Former Syrian Shot-Put Champion Throws Bombs for the FSA

Syria's shot-put champion Abu Al-Kazem now puts his skills to a different use: Today, as the commander of a Free Syrian Army brigade in Deir Al-Zour, he throws large and heavy bombs, which others find difficult to throw, according to a report on the Lebanese Al-Jadid TV channel.

Following are excerpts from the report, which aired on March 23, 2014:

Reporter: Nickname: Abu Al-Kazem. Occupation: Dynamite-thrower in the FSA. Military title: Commander of the Umm Al-Qura Brigade in Deir Al-Zour. Abu Al-Kazem used to have a different title, which he earned by the strength of his arms, in his days as a student in his hometown of Al-Mayadin, in Deir Al-Zour. He participated in the local shot-put competition, and went on to become the Syrian shot-put champion. Today, however, he has turned into a dynamite-thrower. With the strength of his hands, he makes and throws dynamite sticks. He has become well-known among the brigades in the Jbeile neighborhood. They make use of his expertise in throwing large and heavy bombs, which others find difficult to throw far enough to reach their target.

Abu Al-Kazem: Since the conflict started, we have been fighting with all possible means. One means is the locally-made mortars – locally-made, bomb-like shells. See, they come in different sizes. Allah willing, we will rebuild this pure land.

Reporter: Before the crisis broke out in Syria, Abu Al-Kazem worked in construction. Today, he is considered one of the leaders of the city, which confronts the Syrian regime's army.

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