ...)

[Jesse Marunde]

thanks for the lengthy responses Jesse. Good info. Good Q's mdub

[MarshallWhite]

I absolutely love doing Canadian shows!! And your making me jealous telling me about some of the stuff you guys get....every canadian show I've ever done has always had good money, all kinds of Schwag (Kamloops had about $100 in supps, 2 shirts, and a wicked cool hat) and I think Canadian chicks are into strongman more! Hahahahahahahaha! Anywho, I would like to see the orginization that Quebec has spread to the rest of the country and possibly even some sort of alliance with ASC! Most americans haven't competed in Canada, so I don't think they know what they are missing! Would Hugo, you, Jessen, etc. be open to the ASC alliance idea? If so how can we make that happen? It would be cool if we had Canadian and American Nationals and a North American Championship!!!!! Or a Canada vs. America show! I think if this happened it would spread the talent out a bit and would recruit some relatively "unknown" canadians into this sport.

Anyone that is reading this...Canadian or American....please chime in with how you feel about this...do you want to compete in Canada openly? Do you want what we have in America to spread North? Let's hear it guys!

[Jesse Snadden]

I really highly doubt anything will ever be agreed upon between CFSA and ASC.

Reason:

ASC is heavily aligned with IFSA.

Sorry to burst your bubble. But that doesn't mean a Canada vs US kind of thing can't happen.

[Stu Christensen]

Stu- Why won't you finish top 3? Will you try to do another qualifier?


To be totally honest and straight forward... I'm not strong enough and am still learning. I am there mostly to provide backing for a couple of Western guys that I know and train with, and will do my best to put up a good fight in the events. I don't have much competition experience and am hoping to gain more confidence and learn more technique etc in the next few years. I'm a small guy still... 5'11" 240lbs, and would be better suited to the 105's but 105 contests here in Canada are literally NON-EXISTENT. So, I'm forced into competing with guys who are much taller than me and have 40-50lb on me.

My thoughts on strongman in North America. The US is FAR FAR ahead of Canada in the level and amount of atheletes it produces. Put it this way... Westerns (the western canada quialifier for Nationals) is being held in 10 days. There are 13 guys going as of today... and I personally know 11 of them... because that is how small our competitor base is. There is no qualifier needed because we all know each other so well, that we won't enter a competition we don't think we're ready for and everyone else knows if we're entering a competition that we're not ready for. Seriously, I would say that there are 20 guys in Western Canada that are serious about strongman... maybe 30 tops. Western Canada is like 1/3 of the land mass of the US. See what I mean... we just don't have the base of competitors here...lol.

[Grant Buhr]

I'm surprised Grant Buhr hasn't pitched in, he is very much involved with the CFSA.

lol...some of us are BUSY at work!! ;)

:LOL:

I believe that there may be another Canada vs USA competition in the works for the Gatineau Balloon Festival this year (Sep).

As for an alliance...I've spoken with both Dione and Hugo on the topic -- at length -- and it doesn't look good. However, with the kind of resources and sponsors that the ASC must have, there must be a good number of high-quality shows in the US for you to compete against your fellow US pros.

[Jesse Snadden]

lol...some of us are BUSY at work!!

Hey, some of us work at a computer all day... it's called multi-tasking. :LOL:


The US is FAR FAR ahead of Canada in the level and amount of atheletes it produces.

It used to be the other way around heheh.

We lost so many great competitors in the last two years. Ryan Green, Jamie Azmies, Travis Lyndon, Geoff Dolan, Brad Provick (injured), Brad Carty....

For sure we can't match the quantity, we only have 10% of their population... but I am confident that Canada will get back up there soon. The new generation is on it's way, but it may take a few more years for it to blossom. There was a time Canada was ranked #2 just behind Poland... just a few years ago too...

[MarshallWhite]

lol...some of us are BUSY at work!! ;)

:LOL:

I believe that there may be another Canada vs USA competition in the works for the Gatineau Balloon Festival this year (Sep).

