‘Big Bear’ delighted with top four finish

The event, held in Belfast, saw 12 competitors go head-to-head for the Irish title and a place at Britain’s Strongest Man Giants live.

It was McNaghten’s first show since sustaining a small frature in his spine in February.

Hoping to finish in the top six at the event, which was held in Conway Mill earlier this month, the ‘Big Bear’ exceeded his own expectations with a fourth-place finish.

Among the disciplines, he pressed a 145kg axle, performed a car hold and produced deadlifts of 280kg.

“I was over the moon with my placing,” he said. “It feels great to be back on top again.

“I’ve had long journey back from injury and it means a great deal to me achieving fourth and knowing third was within my grasp.”

The next show for McNaghten is the All-Ireland Deadlift Championships in McNeill Theatre, Larne on February 7.