Clyde North’s own strongman, Jonathan (Jono) Nelio, has made his mark on the global stage, securing an impressive second-place finish in the Open division at the 2025 World Natural Strongman Championships in Ireland.
His father-in-law from Pakenham, Justin St Mart started the fundraiser to support Jono’s journey.
Despite a slow response to the campaign, the family was able to pull together enough support for Jono and his partner, Chloe, to make the trip.
Their attendance allowed Jono to represent both his Cook Islands heritage and his Australian roots on the world stage.
“I felt extremely proud and grateful,” Jono said. “To carry both flags on the world stage feels like bringing together who I am and who I’ve become. It’s something I carry with pride and a deep sense of gratitude.”
Behind that performance was months of preparation.
“Credit goes to my coach and my good friend/brother Charles for getting me to build my cardio up, cause cardio was definitely needed for this,” Jono said.
Having his partner Chloe by his side made all the difference.
“Without her there is no 2nd place World’s Strongest Natural,” Jono said. “She’s my rock, and I love her so much for it. Again, without her there is no Jonathan Nelio strongman competitor.”
One of his standout moments in Ireland came from pushing past his own training limits and connecting with fellow athletes from around the world.
“When I managed to press the 170kg Axle over head as I was struggling to do 155kg in training, not only that I almost pressed 180kg,” Jono said.
His strong performance also gave him perspective on the future.
“Me and 1st place put a massive distance from 3rd place. I believe almost 10 points, so the fire is there,” Jono said.
Justin said Jono’s performance in Ireland has already caught the attention of organisers, earning him an invitation to compete at another international event in Birmingham this November.
However, with sponsorship opportunities limited, it’s currently uncertain if he will be able to attend.
For Jono, the setback isn’t discouraging.
“No effect, it is what it is, that is the cards I have in my hand, and that is what I’ll play with.”
When it comes to chasing dreams in the face of financial or personal challenges, his message is real:
“Train your hardest and 100 per cent believe in yourself,” Jono said.
“I still struggle with that, but once you can overcome that mental block, you’ll surprise yourself on how far you can jump.”
Jono hopes his journey will inspire the next generation of Polynesian athletes.
“We might be small in number on the world stage, but we’re mighty. I want to show that our people belong here too,” he said.
To donate visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/get-jono-to-the-world-strongman-champs-in-ireland
