Bradford Strongman Competes After Wedding and Honeymoon
November 4, 2025George Smith prepares for England’s Strongest Man competition following recent marriage
A former University of Bradford student, George Smith, is set to compete in this year’s England’s Strongest Man contest, which will take place on Sunday 9 November at the Doncaster Dome. The 27-year-old recently married fellow Bradford alumna Kathryn Bradney, who is also involved in strongwoman competitions.
Recent personal milestones
George and Kathryn married on Friday 10 October before embarking on a honeymoon to Japan and South Korea. Despite the busy schedule, George maintained his training regime and even participated in a sumo wrestling match during the trip. Earlier this year, the couple relocated from Bradford to Nottinghamshire.
Competition details and upcoming events
- England’s Strongest Man: Sunday 9 November, 14:00 to 17:00, Doncaster Dome
- Extinct Games Invitational Singapore: 29 and 30 November, where George will represent England
George is 6ft 2ins tall and competes at around 145kg (22 stone 11.7lbs).
Background and training
George studied BSc (Hons) Computer Science for Cyber Security at the University of Bradford, graduating in 2024. Kathryn studied BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy from 2017 to 2020. The couple met while students at the University and were both members of the University’s Archery Club.
George’s interest in strongman competitions began during lockdown, inspired by watching past World’s Strongest Man contests. He trained at Unique Fitness, the University of Bradford’s on-campus gym and sports centre, before entering his first competition in November 2022, where he finished fourth. Since then, he has competed in several events, including:
- UK’s Strongest Novice – 1st place
- Mansfield’s Strongest Man – 1st place
- Leeds Strongest – 1st place
- King of the North (North England’s Strongest Man) – 2025 winner
Kathryn has also competed in strongwoman events, winning the Implexus First Timers competition last year and finishing second in Mansfield’s Strongest Woman 2025.
Training and future goals
Both George and Kathryn typically train for just over two hours after work each evening. George described their approach as a hobby that they plan to continue as long as they enjoy it. He expressed satisfaction at reaching the England’s Strongest Man competition and is considering his next goals.
George commented on the challenges of balancing personal and professional commitments, noting the support they have received from friends and family during this busy period.
