An Aberdeenshire man is jetting off to Ukraine this weekend to represent Scotland at the World’s Strongest Junior tournament.
Ronald Young, from Inverurie, qualified earlier this year and has bounced back from injury in time for Saturday’s event.
He has previously won, amongst other accolades, Highland’s Strongest Man, Fraserburgh Strongest Man and Huntly’s Strongest Man – with aspirations of becoming strongest in the country.
Mr Young, who weighs 135kgs, said: “It will be the heaviest competition to date, including running with 400kg on my back and carrying 150kg in each hand.
“Training has been amazing.
“To come back so quickly from a serious injury is all down to the help of my coach, Ryan Glennie.
“We have worked together and built the best version of me yet. One day the title of Scotland’s strongest man will be mine.”
Mr Young, who grew up in Huntly, said it was “no wonder” had quickly become hooked on the sport as his family were friends with Svend Karlsen, a former world’s strongest man.
He said: “it was always tradition to watch World’s Strongest Man every Christmas.
“Following my dad’s love of the Highland Games I took part in a competition in Huntly in 2013 and from then on I’ve become more serious.
“Over the last two years I’ve had a coach and nutritionist on board as well as sponsors, so I’ve been able to push into the top 10 strongest in Scotland.”
When he isn’t training, Mr Young works with his father at Dunnydeer Services as a digger driver.
He hopes to inspire a new generation to get involved in strongman competing, in particular young people at a crossroads.
He said: “The highlight of my career so far is this year winning Scotland’s Strongest Junior Under 23 title and placing ninth in Scotland’s Strongest Man last weekend.
“I want to become an icon to younger generations who might be struggling with other sports or just stuck not knowing what they want.
“Strongman can set a good routine for life as you have to be prepared, organised and be able to motivate yourself.”
To follow his journey go to www.facebook.com/Ron4strong/