As for an alliance...I've spoken with both Dione and Hugo on the topic -- at length -- and it doesn't look good. However, with the kind of resources and sponsors that the ASC must have, there must be a good number of high-quality shows in the US for you to compete against your fellow US pros.
Obviously there are US shows I can do....but I am talking about spreading what we have in America up towards you guys! How can a person do this USA v Canada show?
What does the CFSA have against IFSA? Surely it is better to be aligned with IFSA than none at all right? And I know that ASC is aligned with IFSA but Dione has never treated the WSMSS athletes any different, especially when it came to competing in the states, I don't see her demanding the CFSA align itself with IFSA just to from some kind of North American relationship....the whole IFSA v WSMSS thing is soley the decision of the athlete anyways!

[Grant Buhr]

Surely it is better to be aligned with IFSA than none at all right?

Why? The top Canadians still get invited to the big show.


What does the CFSA have against IFSA

Simply put, IFSA wanted more than they deserved. They also had an opportunity to get another foothold in Canada, but they totally abandoned Robin Wright.


I am talking about spreading what we have in America up towards you guys!

OK, cool -- much appreciated...but that's pretty general. What exactly are you bringing to the table?

As for the North Americans, I wouldn't presume to speak for Hugo, but if & when it happens, it would undoubtably be an invitation-only contest...and it would certainly NOT be an IFSA show. That may or may not pose a problem for the American IFSA athletes.

[Mike Landrich]

Anyone that is reading this...Canadian or American....please chime in with how you feel about this...do you want to compete in Canada openly? Do you want what we have in America to spread North? Let's hear it guys!

I'm lucky I live near the border. I have competed as much in Canada as in the States. There may be the sanctioning body there that we have, but the quality of the athletes in terrific, at least in Ontario and Quebec. There are far more competitions across the border. I think more of us should compete in Canada and I welcome Canadians competing here. Just my 2 cents' worth..

[MarshallWhite]

Why? The top Canadians still get invited to the big show..

True but let's be honest...how are they placing? Pretty low, no offense but there is just not much high level competition in Canada.


Simply put, IFSA wanted more than they deserved. They also had an opportunity to get another foothold in Canada, but they totally abandoned Robin Wright..

Yeah they do that sometimes! Hahahahahaha! But again I'm not talking IFSA, I'm talking ASC.


OK, cool -- much appreciated...but that's pretty general. What exactly are you bringing to
the table?.

Well, look at the depth we as american strongmen have to offer, I think that competing with our top guys...or even some of the Ams would FORCE Canadian strongmen to become better...also we have a great system of organization across our WHOLE country, maybe we can share this with ya'll, and ya'll can show us how it is you guys come up with the money to pay even lower level athletes and give them cool as hell stuff at shows! :LOL:

As for the North Americans, I wouldn't presume to speak for Hugo, but if & when it happens, it would undoubtably be an invitation-only contest...and it would certainly NOT be an IFSA show. That may or may not pose a problem for the American IFSA athletes.
If it does happen I want it to be known that I would love to do the show!!!

[Jamie McEwan]

At least at the amatuer level, I would love to see some NAS shows in Canada. Being in university and traveling to St. Louis, for example, is really tough. Even getting the time to go to a place like WA is hard, even though I'd love to.

It is, after all, "NA"S Inc., right? I'd like to see it become truly North American. More NAS shows in Canada would improve the quality of Canadian competitors by far, open doors to interconnect both Canada and America, and lead to better Canadians eventually competing at the 'pro' nationals in Gatineau.

This doesn't mean there has to be some sort of IFSA/CFSA marriage. Not at all. But it would benefit both sides so see a more solidified Canadian feeder system. Otherwise a lot of guys will never get into the sport, or leave to get their background elsewhere. I can assure you that once I'm done university in '08, I'm making the effort to do more NAS shows because, as Marshall said, it'll force me to get better.

[Mike Landrich]

True but let's be honest...how are they placing? Pretty low, no offense but there is just not much high level competition in Canada.



