The energy in Sunnyvale, California was electric as athletes, families, and fans gathered under the open sky for Battle Under The Stars Three—a powerful celebration of strength, camaraderie, and community. Now in its third year, this annual strongman competition has quickly become a staple in the San Jose Bay Area strongman scene, drawing competitors and spectators from all over the United States.
Hosted by the passionate and visionary promoter LeTia Tybor, Battle Under The Stars has grown from a grassroots event into a vibrant hub of empowerment and athletic excellence. LeTia’s mission is clear: to build a supportive community where athletes, especially women, feel celebrated, respected, and uplifted. And this year’s competition delivered exactly that—and more.
A Showcase of Strength and Camaraderie
With five events designed to push limits and test grit, athletes competed with heart, determination, and an unshakable sense of support for one another. Events included crowd favorites like the Farmers Carry, Sandbag carry, Axel Press, Deadlifts, and Hercules Hold, each demanding not only raw power but also strategy and mental toughness.
But what truly set the tone for the day wasn’t just the feats of strength—it was the camaraderie. Whether it was a first-time competitor or a seasoned athlete, cheers echoed from the sidelines, with fellow athletes rallying behind each other at every lift and every moment of doubt.
You could feel the genuine respect and shared experience in the air—proof that this sport, while individual on the surface, is deeply rooted in connection.
Women Empowering Women, On and Off the Field
Strongman is no longer just a man’s game, and Battle Under The Stars proves it. This year’s roster of athletes featured a powerful lineup of women across multiple weight classes, each one breaking stereotypes and redefining what strength looks like. From lifting massive implements to gracefully commanding the competition floor, these women showed not only physical strength but also leadership, resilience, and grace.
What made the event even more impactful was who stood in judgment: the judges included Pro Strongman female athletes—women who have competed on global stages and earned their titles through years of relentless training and perseverance. Their presence sent a strong message: the path is paved, and women are leading the way
These judges didn’t just score lifts; they inspired. Between events, they shared advice, gave encouragement, and were approachable role models for up-and-coming competitors.
Do you have words of encouragement for the athletes? You can leave them in the comments!
LeTia Tybor’s Vision: More Than Just a Competition
At the heart of Battle Under The Stars Three is LeTia Tybor. As a promoter, and athlete herself, Tybor has cultivated more than just an event—she’s building a movement. Her commitment to fostering inclusivity and community is evident in every detail, from the diverse range of athletes welcomed, the volunteer teams working behind the scenes to the small business women owned service providers .
Tybor’s ability to create a safe and celebratory space for all lifters in the strongman world is paving the way for the next generation.
And speaking of the next generation, this year’s event not only included senior women it also included a mother-daughter team, but that daughter is a teen and competing and building a name for herself in the “strongest teen” division! Way to go!
LeTia is proving that strength has many faces and that everyone deserves a place on the competition floor.
And let’s not forget to mention every detail that goes into this event!LeTia truly thinks of everything from returning athlete gifts, to a coffee cart from Brew Me Coffee, to warm us all up!
Capturing Every Moment: Event Photography That Tells a Story
There’s nothing I love more than being behind the lens at events like Battle Under The Stars Three. As an event and branding photographer based in the San Jose Bay Area, I’m all about capturing the grit, the emotion, and the in-between moments that show who you are—not just as an athlete, but as a whole, badass human.
From chalk-covered hands to that intense focus before a big lift, I’m there to document the fire. But also? The camaraderie, the high-fives, the little glances that say, “You’ve got this.” and the faces! Oh! The in the zone faces make me so happy. I live to capture these- they are truly a photographer’s dream come true.
And yes, during the sandbag carry, you better believe I was fast-walking backwards like my life depended on it—camera in hand, tracking every step as athletes pushed carts stacked with sandbags toward the finish line. I never tripped, never got in the way of judges or competitors,(at least I think I didn’t) and definitely caught those all-out effort moments and a few epic victory faces.
—> Does anyone have a picture of me doing this? If you post on If please tag me @marianamayaphotography
I work with athletes, coaches, and event organizers who want more than just snapshots—they want photos that feel like them. Whether you’re building your brand, promoting an event, or just want to see yourself in action and looking strong as hell, I’ve got you covered.
Basically? I’m your hype girl with a camera—documenting every PR, every celebration, and every sweaty, glorious second in between. (bold AF- Hire me plug!- Can you blame me?)
Are you an athlete looking for a marketing photographer for your next event, to document your progress or for your branding? Drop me a note let’s plan your shoot and your marketing strategy.
Looking Ahead
With each passing year, Battle Under The Stars grows in reach and impact. What started as a dream is now a cornerstone of the local strength community. Thanks to LeTia Tybor’s leadership, the tireless volunteers, the inspiring athletes, and the support of local businesses, this event continues to thrive.
Whether you’re an athlete, or a supporter of women in sports, one thing is clear: this is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of strength in all its forms.
Stay strong. Stay inspired.
Did you miss the past two events? Or simply want to relive the moments. Check out Battle Under the Stars 1 and Battle Under The Stars 2!
