Zydrunas Savickas wins Europe's Strongest Man 2012

Given the phenomenal competitors on show it came as no surprise that this contest more than lived up to expectations. There were numerous highlights, ranging from Savickas’ tenth world best in the log lift and the battle in the deadlift, through to Shahlaei’s blistering frame carry and Bjornsson’s imperious shield walk. Another fact that cannot be stated enough was the involvement of the crowd. Although they were there in the main to support the British competitors, every single athlete, whether British or otherwise, was supported and encouraged throughout by the five thousand who were in attendance. This ensured that the atmosphere was completely electric for the entire duration of the day, and was greatly appreciated by all who competed.

For Big Z, it is another title to add to his vast collection and he has earned himself a ninth trip to World’s Strongest Man. Lalas and Shahlaei will be joining him at WSM, each hoping that they can capture the biggest prize in strongman. Any who may have questioned whether Savickas still has the hunger to continue at the highest level, fourteen years since his WSM debut, got a decisive response at 2012 Europe’s Strongest Man.

Final standings:

Zydrunas Savickas (Lithuania)

Vytautas Lalas (Lithuania)

Laurence Shahlaei (England)

Krzysztof Radzikowski (Poland)

Thor Bjornsson (Iceland)

Ervin Katona (Serbia)

James Fennelly  (Ireland)

Eddie Hall (England)