Team Jacksonville, representing Middleburg, returned as champions from the International Federation of Arm Wrestling (IFAs) event on April 4 in Dayton, Ohio.

The winners comprised Chuck Westberry, Raylan Heck and daughter Emma.

The national competition brought together fierce competitors in the sport, while the team showcased their strength and determination on a grand stage.

The contest consisted of several divisions: a professional division, a women's division, plus categories for teenagers and little kids. Additionally, there were age-based categories, including masters (ages 40 and over), grandmasters (ages 15 and over), senior grandmasters (ages 16 and over) and ultra senior grandmasters (ages 70 and over).

All three Jacksonville members returned with medals in their respective categories.

"All five of us came home with first place; that was a big deal,” said Westberry, captain and coach of the Jacksonville Professional Arm Wrestling team.

“We have one guy from Jacksonville Beach, and he's 80 years old. He was the oldest man in the competition. We have teams in St. Augustine, Lake City, Gainesville and Fernandina. I'm so proud of everyone and their hard work.”

The sport, which originated in the vibrant 1980s, quickly entered the Jacksonville area during the ’90s, captivating local residents.

"I got my wife and two daughters, and we come here every Thursday to practice, train and meet others,” Raylan Heck explained.

“It's awesome, because you learn different techniques. We also raise money for the Warriors Peace (CSI). So, we help out veterans in many ways -- but being able to be funded by those doing what they love, we raise money.”

The next national tournament is slated for Corbin, Kentucky, on Friday, April 25. Following that, the Mayhem Tournament is scheduled for June 14 at the Crown Plaza Hotel at Jacksonville Airport.

The team practices in Middleburg at 6:30 p.m. every Thursday.

If anyone is looking to learn arm wrestling, visit Team Jacksonville.