Under The Radar - Grip Profile - Lucas Raymond

[anwnate]

I had met Lucas at a number of competitions over the last few years, but it wasn't until I had dinner with him at Gripmas, that I found out that he is quick witted and a genuinely funny guy.

When you use the term "Under the Radar," you don't expect to be talking about someone who has been recognized by David Horne for inclusion of the "Grip Hall of Fame." However, Eirik Ingebretsen was one, and now we have another, Lucas Raymond. Lucas's training partner casts a rather large shadow…but even he will admit that Lucas has shown him up more than a time or two. With his world class sledge and blob curling ability, his wrist strength is almost outworldly. Now, he's taken that proficiency beyond the world of grip…and is venturing into the Arm Wrestling waters. Where will he stop? Only time will tell. However, with his quick rise in the Gripworld, I wouldn't bet against him.

 

6 questions to get to know Lucas.

1. What are your stats? Gripboard Name, Age, height (inches/meters), weight (lbs/kgs), dominant hand size (cm/in), country, city (or region…whatever you are comfortable with), married/single, kids, occupation ("international spy" is acceptable)

Gripboard Name: "Lucasraymond"

Age: 31

Height: 6’1" (185cm)

Weight: 205lbs (93kg)

Dominant Hand size: Depends on event, R primarily (R 7.8”, L 8”) (19.8, 20.3cm)

Country/City: Wyalusing, Pennsylvania, USA
Marital Status: Single

Occupation: Physical Therapist/Facility Manager

2. Why did you start training grip (and how long is it now)?

My grip training started shortly after treating Jedd Johnson for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in fall of 2012. He suggested that I come check out his gym. When I went, I tried many of the easier grip feats with minimal success. Shortly after that, I purchased a set of COC grippers (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3). I trained about 5-6 times prior to the Holdfast Gauntlet in April 2013 and did much better in the contest than I expected. Just an FYI the medley in the THG I was able to perform all the lifts except tearing a 300 page phonebook which still haunts me to this date (because of how easy of a feat it is now). Following my first contest, I was hooked on gripsport. This contest was also the first time I had the chance to learn how to DO bend (60d nail); and then with some training I was able to certify in the IM Red Nail in less than a year. I have been consistently training with Jedd for 2.5 years now.

3. Before you die, what is your ULTIMATE grip goal/goals?

My ultimate goals at this time are to lift the Inch DB with both hands and lift Blobzilla (half 130), possibly even curl it. Also to beat Jedd in a grip contest so I can finally justify the #Hostiletakeover hashtag.

4. How do you currently structure your overall training/how do you incorporate your grip training?

My basic training is based upon the 4 main powerlifting exercises: deadlift, bench press, squat, and overhead press. I usually perform those exercises as my main training and then accessory lifts to go along with them.

My weekly routine primarily consists of Chest/Back/Hub/Armwresting (AW) on Mondays, Tuesdays Shoulders/Axle/1HP/Thickbar with Jedd, Wednesday Arms/Wrist Roller/Anvil/Sledge/AW, Thursday Squats/Grippers/2HP with Jedd, Saturday/Sunday Deadlift/Speed Thickbar (cleans, snatches) with Jedd.

This is the set schedule that I have for training but depending on how I feel or if life gets in the way it can change. The armwrestling exercises are currently minimal, but may become more of a part of my training when not training with Jedd. Also I do not train after June (NAGS) until about October due to having multiple other hobbies during the summer/fall months.

5. What hobbies (other than grip/bending/lifting) do you enjoy?

Spending time with my girlfriend Brittany, Fishing, Hunting (archery), Softball, Golfing, Flag Football, Woodworking, Muscle cars.

6. Who's Grip profile would you like to see?

I'd like to see Gil Goodman aka Squeezus Christ.

Thanks Lucas, Gil will be profiled in two weeks. The series will return next Wednesday with David Mitti.

[JHenze646]

Lucas who? - humor

Did you get a deer this year, Lucas?

[Lucasraymond]

Lucas who? - humor

Did you get a deer this year, Lucas?

only a doe

[JHenze646]

Lucas who? - humor

Did you get a deer this year, Lucas?

only a doe

Well, you can't eat the antlers. They make horrible soup.

[Jedd Johnson]

I just want to say that I owe a great deal of my success over the last few years to Luke. He's the best partner I ever had.

[burkhardmacht]

Thanks for sharing!!

[Cannon]

Lucas who? - humor

Did you get a deer this year, Lucas?

only a doe

That's a deer. A female deer. 🎼🎶🎶

[Forever]

Good profile!

[MCrushetta]

So you are younger than me after all. Hmmmph. Cool to read this. I like doing Grippers on squat day too. It helps b/c of all the nervous system thangs.