An interview with the Strongest Man in the West for 2002 - Jesse Marunde. Jesse also placed 5th at the Men's Pro Nationals in July of 2002, qualifying him for the World's Strongest Man show, to be filmed in Malaysia in September 2002.

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Shawn Smith, Jesse Marunde and Johnny Perry	Jesse on the Harley Conan's Wheel
Photo credit Chuck Marunde

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The level of competion at Nationals this year was really solid. I'm just excited to be going to Malaysia.


NW Strongman: The Nationals was filled with a tough lineup of competitors - the best in the nation - how did you feel going in? Did you tell yourself "I'm going to make top 5" ?

Actually, my main concern was not getting hurt! I injured my left hamstring in training in my last workout before Nationals. I was concerned that I was going to re-injure it. I honestly wasn't sure what was going to happen. I just figured I'd do my best in spite of the set back and leave the rest to Faith.


NW Strongman: Were you nervous going into the show?

Not at all. I like to compete very relaxed. I don't get serious until I hear my name called.


NW Strongman: Any memorable events or stories you'd like to share from the competition?

The owner of the harley that was used for the conan's wheel laid it over after the event. The paint on the blacktop was so slick that he couldn't stop, so he dumped the bike to keep from hitting anyone! Also Chad Smith's squat. He EFFORTLESSLY won that event. The dude's legs are silly strong.


NW Strongman: Was there anything that surprised you about the contest or the competitors?

Nope! I expected everyone to show up strong, fast and ready to go and they did.


NW Strongman: What was your favorite event/least favorite event at the show?

My favorite event, although not my best, has always been the stones. I disliked the squat event at this show because I didn't do as well as I would have liked to!


NW Strongman: How do you feel about going on to the WSM show?

I feel good and strong, and I'm ready.


NW Strongman: Who are you most looking forward to going against on the WSM show? Anyone you look up to?

I'm just going to have fun and lift as well as I can. But I'd also really like to beat National champion Steve Kirit. He's on top, he's the man to beat right now. Steve's an awesome competitor, but the fact that I like him won't slow me down.


NW Strongman: If someone had told you last year, that you would be headed for the WSM show in 2002, would you have believed it? Did you surprise yourself, or was it all part of the plan?

I just put it on the line and see what happens.


NW Strongman: We know that you carry your #3 Captains of Crush grippers with you. Did anyone challenge you to close them this weekend, or did you challenge anyone to close them?

Actually I didn't take the grippers with me. I get too tempted to squeeze em when I get asked to and I've been known to make my hands sore the night before a contest!


NW Strongman: Any closing comments?

Thanks to all my coaches over the years who have helped me get to where I'm at. But most of all I have to thank God and my family, without them I can't imagine what my life would be like. Thanks Tod and Julie for putting up your web site! Hope to see you soon.