Editor's Note: Here is the press release issued by Pat Robertson's spokesman regarding the reverend's claim of leg bench pressing 2,000 pounds.
Dear Reverend Pat Robertson,
It has recently come to my attention that you are the Strongest Man in the World. I am not, so I am suitably impressed by your ability to leg press 2,000 pounds. I believe you also qualify for the title of Strongest Man in the History of Mankind. Your strength exceeds even Samson's -- and you've always had short hair. Quite an impressive feat indeed.
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| Robertson presses one ton on this specially modified inclined leg bench press machine. (Photo/CBN) |
We are not, however, without our differences. You're 76 years old, own the third-largest cable network in America, ran for president in 1988, founded the Christian Coalition and created a protein shake that allows you to thrust off the manacles of modern mankind.
On the other hand, I'm 27 years old, have cable (but not Cinemax; don't worry, I'm not a heathen), was once elected president of the Spirit Club in my high school, write a biweekly column called ClayNation for SPiN on Sports and once embarked upon a 48-day pudding strike. Despite our differences, I feel like we can be united in the everlasting brotherhood of mutual competition.
But here's my dilemma, Rev. Robertson (when you respond, I hope you'll let me know when it will no longer be presumptuous of me to call you Pat), I too would like to be the Strongest Man in the World. And you, clearly, have that title. Plus, there is very little chance that I could ever hope to compete with you on the basis of strength alone. So I would like to issue a challenge to you that incorporates both physical and mental strength. A veritable champion's pentathlon to decide once and for all who is truly the Strongest Man in the World.
Whomever shall triumph in three or more events out of five will be crowned champion. If you win, I feel confident in saying that I speak for the remaining six billion people on earth when I say that your status as the Strongest Man in the History of Mankind will never be questioned again. Ever. But if you lose, then I hope you will relinquish your title with grace, humility and an autographed bottle of your protein shake for my parents.
Below are my suggestions for the five events you and I should partake in:
1. Protein shake-chugging contest (quantity negotiable)
2.
Leg press contest
3. Bench press contest
4. Spelling Bee
5. Painting famous scenes from the Bible on canvas
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| Think you can leg press 2,000 pounds? If a 76-year-old man did it ... (Photo/CBN) |
Further, I am well aware that like the Presidential debates themselves, negotiations surrounding pentathlon events such as these are often time consuming, detail specific and laced with posturing for personal advantage. As such, I will graciously agree to the terms of this competition on an any place, any time, anywhere basis.
While I will be training in Nashville, Tenn. and would be quite comfortable with a competition here, rest assured that I will be prepared to sally forth and engage you in competition on any continent, ship (either floating or docked) or any sufficiently equipped airplane upon this earth.
I look forward to your response and remain your most humble admirer.
Sincerely,
Clay Travis
