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John Gibb crowned Britain’s strongest stone lifter for 2024
In a thrilling competition held at Boreland Farm near Loch Tay, John Gibb has been named Britain’s Strongest Stone Lifter for 2024. This achievement comes after four years of rigorous training and dedication, culminating in a remarkable performance against top competitors from the UK and a guest from France.
The event, which took place on a Sunday, was not without its challenges.
Competitors faced the wrath of Storm Ashley, which added an extra layer of difficulty to the outdoor competition that ran from 10 AM to 5:30 PM. Despite the adverse weather conditions, Gibb maintained a strong position throughout the five events, never dropping below third place. His resilience and determination were evident as he lifted the legendary Dinnie Stones, becoming the 157th person to do so.
Gibb’s journey into stone lifting began as a New Year’s resolution, inspired by his late brother, Norman, who had a deep passion for the Dinnie Stones. Tragically, Norman passed away in a car accident nearly 20 years ago. In a heartfelt tribute, Gibb decided to honor his brother’s memory by attempting to lift the stones. “The day that I lifted them was really emotional,” he shared, reflecting on the significance of this achievement.
Family support has been a cornerstone of Gibb’s success. His wife, Vikki, and their four sons have all embraced the sport, with even the youngest, Lawson, training alongside him since he was just one year old. Gibb expressed his desire to make his family proud, stating, “I couldn’t do it without them.” The strongman community in his region has also played a vital role, fostering friendships and camaraderie among lifters.
Gibb’s training routine is intense, consisting of three sessions a week, with increased frequency leading up to competitions. He emphasizes the importance of nutrition, consuming around 3,000 to 4,000 calories daily to support his training. “What I like to say to people is discipline beats motivation,” he remarked, highlighting the mental fortitude required in the sport.
With the support of sponsors like Cerberus Strength and Maximum Iron, Gibb is well-equipped for future challenges. He recently featured in a documentary about stone lifting available on Amazon Prime, marking a significant milestone in his journey. As he reflects on his achievements, including winning both the Scottish and British championships, Gibb remains enthusiastic about the future, stating, “I’m still buzzing off of it.”
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