Boksburg bodybuilder Jenè Brits was overwhelmed with emotion after a memorable outing at the recent Welkom Classic, where she was crowned the overall female winner after first claiming the Wellness Mode and Sports Model titles.

Brits described the achievement as a special reward for the discipline, sacrifices and commitment that went into her preparation.

“When I realised I had won Wellness, Sports Model, and then the Women’s Overall title, I was honestly overwhelmed with emotion,” said Brits.

“I had worked so hard for this moment, but I don’t think you can ever fully prepare yourself for what it feels like to hear your name called as the winner.”

Winning the Wellness division was particularly meaningful for Brits as it is her main bodybuilding category and represents the physique she has worked hard to develop.

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Sports Model presented an additional challenge, making her victory in the division an unexpected bonus before she went on to claim the overall female honours.

Brits said the achievement goes beyond the trophies.

“It represents the discipline, the sacrifices, the late nights, the difficult days, and all the moments when I had to choose to keep going,” she said.

Her preparation required consistency both inside and outside the gym, including structured training, nutrition and making sacrifices to remain focused on her goal.

Brits credited her coach, Matt Weitz, for playing a significant role in her preparation, while her husband, bodybuilder JJ, and close friends provided invaluable support throughout the demanding process.

“There were definitely moments when I doubted myself,” she admitted. “Bodybuilding can be a very challenging journey, both physically and mentally.”

The Bardene resident said that remembering why she started helped her push through those difficult moments, while the belief in her shown by her husband, coach and friends gave her additional motivation.

She now hopes to build on her Welkom Classic success by continuing to compete, improve and learn as she develops her bodybuilding career. More importantly, she wants her journey to inspire young athletes, particularly young women, to believe in themselves and pursue their ambitions.

“I want them to know that your circumstances do not have to determine your future. You can start wherever you are, with whatever you have, and work towards something that means a lot to you.”

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