World-class strongman Martins Licis will attempt to pull a 34,680-pound battery electric Big Blue Bus for 30 feet at Santa Monica Pier on Thursday, June 26, at 8:15 a.m.
The 2019 World's Strongest Man winner and 2022 Arnold Strongman Classic champion will pull the 35-foot-long bus through the pier's parking lot as part of a pre-event program for the upcoming "Pier 360" Beach Festival.
The challenge will feature a Big Blue Bus driver onboard during the pull, showcasing Santa Monica's newly branded fleet of zero-emission buses. The event serves as the official kickoff for the festival weekend.
"The strongman challenge promises an unforgettable display of power, innovation, and spirit," according to event organizers.
The program begins at 8 a.m. with remarks from Jim Harris, executive director and historian of Santa Monica Pier; Mayor Lana Negrete; Anuj Gupta, director of transportation for the City of Santa Monica; and Romark Weis, coach and business partner of the Santa Monica Strongman Classic.
The Big Blue Bus pull is scheduled for approximately 8:15 a.m., with the overall program running until 9:30 a.m. Photo and video opportunities will be available from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
The event precedes the Santa Monica "Pier 360" Beach Festival, returning June 28-29, 2025, for two days of competition and entertainment along the Santa Monica shoreline. The free, all-ages event will feature over 80 male and female athletes competing in strongman contests, along with ocean sports, beachside games, skateboarding, roller skating, live music, food and drinks.
Festival activities explore 90 years of paddleboard racing history, with action beginning at 9 a.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
Attendees are encouraged to travel sustainably and try Big Blue Bus service. Visit bigbluebus.com to plan trips.
The Big Blue Bus pull will take place at Santa Monica Pier, Beach Parking Lot 1 North, 1550 Appian Way, Santa Monica.
For more information, visit santamonicapier.org
Edited by SMDP Staff