How many Candians were in the final 10 at the IFSA finals a couple of years ago? I believe there were in the final 10. We had none. These things are cyclical. I saw Mike Bade, bet you never heard of him though, beat Steve MacDonald at Wise Wellness, a local show in PA, in 2004. They're not as well known, but they are there.

[Grant Buhr]

let's be honest...how are they placing? Pretty low, no offense but there is just not much high level competition in Canada.

Admitted, Canadians did not have a good showing -- in 2006. However, looking at the years prior to last, we have always had at least one athlete in the top 10...once, we even had three.

In our entire country, we have only 80 athletes (from a population of 30 million) who bother to compete at our open provincial competitions. Out of those 80, there are perhaps 12 - 15 who are capable of competing at a higher level. Strongman just isn't that popular here. Hockey is the sport of choice for most Canadians.

Jamie, we don't have the athlete base to support the NASS-type of system. We do have fewer competitions, but they are well-run and can offer better prizes -- simply because they are somewhat of a novelty, so sponsors can lend their support knowing that attention will be attracted to their product.

Marshall, you are correct -- competing with other top athletes is never a bad thing. I can see a great competition -- with Hugo, L-P, Jessen, Dominic, Grant Connors and Christian Savoie (the top 6 at a recent competition on the east coast) vs. Derek, Nick, Van, Steve, Tom and Brian Shaw (your top six from nationals).

I have more thoughts, but they will have to wait until I'm home from work. I'll let Jesse take over now...lol

[darrenmallette]

A bright light for the sport a couple weeks ago Grant - we were training outside, the night of one of the Senators playoff games. 4 kids, about 10-12 years old came by and started watching. They asked a bunch of questions, then, they wanted to try the tire flip, and to lift the axle. We coached them, then with 2 kids per side, they were able to flip the 350 tire. One of the boys said he'd rather be out doing this, than watching the game! So hopefully a new crew of strongmen in a few years!

Jesse - do you have a web link for the Quebec Cup schedule?

thanks.

[Corey DuCharme]

Strongman just isn't that popular here. Hockey is the sport of choice for most Canadians.

Almost every school in America offers Football, Basketball, Baseball, Wrestling, Track and Field and Soccer as sports to compete in. Many schools have Hockey, Golf, Tennis, Swimming, Lacrosse and various other competitive sports available. There are also many club teams available in these sports. Professional careers in most of these sports pay a ridiculous amount of money.

Our attention is divided here as well, but the sport of strongman keeps growing. Given some time and energy, you guys will catch up.

For the record, when I tell people I compete in strongman contests, the majority of them still think I mean tough man contests. (amateur boxing)

[Jesse Snadden]

but I am talking about spreading what we have in America up towards you guys!

What does the USA have the Canada doesn't? Seriously? When you go Pro... what shows in the USA can you do (non IFSA and non WSMSS)? I see St Pats and Fit Expo... what else? We have a good thing going on here. If we can secure more funding, it will be of envy and that I can sure of.

What does the CFSA have against IFSA?

Let's just say that the CFSA wants nothing to do with IFSA. I won't go into reasons, ask Hugo when you see him. This is off topic anyways.

Surely it is better to be aligned with IFSA than none at all right?

The CFSA sends it's athletes to WSMSS and WSM. I don't see the problem.

And I know that ASC is aligned with IFSA but Dione has never treated the WSMSS athletes any different,

Still, the ASC is effectively IFSA-USA. There are no links of graphics on the site for WSMSS or anything else.

True but let's be honest...how are they placing? Pretty low, no offense but there is just not much high level competition in Canada.

And your basing this comment off what? Mohegan Sun? Jessen Paulin always peaks very late in the season. I guarantee he won't be the same guy the next time you see him this season. It was also LP Jean's first international show and he made a lot of mistakes. I see and compete with him all the time. He will be big. We also have Christian Savoie whom you haven't met yet who is very solid. Not to mention Hugo Girard is returning this year and Dominic Filiou who secured a 3rd place at WSM 2005 and barely missed the finals last year (with rediculous events like running in water with barrels).

