Cumbria schoolboy ‘shocked’ at strongman victory

Weighing in at 22 and a half stones (142kg), the teenager can deadlift as much as 39.9 stones (254kg).

Speaking on BBC Radio Cumbria after becoming the first Cumbrian to win the national title, he said: “I was speechless, I didn’t think I’d win something like this because I’m new to the sport.

“I’ve only been lifting for 10 weeks, and I went to this competition and I’m just really shocked.

“Obviously I couldn’t have done all of this without my one-to-one coaching with Adam Rumney at the Cumberland Strongman Academy.”

The teen, who attends Netherhall secondary school in Maryport, is now aiming to win more titles, starting with a charity event this month and the Cumberland Strongest Man competition in March.

He is also aiming to compete at the Scotland Strongest Man championships next year.

Mark Bailey, deputy headteacher of Netherhall, said the school is “incredibly proud” of Keenan.

He said: “When I caught up with him the first thing he said was how grateful he was for the support he gets from his mum and dad.

“He’s a hugely impressive young man whose physical stature is matched by his character and commitment to all he undertakes.”