Clash of the Grinders is a 3M event organized by Metaaltechniek in cooperation with the Metavak.
Are you proud of your grinding work and ready to show the whole country what you can do? Could you be the best grinder in the Netherlands? Take on the challenge and prove your worth. Last year, Mathijs Klooster from Krepla was the big winner. Who knows, maybe this year’s grand prize will go to you!
Sign up for the competition of the year and give yourself a spotlight at the trade fair for the metalworking industry, Metavak in Gorinchem.
Grinding competition for true professionals
Grinders often work behind the scenes. But let’s be honest—where would we be without these skilled professionals? Quality grinding work can make or break the final result. It’s high time we gave them the recognition they deserve.
Join the 2026 sharpening event and win great prizes!
As far as we’re concerned, every participant is a hero. The word “loser” isn’t in our vocabulary. But every round does have a winner who takes home a great prize. After all, it is still a competition.
Points can be earned in every category. Independent judges will award the points. You can earn points for correctly completing the task and for the speed at which you completed it. Sometimes, the amount of wear on your grinding wheel also counts. In short, all your skills matter!
The winner of The Clash in 2025:
The first edition of Clash of the Grinders 2025 in the Netherlands was won by Mathijs, who works at Krepla. Watch the video here:
Are you up for taking on Mathijs? Sign up now!
Practical information about the Clash of the Grinders
Place and time:
Evenementenhal in Gorinchem.
Daily at approximately 3:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. during Metavak on October 6, 7, and 8, 2026.
Therace consists of a number of rounds with different parts:
- Choose the right PPE appropriate to the job and put on/put on/put on correctly.
- Prepare your tools for the test. Choose the machine and abrasive you want to use.
- Getting started!
Applications include:
- Cutting
- Weld flat grinding
- Welding cleaning
- Paint preparation--> remove small weld and finish to level for powder coating.
- Shortly before the competition, you’ll be shown the tasks and will have the chance to work with your teammates to decide on a strategy. So you won’t be on your own!
Bring your supporters!
Of course, you’re not in this alone! You can bring as many supporters as you like. Think of your colleagues, manager, family, and friends. Admission to the fair is free; all you need to do is register, and you can do that here.
Award ceremony
There are great prizes worth €1,500 up for grabs! And, of course, a beautiful trophy that will look right at home in your trophy case.
Afterwards, toast together to a successful event!
After the game, there will be snacks and drinks for everyone. And of course you can take another tour of the exhibition floor. You will always come across great innovations!
Don't hesitate any longer and join us!
Places are limited, so reserve your spot at the grinding bench now!