Yeah they do that sometimes! Hahahahahaha! But again I'm not talking IFSA, I'm talking ASC.

And ASC is IFSA-USA. Sorry but I don't see anything being agreed upon by either side in the near future.

Well, look at the depth we as american strongmen have to offer, I think that
competing with our top guys...or even some of the Ams would FORCE Canadian
strongmen to become better...also we have a great system of organization across our
WHOLE country, maybe we can share this with ya'll, and ya'll can show us how it
is you guys come up with the money to pay even lower level athletes and give them
cool as hell stuff at shows!

Marshall, I don't see anything here that is of advantage to Canada... Sorry but it's true. We have a lot of good shows here and we are doing great. Now if WSMSS wouldn't invite so many USA athletes (Venice had 13 our of 16 athletes???) and give other countries more shots... then perhaps things would be a little different. Our athletes could certainly use more shots at the international shows to build up more experience and I guarantee none would come out as embarassing.

Don't forget that it was just a few years ago that USA couldn't get an athlete in the WSM finals (2003). They've come a long way for sure, but all I see in that comment is trying to blow some hot air down our throats. Your making a lot of boastfull claims and offers but nothing with any substance. As I said, we have had a bunch of fantastic competitors drop out in the last 2 years and it's weakened us. We just need a bit of time to build up our next generation.

If you want my opinion. You need another federation (not ASC) to manage the WSMSS athletes and organize shows for them. Then some USA and Canada agreements would probably come out of it. Until then, well for the time beign it's too bad, so sad.

Marshall, you are correct -- competing with other top athletes is never a bad thing. I can see a great competition -- with Hugo, L-P, Jessen, Dominic, Grant Connors and Christian Savoie (the top 6 at a recent competition on the east coast) vs. Derek, Nick, Van, Steve, Tom and Brian Shaw (your top six from nationals).

Never going to happen that way Grant. Those are IFSA athletes. Likely invites would be WSMSS athletes like Nee, Marunde, Philippi etc...

Jesse - do you have a web link for the Quebec Cup schedule?

http://www.hommesfortsquebec.com/

[Stu Christensen]

Grant is right, we literally maybe have 80 athletes across the entire country. Some like me, who do it for fun right now, knowing I won't win anything. But I'm here to support the sport, train hard, and compete and do the best I can in each show I do. I know I'm not going to beat most guys in a show, but I'm there to push myself and push them to do their best.

I am helping promote a show in my hometown this summer in conjunction with a local festival. The festival comittee specifically asked to keep it an all Canadian show. And not to sound bad, and don't take this the wrong way, but why would we invite Pro US guys to come up here and compete and take the money back across the border?? Competing against high level guys, in my opinion, doesn't do jack compared to TRAINING with high level guys.

Almost all of the shows held in Canada aren't sanctioned by a governing body. Not CFSA or anything... we put on the shows in order to give the guys a place to compete, and a good shot at money. The show I'm helping promote is a first time show here, and there will be $4500 in prize money - its a two day show, 8 events, and probably one of the heaviest contests held this year in Western Canada. We had interest from a few US guys, but for this contest, we kept it to Canadian guys - by request of the Committee and for our own sake.

I sort of agree with Jesse, I really don't see what having US guys come and compete in our shows would do right now. Maybe I'm missing something and Marshall can elaborate on things. I will say this though, I'm looking forward to Matt Parkes coming out to Westerns next weekend - I've heard a lot about him, and it will be good to see him in action (and "compete" against him).

And just so that you know, although there are 13-14 guys competing in Westerns next weekend... it will really be a 4 man race... hands down. So that shows just how things are here. The East (Quebec) has A LOT of strong guys, and that doesn't come from competiting against high level guys, it comes from training with high level guys. See my point?

[Dave Ostlund]

We also have Christian Savoie whom you haven't met yet who is very solid.



I met Christian in Venice Beach. He seemed like a very nice guy but I don't think he spoke much English and I speak next to zero French.

He looked strong especially on the Farmer's walk. He went head to head with Mark Phillipi and they had a good battle going back and forth.

