Unbelievable feats of strength are returning to the Lake Erie shoreline! Shores & Islands Ohio is thrilled to announce that the Strongman Champions League will once again bring its international strength competition back to Ohio, exclusively in the Shores & Islands Ohio region. The competition will take place Labor Day Weekend, September 5-6, in both Ottawa and Erie counties, respectively.
After a hugely successful United States debut in 2025, bringing the Strongman Champions League back to Shores & Islands Ohio was an easy decision. Thousands of spectators lined the waterfront to witness elite athletes push the limits of human strength through unforgettable events, including keg tosses into Sandusky Bay and a record-setting ferry pull. Thanks to continued collaboration between Shores & Islands Ohio, the City of Sandusky, and the Greater Sandusky Partnership, the competition returns in 2026—this time with multiple Guinness World Record attempts planned.
For those unfamiliar, the Strongman Champions League is a globally recognized series featuring elite athletes competing in events across multiple countries each season. Each competition features unique tests of strength and endurance, including massive deadlifts, truck pulls, and the iconic Atlas Stones. All for athletes battling for points toward a coveted berth in the league's World Finals in South Africa.
Best of all, the event is completely free to attend, giving spectators the opportunity to stand just feet from the action as some of the strongest athletes in the world compete. That up-close experience made the 2025 event unforgettable, allowing fans to truly appreciate the power, intensity, and athleticism on display, right before their eyes!
While additional details, including athlete announcements and schedules, will be released in the coming weeks, here's where you can catch the action.
Day 1 will kick off Saturday, September 5thof Labor Day weekend at the Erie-Ottawa International Airport in Port Clinton. Hosted in collaboration with the Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce, Ottawa County Improvement Corporation, and the Liberty Aviation Museum, the Strongman Champions League competition will serve as the featured attraction during the inaugural Rally on the Runway. This free event will feature a one-of-a-kind Touch-a-Truck, a scavenger hunt for prizes, food, beverages, and fun for the entire family. Rally on the Runway is scheduled from 12PM – 5PM with the Strongman competition slated for 1PM – 4PM. We won't spoil every surprise, but don't be shocked if a plane pull is part of the action.
Day 2 will be Sunday, September 6th in downtown Sandusky at the corner of Columbus Avenue and Water Street. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Lake Erie, Sandusky will once again host elite strongmen from around the world as they return to compete in Ohio. Shores & Islands Ohio, the City of Sandusky, and the Greater Sandusky Partnership are proud to once again bring this international competition to north central Ohio.
Mark your calendar for Labor Day Weekend and experience one of the most unique sporting events you'll see all year. Check back often as we'll continue updating this page with athlete announcements, schedules, and event information leading up to the competition.
