Dr. Hermann Korte from Choice of Champions is building on the success of his grip contests in Germany and is developing ideas for future competitions.

"The annual German 'Griffkraftmeisterschaft' took place in the new facilities of Choice of Champions in Haltern on the 29th of October 2005," Dr. Korte reported. "There were 14 contestants and Theo Burggraaff from the Netherlands also tested the strength of his hands. Along with the Rolling Thunder Nationals, four events took place."

"The Pinch Grip Block was dominated by Thomas Becker, Strap Holds for time with a Captains of Crush® Grippers No. 1, 2 or 3 were won by Florian Kellersmann. Martin Ressel, who also won the Choice of Champions Rolling Thunder Nationals, pulled a National Record (170 kg/375 lb.) at the Two-Hand Deadlift with the Apollon's Axle. Gerrit Reubold and Burckhard Macht placed first in the Vertical Bar Lift."

"Florian Kellersmann won the event overall with a close second place of Frank Henritzi."

Looking to the future, Dr. Korte told IronMind®, "We are planning something like a grip barbecue in about May. It might have a little contest including items that usually are not used for contests, like the Little Big Horn or a newcomer grip contest. It might also include an armwrestling seminar. We do not know this exactly so far. I want to get away from this four attempts per movement, left and right, multi-exercise, long-hour contest and move to something that's a little more fun and gives the athletes some time to come together and exchange ideas."