The Rogue Invitational 2023 Strongman Competition Heats Up as Mitchell Hooper Dominates the Yoke Escalator Event
The penultimate event at the 2023 Rogue Invitational Strongman Competition was the Yoke Escalator, a challenge that emphasized speed and tested the athletes’ prowess on the yoke carry. Moments after the strongwomen completed the event, the strongmen took the field, eager to showcase their explosiveness and technical proficiency.
Defending champion Mitchell Hooper, who had maintained consistency through the first four events, entered the Yoke Escalator with the overall lead. However, Hafthor Björnsson and Tom Stoltman were mounting formidable comebacks, determined to claim the crown for themselves.
The Yoke Escalator comprised a 900-pound yoke walk, followed by a trio of power stairs featuring implements weighing 500, 550, and 600 pounds. Hooper’s unparalleled proficiency on the yoke proved to be the decisive factor, as he secured the event win and further solidified his lead in the overall standings.
In the first heat, Thomas Evans emerged victorious, navigating the course in just over 41 seconds. Pavlo Kordiyaka was the only athlete unable to complete the challenge within the time cap. The second heat featured Hooper, Björnsson, Tom Stoltman, Evan Singleton, and Luke Stoltman, and Hooper’s dominance on the yoke was on full display as he claimed the top spot.
“With only one event remaining in the competition, Hooper has all but secured his title defense, showcasing his exceptional strength and technical prowess throughout the Rogue Invitational 2023.”
The Strongman and Strongwoman competition schedule for the remainder of the event is as follows (all times EST):
- Strongwoman Event 6 — 1:45 p.m. — Circus Medley
- Strongman Event 6 — 2:10 p.m. — Circus Medley
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