Ernest CADINE

The trained mechanic Ernest Cadine began his active career at the age of 16 practising gymnastics, wrestling, weightlifting and swimming. He had his first appearance at the French Championships placing third as a middleweight prior to World War I. From 1914-18 he was active in an artillery regiment. In 1920 he won his first French Championship and a few months later the gold medal in the light-heavyweight class at the 1920 Olympics. His epic battles against the 1924 gold medal winner Charles Rigoulot, both having become professionals by 1925, attracted large crowds. Although he never participated in any other international championships, Cadine set six light-heavyweight world records from 1920-25 – three each in the snatch and clean & jerk. He later started a music hall career with demonstrations of his strength, and was said to have had a handshake like a bench vise. In 1978, the year of his death, Cadine received the French National Order of Merit.