For the record, every competition I've ever done in Canada has been excellent and had good prize money.

[Jesse Snadden]

Christian Savoie competed at Venice Beach? I didn't know. Why is it impossible to see the full results anywhere on the net????

Dave, do you know how he did overall? He is very solid on farmers walk.

[Dave Ostlund]

Jesse posted the results in his write-up: http://www.marunde-muscle.com/forum/showthread.php?p=122637#post122637

They're about halfway down the page.

[Kevin Cronin]

In our entire country, we have only 80 athletes (from a population of 30 million) who bother to compete at our open provincial competitions. Out of those 80, there are perhaps 12 - 15 who are capable of competing at a higher level. Strongman just isn't that popular here. Hockey is the sport of choice for most Canadians.



I wonder if the proportions here are any different. I believe teh US population is ~300 million, does NAS have 800 athletes? I really dont know about this, anyone know teh number of athletes nationwide?

[MarshallWhite]

Jesse- Right now IFSA has the better athletes (just being honest) and the reason that they are better is because they have to compete at a much higher level. If America and Canada were to align then you guys would have the opportunity to compete with the likes of VAn, Poundstone, Ortmayer, etc ( I know that they are IFSA, but they are ASC first which means they can compete in a show that was some sort of ASC and Canadian). And you are way off base if you think any of your athletes (with the exception of possibly Hugo) would come even close to those guys. You are right about there being a lack of shows for American pros this year but in '06 we had Utah, Hawaii, Wisconsin, Indiana, etc. It's possible that the reason America has improved so much is that our WSMSS athletes have to compete with IFSA guys!

Stu- This is my point...you tell me that you don't want the Americans competing because they will take all the money! If your guys knew the Americans were coming then they might get motivated to get better and win their own shows instead of the "I'm competing against some of my friends I know I can beat" attitude. Training with these guys shows you where you are at...competing with them gives you motivation!

I want to make it clear that I am not slamming Canadian athletes I think you guys are awesome but I have been to so many Canadian shows where there was an amazing amount of potential, but the guys needed some sort of motivation/system to improve themselves, and I think a merger would offer that.

[Ryan Brown]

I wonder if the proportions here are any different. I believe teh US population is ~300 million, does NAS have 800 athletes? I really dont know about this, anyone know teh number of athletes nationwide?

depends on what you mean by athletes, but if you count everyone who does even one show I think the number is much higher--like several thousand, but I am working off old data. But still a very low number relative to the population--essentially not much different than Canada in terms of statistical interest. But Marshall is right--if you didn't have some system for pros here, you would have a bunch of guys showing up doing stuff they shouldn't be doing. Also, the idea of having the chance to win a "pro card" even if it doesn't mean you will be making a living with it is a cool concept I think. I think the Am Canadians would like it.

[Jesse Snadden]

Jesse- Right now IFSA has the better athletes (just being honest) and the reason that they are better is because they have to compete at a much higher level.

I didn't debate that and it's totally off topic.

If America and Canada were to align then you guys would have the opportunity to compete with the likes of VAn, Poundstone, Ortmayer, etc ( I know that they are IFSA, but they are ASC first which means they can compete in a show that was some sort of ASC and Canadian).

Not going to happen. Listen Marshall, why don't you take this up with Dionne? It's like your comming here telling us we are the road block to your idea's. We are the Canadians with our heads up our asses. Have you see the Gatineau Air Baloon shows? The World Muscle Powers that were run here? Have you see a Quebec cup contest? Our Nationals? I'm guessing it's a resounding no to all of those. You should inform yourself with the head of ASC and CFSA before throwing out judgements.

I know what your saying, but it's not politically possible right now and It's not my place to say why or make these decisions.

And you are way off base if you think any of your athletes (with the exception of possibly Hugo) would come even close to those guys.

This is the kind of attitude your projecting a lot. Frankly it's starting to be offensive. I don't know you personally but I'm not getting good vibes from your posts. To come out on a public forum and say something like that is disrepectfull.

