Liebherr received around 200 applications from mobile crane operators worldwide to participate in the Game of Cranes. 25 of them made it to the preliminary rounds in Newport News (USA), Guaratinguetá (Brazil), Adelaide (Australia), Azuqueca de Henares (Spain), and Dammam (Saudi Arabia). There, the participants demonstrated their skills in three disciplines – two practical and one theoretical.
Excellence at the highest level
During the Remote Drive BTT-E parking challenge, the task was to manoeuvre the crane safely and precisely out of a confined space. In another exercise, participants had to navigate a concrete block through a course, ensuring that a chain attached to the block maintained continuous contact with the ground – without the block itself touching it. Selecting the correct lifting gear was also part of the practical challenges. The theory section focused on working with the operating manual, choosing the appropriate lifting accessories, and calculating physical forces.
“The performances we saw in the qualifiers were impressive. All participants showed how demanding and professional crane operation is today,” says Christoph Behmüller, Head of Training and Education at Liebherr in Ehingen.
Five finalists heading to Ehingen
The winners of the preliminary rounds who have qualified for the grand final in November in Ehingen are:
- Africa, Middle East & Asia: Kirk Smith (Titan Cranes NZ) from New Zealand
- Australia: Joey Fisher (Johnson & Young Cranes) from Australia
- Europe: Scott White (City Lifiting) from the UK
- North America: Nick Jackman (Mountain Crane) from the USA
- South America: Leonardo Navarro (WWN Guindastes) from Brazil
“The competition was fierce: all the operators present were highly competent and demonstrated their skills with mastery,” says Rene Porto, divisional manager of the mobile cranes division at Liebherr Brazil. Leonardo Navarro from WWN Guindastes, who emerged as the winner of the South American semi-final, is understandably delighted: “I feel honoured to go to Germany to compete with the best crane operators in the world”, say the Brazilian crane operator. And Rene Porto adds: “Without a doubt, Leonardo deserves first place. His crane operation skills were outstanding.”
“What an incredible experience the Dammam preliminary round was! The five-star treatment and the professionalism from the entire Liebherr Saudi Arabia team were exceptional. The Game of Cranes did not disappoint – it was a thrilling mix of nerves and excitement that kept me humble and sharp, despite the jet lag. I am thrilled to have won this round, and I look forward to the next challenge. My deepest thanks to Liebherr for this amazing opportunity”, says Kirk Smith from Titan Cranes NZ. The New Zealander took part in the preliminary round for the Africa, Middle East and Asia region. Marius Kleck, Regional Sales Manager Middle East & Central Africa at Liebherr, is also enthusiastic: “The competition showed how much skill and precision go into every single move. It was impressive to see how calmly and focused the participants performed, even under pressure.”
