The 2024 Official Strongman Games (OSG) wrapped up earlier this month, bringing together nearly 400 of the world’s strongest athletes. Held at the Alliant Energy Center – Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Madison, Wisconsin, this event is one of the biggest highlights in the Strongman and Strongwoman calendar.
Competitors from across the globe faced off in a variety of events, such as log clean and presses, car walks, axle deadlifts, sandbag medleys, wrecking ball holds, and the iconic Atlas stones. With divisions ranging from male and female weight classes to teen and junior athletes all the way to masters and adaptive classes, it truly was a celebration of strength in every form.
This year, City Strength had four athletes step onto the world stage. Let’s take a look at how they performed and the incredible stories they brought with them.
Elly Smith
Elly Smith made her second OSG appearance this year, and what a journey it’s been since her debut in 2022. Back then, she placed 22nd in her class. Fast forward two years, and she’s climbed the rankings to finish 11th in 2024.
Her goal this year was a top-10 finish, and while missing it by a hair was tough, her progress speaks volumes. Elly gave it her all in the preliminaries, but a few missed reps cost her points. Still, jumping 11 spots on the world stage is an incredible achievement and a testament to her hard work and commitment.
Grateful for the support of her family, team, and fans, Elly is far from done. She’s already looking ahead to push for even greater heights.
“I’m incredibly grateful for everyone who has supported me on this journey, including my sponsor, City Strength, for always backing me and believing in my potential.
While falling just short of the finals was tough, being part of this competition has once again reminded me of what makes this sport so special. The women I compete against aren’t my rivals—they’re supporters and friends. The camaraderie, encouragement, and respect we show each other are unmatched. Watching the top athletes perform in the finals was inspiring; they put on an incredible show, and I couldn’t be happier for them.”
Find out more about Elly in her Athlete Profile.
Joe Kimitaunga
Joe Kimitaunga came into her second OSG determined to improve on her 16th-place finish last year. She smashed her goal of making the top 10 and finished an amazing 6th overall.
This year’s success was no accident. Joe’s preparation was on point, with every training session building her strength and confidence. Each session she hit the numbers her coach programmed no matter how hard she pushed herself the previous session. Moving up 10 spots on the global stage is no small feat, and it’s clear that Joe’s hard work and determination are paying off.
“I placed 16th last year, and to improve and place 6th is a very big improvement.”
Find out more about Joe in her Athlete Profile.
Joshua Patacca
Imagine being invited to the world stage just three weeks before the event. For many, it would lead to a panic. But not Josh Patacca. Instead, he saw it as a fun challenge and a chance to gauge his strength and formulate a game plan.
Josh’s journey wasn’t easy. With missed flights and a three-hour bus ride to Madison, just getting there was a battle. But once he hit the competition floor, he proved why he belonged. Josh finished an impressive 6th overall and even snagged a win in the wrecking ball hold. This finish earned him an invite to next year’s OSG, where he’s aiming for a podium spot.
“I am very proud of my performance, especially with such short notice, and I am looking forward to competing again next year, hopefully for a place on the podium to secure an invite to a Giants Live competition or even World’s Strongest Man!”
Find out more about Josh in his Athlete Profile.
Raissa Vogler
Raissa Vogler returned to OSG this year with a refreshed mindset and a focus on enjoying the journey. Having placed 4th in her class previously she came into this competition with a new outlook wanting to take in the experience and show her gratitude for competing on the world stage. While she didn’t quite crack the top three, she still delivered an incredible performance with another 4th-place finish.
A highlight of Raissa’s competition was hitting a personal best on the axle deadlift with six reps at 200kg. However, a few mistakes in the sandbag medley held her back from reaching the podium. Even so, her consistency on the world stage is a huge accomplishment, and she’s already looking forward to the next challenge.
“Third place was on my radar, and naturally I’m always looking for ways to improve with some events not going quite to plan, but that's competition, so I’ll assess and move myself from good to great.”
Find out more about Raissa in her Athlete Profile.
The 2024 Official Strongman Games was an incredible showcase of strength, resilience, and determination. The performances of Elly, Joe, Josh, and Raissa highlight the grit it takes to compete against the best in the world. From huge personal improvements to impressive displays of raw power, these athletes are an inspiration. We can’t wait to see what they’ll bring to the 2025 Official Strongman Games.
Stay tuned for more updates from the world of Strength Sports!
Check out some of our athletes favourite products