Stu- This is my point...you tell me that you don't want the Americans competing because they will take all the money! If your guys knew the Americans were coming then they might get motivated to get better and win their own shows instead of the "I'm competing against some of my friends I know I can beat" attitude. Training with these guys shows you where you are at...competing with them gives you motivation!

Again your making it sound like we are terrible at the sport. What are you basing that idea off? I really doubt you would make these assumptions at a Quebec cup or some other high level Canadian show against our best... things get different when you compete on our turf.

As for the "stealing our money view" I'm not in agreement with that part. Just so you know.

I want to make it clear that I am not slamming Canadian athletes

To be honest, I don't see any other message in this entire thread other than to say "We should compete in Canada and show you Canadians a thing or two". Take a step back and re-read the thread from a switched perspective. I'd probably be banned or flamed to death if I came here telling the USA to pull up it's socks.

Now maybe (I hope) somehow you do honestly care but you certainly are lacking any knowledge of the big picture. You've competed a few times with Matt Parkes and did one and only one show against Jessen and LP Jean. Your bringing out a lot of points (with little substance), yet it clearly shows none of them have been discussed with either Dionne nor Hugo because your far from up to date in the state of affairs. It was just a few weeks ago that you were throwing accusations that Quebec wants to keep the sport to itself.

If you really want to see something move in this direction, you'll need to take it up with ASC and CFSA. This forum won't get anything done. It really isn't the place to bring these idea's up.

Now getting your events for a contest and dates etc... that I can help you with. Mentioning your name to someone in regards to a possible Canada vs USA in September at the air baloon festival... that I can do too, but no promises can be made on my part that you'll get invited.

[MarshallWhite]

I didn't debate that and it's totally off topic.



Not going to happen. Listen Marshall, why don't you take this up with Dionne? It's like your comming here telling us we are the road block to your idea's. We are the Canadians with our heads up our asses. Have you see the Gatineau Air Baloon shows? The World Muscle Powers that were run here? Have you see a Quebec cup contest? Our Nationals? I'm guessing it's a resounding no to all of those. You should inform yourself with the head of ASC and CFSA before throwing out judgements.

I know what your saying, but it's not politically possible right now and It's not my place to say why or make these decisions.



This is the kind of attitude your projecting a lot. Frankly it's starting to be offensive. I don't know you personally but I'm not getting good vibes from your posts. To come out on a public forum and say something like that is disrepectfull.



Again your making it sound like we are terrible at the sport. What are you basing that idea off? I really doubt you would make these assumptions at a Quebec cup or some other high level Canadian show against our best... things get different when you compete on our turf.

As for the "stealing our money view" I'm not in agreement with that part. Just so you know.



To be honest, I don't see any other message in this entire thread other than to say "We should compete in Canada and show you Canadians a thing or two". Take a step back and re-read the thread from a switched perspective. I'd probably be banned or flamed to death if I came here telling the USA to pull up it's socks.

Now maybe (I hope) somehow you do honestly care but you certainly are lacking any knowledge of the big picture. You've competed a few times with Matt Parkes and did one and only one show against Jessen and LP Jean. Your bringing out a lot of points (with little substance), yet it clearly shows none of them have been discussed with either Dionne nor Hugo because your far from up to date in the state of affairs. It was just a few weeks ago that you were throwing accusations that Quebec wants to keep the sport to itself.

If you really want to see something move in this direction, you'll need to take it up with ASC and CFSA. This forum won't get anything done. It really isn't the place to bring these idea's up.

