U.S. Firefighter Named 'World Strongest Man'

Sept. 26, 2006 — -- CHARLESTON, West Virginia (AP) - A firefighter who traveled toChina to compete in the World's Strongest Man competition hasbecome the first American in 24 years to win the title.

A weary Phil Pfister was back at work Tuesday, three days aftercapturing the 10-day competition in Sanya, China.

"I haven't even gotten a good night's sleep yet," Pfistersaid.

The 6-foot-6 (1.95-meter), 325-pound (146-kilogram) Pfisterbested 25 athletes from around the world in events such as buspulls, car pushes, tire turns and stone lifts.

Pfister was in second place behind defending champion MariuszPudzianowski of Poland entering the last day of competition but wonthe last five events. He overtook Pudzianowski in the final event,in which competitors carry stones, some weighing hundreds ofpounds, from one pillar to another.

"None of this has sunken in yet," said Pfister, who arrivedback in West Virginia on Monday morning. "I haven't even gottenback on my feet. I've got a lot of 'thank you's to say."

Arden Cogar, a Charleston attorney and champion professionallumberjack, spent significant time working out with Pfister lastfall and spring, concentrating on building strength in Pfister'storso. That included simple but awkward movements such as walkinglunges.

"To do Strongman, it takes a special person," Cogar said."Those events are so grueling. It's the most physically demandingthing humanly possible. I could not do that."