The Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has congratulated Rayno Nel, 30, for becoming the first African and the first man from outside Europe and North America to win the prestigious World's Strongest Man title.
“South Africa is beaming with pride as the rookie competitor made history on the global stage over the weekend in Sacramento, United States of America. It was not just a personal victory, but a continental milestone,” the department’s statement read.
As a former Cheetahs rugby player turned world champion strongman, the department said Nel showed the world what South Africans are made of – “grit, determination, and unstoppable courage”.
At the end of 2024, South Africa hosted the Strongman Champions League for the first time, with the vision of someday seeing a South African reach the top of this sport.
“For it to have happened this quickly, however, was a welcome surprise.”
From his Varsity Cup days at Central University of Technology (CUT) to lifting the ultimate title in strength sports, the department stated that Nel’s journey has been one of sheer resilience and national pride.
“His win is a reminder that greatness does not ask for permission, it announces itself. And Rayno, in his rookie season, announced South Africa’s presence in this global sport in the boldest way possible.”
The Minister recalled how Nel, who weighs 148kg and is the first rookie to win the competition since 1997, reached out to him for support in the early stages of his journey in strongman competitions.
“When Rayno approached me, he spoke with humility but had the fire of a champion. I told him then that I would stand behind him. Today, South Africa and the entire African continent celebrate with him.”
The World’s Strongest Man competition is designed to push the strongmen to their absolute limits, challenging not only their physical strength, but their agility and mental toughness too.
Past events have featured several fan-favourite competitions, including the car walk, where the contestants race two-by-two while strapping a vintage VW Beetle to their shoulders and sprinting down a 25-metre course.
Other events have included keg tossing, the axe hold – where competitors must hold a heavy axe or axes in a specific position for as long as possible – and stone lifting.
McKenzie has since saluted Nel for his passion and perseverance.
“To see him raise the South African flag on such a massive platform, and to hear his words of pride for his country, is a moment I, and this nation, will not forget.
“South Africa salutes you,” McKenzie added. – SAnews.gov.za
