Vlastimil Kužel will retire this year...

Age may be just a number, but the body keeps its own records. After more than thirty years in the gym and countless tons lifted, Czech powerlifter Vlastimil Kužel has decided that the upcoming season will be his last. At forty-seven years old, he's about to leave the competition podium, but he's not about to go quietly. He plans a grand finale at two world championships.

Vlastimil Kužel, a 120kg bench press specialist, has dedicated his life to iron. Inspired by action heroes like Schwarzenegger and Stallone, he started training at the age of 14 with a clear goal - to get big and strong. He has undoubtedly succeeded. Throughout his career, he's learned what it's like to be a world record holder and put over 260 kilograms on the barbell.

"This decision matured in me for a long time. I feel that at my age I have nowhere to go, performance is stagnant and recovery is not what it used to be. The body is simply worn out and sore," he admits honestly in a video for his fans on social media.

Brazil and Argentina

The farewell season will have a spectacular climax in the autumn. The cone is going to the GPC World Championships in Brazil and just a fortnight later the GPA World Championships in Argentina. And his goal is crystal clear.

"I want to prepare 100% for these races and perform at my best. My dream is to set a new personal best and ideally a world record. I want to close my career for good. And if I say something, it's true," he promises with determination.

His motivation is huge, as his words prove:

"I will give absolutely everything to this year, even if I have to leave my soul behind."

The future belongs to the organisation

Even if he leaves the racing scene, his love for the sport never leaves him. After his active career, Vlastimil Kužel wants to start organizing competitions. His ambitions are not small.

"My next dream is to organize a competition in the Czech Republic that no one has ever seen before. I want to create a world-class event that will be talked about all over the world," he reveals his plans for the next chapter of his life.

Fans may lose one of their favourite competitors, but the Czech strength scene can look forward to new energy in the organisation and promotion of the sport.

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