Ntaopane wins title at bodybuilding championship
Raymond Ntaopane (51) stepped out in first place at the IBFF Classic Bodybuilding Championships in the Masters (over 50) category that took place on September 18 in Welkom.
Ntaopane competed with a total of 127 male and female athletes in different categories at the Welkom Classics, which is regarded as one of the biggest championships of the sport.
The computerised system used by judges announced Raymond in the top three before he was crowned as the ultimate winner in the Masters. Ntaopane grew up in Viljoenskroon in the Free State and said it was great to show off his strength in his home province again.
“It was a remarkable experience for me. You find yourself in another world on stage,” he said.
Bodybuilding has been his passion since 1996. This athlete has won several bodybuilding competitions over the past 25 years.
“To be healthy and able to compete in a sport I love is a blessing, which I thank God for daily,” Ntaopane said.
He added that besides a healthy lifestyle and a strict diet, his recipe for success is dedication, hard work and an attitude of gratitude.
His ultimate goal is to encourage youngsters to believe in achieving their dreams just like he believes in his dream of competing at the world championships. Bodybuilding is regarded as an expensive sport, as not only does it require 24-hour attention, hard work, discipline and dedication, it also requires a special diet and nutrition.
“I am very grateful towards the management of Anabolic Fitness Gym in Heidelberg for not only sponsoring my gym membership but to support me in reaching my ultimate dream. I need support or sponsors for the cost of competing,” Ntaopane said.
Ntaopane received an invitation to compete at the SA National Championships that will take place on October 17 at Emerald Casino and Resort in Vanderbijlpark.
For more information or to invite Ntaopane as a motivational speaker, contact him on 063 772 9616.
