Kempton bodybuilders break barriers at competition
The five bodybuilders come from the same gym in Kempton Park.
Five Family Fitness Bodybuilders claimed prizes at the PCA Legends Bodybuilding Show in Pretoria in May.
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Thomas van Baalen (37), Ditiro Lawrence Jonas (32), Marizaan Breedt (32), Julinda Strydom (35) and Dilene Moller(28) competed in the show to represent their gym in Kempton Park.
The bodybuilders who have all claimed podium trophies at the PCA Legends show at the Heartfelt Arena shared their show preparation experiences with the Express.
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Dilene won first place in figure and overall. It was her first competition in five years and she had to master the art of mental and physical discipline while preparing for the competition.
“Between work and two children, I had to put bodybuilding on hold for a few years. However it is all about mind over matter,” said Dilene.
Thirty-five-year-old mom Julinda said she only started bodybuilding in October last year.
Although she might only be a beginner to the sport, she said taking second place in novice trained bikini and third place in trained bikini 35 and older categories got her addicted to the sport.
“It’s the best investment I’ve ever made in myself. It is extremely rewarding towards your mind, body and soul.”
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Thirty-two-year-old Marizaan took second place in the women’s wellness division.
Although Covid-19 put a lot on hold for her in terms of competing, she still loved the process of getting her body where it needed to be.
Thirty-seven-year-old Thomas took first place in the U80kg and was the overall winner.
He has won multiple accolades from various competitions starting in 2015.
“Taking first place at the PCA Legends show and winning overall was a dream come true. To be honest, preparing for a show takes a lot of discipline and dedication and it’s not easy going through the processes to get your body in its best shape for the day.
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“My next goal is to get my Pro Card and get invitational to Birmingham, London to represent South Africa,” said Thomas.
Thirty-two-year-old Ditiro who took first place in the novice bodybuilding category said he was motivated to excel and work hard.
The five athletes are currently training to compete in the Battle of The Titans bodybuilding show to be held in Pretoria on July 16.
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