Now getting your events for a contest and dates etc... that I can help you with. Mentioning your name to someone in regards to a possible Canada vs USA in September at the air baloon festival... that I can do too, but no promises can be made on my part that you'll get invited.
Stop getting so offended! I am a WSMSS athlete and I clearly made the point that my competitors have the better athletes ( I think most WSMSS guys would agree that IFSA is a bit of higher level)....everyone is good on their "home turf" with their equipment! The reason I am bringing this up on a public forum is to see if there is any interest in it...the idea would be useless if there was no support of it from fellow competitors. Again I will say I think we have a lot to gain FROM EACH OTHER you guys do a great job of running shows the way they should be run and we have a great system of organization that lends itself to creating better athletes. I am NOT downplaying Canadian athletes I am just saying that as of right now Canada DOES NOT have the depth America has, and that if we all competed together that could possibly be rectified, as well as America learning a thing or two. If IFSA came to WSMSS and said "Let's all compete together....it will make your athletes better due to the high level of competition, and we will learn how to put on a good for t.v., very entertaining show!" I think we would be all over that! It's the same deal with Canada and the U.S. I'm sorry if you are getting offended (that was not my intention) but I am speaking the truth.

[Mike Landrich]

Here's an idea. 2 pros from each country (Marshall and another from the States vs Jesse and another from Canada) as a demonstration at my show July 21, just 45 minutes from the border. A lot of fans from each country could easily make the drive. Unknown events until the competition starts. True test of overall ability.

[Jesse Snadden]

Well I think your best bet now is to just talk to the ones that CAN (Dionne and Hugo) make it happen and see what they say. I'd be willing to bet a large sum that the CFSA will not work with ASC.

I don't have anything else to add. Sorry.

[Jesse Snadden]

Here's an idea. 2 pros from each country (Marshall and another from the States vs Jesse and another from Canada) as a demonstration at my show July 21, just 45 minutes from the border. A lot of fans from each country could easily make the drive. Unknown events until the competition starts. True test of overall ability.

:LOL: :LOL: I have my Provincial Qualifier on that date. Well actually it's the 19th and 20th... but the 21st and 22nd I have a Quebec cup to do.... 4 days of competing :disgust:

[Stu Christensen]

Stu- This is my point...you tell me that you don't want the Americans competing because they will take all the money! If your guys knew the Americans were coming then they might get motivated to get better and win their own shows instead of the "I'm competing against some of my friends I know I can beat" attitude. Training with these guys shows you where you are at...competing with them gives you motivation!

I see what you're saying... makes sense. I think I didn't make myself clear on the money point though... not sure if I can either... but we hold local comps to keep the money and prizes local. It's great to have higher level competitors, whether they are homegrown or imports, but when we have such few chances to compete as it is, we'd like to keep some of those resources going to our own guys to keep them going in the sport. We want a good turn out and solid competitors - right now the East in Canada is largely better than the West... and I say that simply because it's true. The West is so spread out, that you have to fly to compete in anything big. From where Matt Parkes lives, to where I live, is probably a 24 hour drive... and we're in the same "zone" for qualifying for Canadians. That means there is 1 comeptition for all of us to qualify. There just simply isn't a dense enough population to hold comps every weekend like NAS does. I think in Western Canada, if you were to compete in EVERY competition, you would probably do 12 comps - and that is for the entire season. Most likely at least 8 of those, if not more, you'd have to fly to.

It just doesn't make financial sense as a "hobby" (as FEW make a living off of this) to be travelling and spending that kind of money to compete. So... guys only have 3-4 chances to compete a year. That's just how it is.

[MarshallWhite]

Here's an idea. 2 pros from each country (Marshall and another from the States vs Jesse and another from Canada) as a demonstration at my show July 21, just 45 minutes from the border. A lot of fans from each country could easily make the drive. Unknown events until the competition starts. True test of overall ability.
I will be doing Saanich Sunfest that day but I am ALWAYS down for a challenge!!! Set it up another day and I will definitely show! Do I get to pick my partner?

[Jamie McEwan]

Almost all of the shows held in Canada aren't sanctioned by a governing body. Not CFSA or anything... we put on the shows in order to give the guys a place to compete, and a good shot at money. The show I'm helping promote is a first time show here, and there will be $4500 in prize money - its a two day show, 8 events, and probably one of the heaviest contests held this year in Western Canada. We had interest from a few US guys, but for this contest, we kept it to Canadian guys - by request of the Committee and for our own sake.

Not to go off track, Stu, but when and where is this? PM me if you'd like.
Thanks man! :)