Two Correctional Officers at the Drumheller Institution brought their guns to Colorado earlier this month, but not the same ones issued at their penitentiary.
Rehill, who’s wrestled for 27 years, collected four first place trophies and won the overall left hand competition, while Lautermilch, in his sixth year of training, won five second place trophies and one third.
“It’s hard to compete at that level, the skill level is really high and if you’re not prepared you don’t have a chance,” said Rehill, a three time national champ and has been second and third in the world.
It’s the competition, the sportsmanship, and the prospect of travel which attracts the veteran Rehill to the sport. “It’s been a really positive experience since the beginning for me.”
Building the arms and technique to compete at such a high calibre competition is a year long process, they both say.
Rehill and Lautermilch are training buddies who work out for over an hour 4-5 times a week and train against each other for at least two hours a week, strictly focused on arm wrestling.
“It’s a full-time thing, all our spare time is spent training to get ready for these competitions,” said Rehill.
Not only strengthening the arm muscles, training consists of prepping tendons for the huge strain and working on proper form and technique.
“It’s very, very demanding... after that tournament I was probably hung up for three days,” laughs Lautermilch. “It’s a shock, that’s for sure.”
Rehill peaked Lautermilch’s interest when he first started at the Pen.
“He’s a fantastic teacher.”
“I love the training and love the competition,” says Lautermilch.
“It’s great how far along Curtis has come, he’s a top level competitor after only six years,” said Rehill.
The two will be looking to compete in the World Police and Fire Game Championships in New York in 2011. Both Rehill and Lautermilch won gold at the 2009 games in Vancouver.