You don’t have to twist Dan Gallo’s arm to head to Edmonton this weekend.
That’s where the national armwrestling championships are being held and Gallo is looking to win his 10th national title. He is coming off wins with both right arm and left arm at the provincial championships, but it wasn’t easy.
“I was very ill,” said Gallo. “I ended up with pneumonia. But now I’m feeling good, almost at weight already. I’m ready to rock and roll.”
Gallo has gone undefeated with his left arm for two years and is hoping to make it three.
“As for the right arm, hopefully I’ll get that title back.”
There are about 300 entries in the national championships so the competition will be tough. If all goes well, the nationals can lead to competing in the world championships and the Arnold Classic.
“I’d like to go back to the Arnold Classic and this time win,” he said. “I got third when I was there last time. I’d like to do a little better.”
Gallo has won 21 provincial titles, nine national titles, third at the Arnold Classic, and sixth place at the World’s.
“There’s a long way to go yet,” he said.
Gallo has been supported by Brink Forest Products and was presented with a cheque on Monday to help him with his expenses in Edmonton.
“It’s been extremely helpful,” he said of the sponsorship. “It’s very humbling to have someone help out for once.”
John Brink, founder and CEO of Brink Forest Products, said he is proud to sponsor Gallo and have him part of the team.
“Dan is an amazing individual,” said John Brink, founder and CEO of Brink Forest Products. “He is so committed and his resume speaks for itself. It’s all about dedication. You cannot become a champion like Dan unless you make that 150 per cent commitment, and he does. So he’s an inspiration for all of us who aspire to goals, whatever they may be.”
Gallo also praised local armwrestler and mentor Vern Martel.
“I’d like to give him a shout out for giving me the opportunity, 14 or 15 years ago, and getting me started in the sport,” he said. “People talk like they want to do some, Vern one of those people who actually did something. Seeing Vern’s accomplishments definitely drove me to push myself as hard as I can … and he still does.”
