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Arm Wrestling |
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Wrestler Spotlight |
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Mark MacPhail |
How much longer will you continue to compete?
Until my elbows and shoulders say so.
What has been your most memorable moment?
I have a few. Winning my first National title in 2002 against Luke Remier. The first time I beat Greg Harnish back in 2001 for the overall title. Winning double gold this past year (2006) at Nationals was great.
Who do you look forward to competing against and why?
Locally, right now I would say Greg Harnish and Shawn Ross. Greg has dominated for so long in Nova Scotia and definitely has a winning record against me, but I think I must have 10 wins on him now. Shawn Ross has improved a lot and is a tough competitor.
Who and where were your favorite matches?
The left handed match up against Devon Larrett at the Gloucester Fair. I beat him first match than he beat me followed up by me losing in the final to an elbow foul. All the matches were long fought out battles. They gave me the most Sportsmanlike award after that.
Who do you look up to and why?
Rick Pinkney and Perry Bruhm come to mind for their dedication to our sport and their accomplishments.
Who has been your greatest influence and why?
I don't think there is really one person but a combination of people like Rick and Perry but also guys I got to known like Earl Wilson, Devon Larrett, Sylvain Perron, Dave Hicks and Joyce King.
To what do you attribute your success?
Hard work…. good genes.
What do you need to move up to next level?
Training partners.
What do you do for training?
Table time once a week, lots and lots of weight training, grip work, pulley work you name it I've tried it.
How do you see the future of arm wrestling?
It is growing however slowly. With the drug testing now in place at worlds and junior tournaments allowing kids to compete. I see a bright future.
What changes to the sport would you like to see?
More competitors coming out to the local events. We need big guys!
What do you dislike about arm wrestling?
Nothing but the soreness.
