Power Stairs, Fingal Fingers, Car Walk

Haddad Riverfront Park, Kanawha Boulevard

The first day of the WSM finals 2008 saw bumper crowds fight their way to the front to get a seat at this long awaited contest and it did not disappoint!

Although the rain continued to threaten, the day went off with a bang! First up was the power stairs which saw the ten finalist attempt the gruelling walk up 15 gigantic steps carrying 225kg in their hands. Mariusz Pudzianowski powered his way to the top with an extremely fast time.

Next up was the car walk, where balance proved to be everything. Some wobbled and struggled to excel at the start while others including Phil Pfister and Sebastian Wenta cruised their way to the finish line with ease.

Last up, the Fingals Fingers and by this stage the points for the top where tight. Phil Pfister was up against Mariusz Pudzianowski in one long awaited battle.... but it seemed the noisy and devoted crowd got behind their local hero and cheered him to victory. Next up was Dave Ostland and Derek Poundstone who were going head to head for first place. The only hindrance was the rain which decided to interrupt proceedings at this very crucial point. Luckily for us, the Mayor was on hand to dry the equipment with his trusty leaf blower dressed in his corperal best.

So on to day two which will see yet again another jam-packed day of strength!