Jewish athlete wins European arm wrestling silver after taking on younger rivals

A Jewish athlete has won a silver medal at the International Federation of Arm Wrestling (IFA) European Championships after competing against younger opponents and defeating national champions from across Europe.

Marc Sidney, 63, represented Great Britain at the championships in Codlea, Romania, on 13 June, where he claimed silver in the left-arm super heavyweight Masters 50-60 category.

Sidney had originally expected to compete in the 60-70 age group, but entered the younger category after there were no competitors in his own division.

His run to the final included victories over reigning champions from Italy, Poland and Slovakia before narrowly missing out on the gold medal.

His result also helped Britain finish second overall in the Masters team standings at the championships.

Speaking to Jewish News, Sidney said representing his country was a privilege.

“It is an honour to be selected and represent the UK in arm wrestling, which I had previously done in my 50’s and 40’s, respectively in Greco Roman Wrestling and powerlifting; both of which have stood me in good stead strength-wise for arm wrestling.

“At 63 and competing in the younger 50-60 age category, I threw caution to the wind and just went for it. Gaining dominance with my top roll technique early in the bouts, I soon dispatched champions from Italy, Poland and Slovakia, securing a silver medal to a narrow loss in the final.

“Embracing the victor, what was gratifying was learning that he was 53, ten years my junior. Always rise to a challenge, and you will be a winner, regardless of the outcome!”

Reflecting on the wider success of the British team, he added: “It was rewarding to note that my efforts contributed to securing the UK team second place overall in the masters category.”

Sidney is already looking ahead to his next challenge, saying: “This unexpected success against younger opponents has truly inspired me to train hard and go for gold at the World Championships in Greece next year.”

His medal adds to a sporting career that has also seen him represent Britain in both Greco-Roman wrestling and powerlifting before taking up competitive arm wrestling.