Body builders claim podium positions

BLUFFITES Sean King (23) and Shelley Smith (39) worked the stage and reaped the rewards at the International Federation of Body-building and Fitness (IFBB) KZN East Coast Classic championship on Saturday, 28 June.

Sean, who is not a stranger to the stage, came out of a two-year break to scoop third place in the senior men’s open over 75kg division. Before taking time off to study, he had already amassed a number of titles. He won the IFBB KZN U21 under 75kg and over 75kg divisions in 2010 and 2011, and claimed second spot at the South African championships. He also won the National Amateur Body-building Association’s (NABBA) U21 SA championships in 2010 and 2011 and came second in the Mr Universe competition in 2011.

Sean, who has a diploma in fitness and nutrition is proud of his achievements thus far, and aims to make an impact in the open division. He will not be taking part in the IFBB’s SA championships later this year, but hopes to be competing at the champs next year. Even though he has never had a personal trainer or nutritionist, Sean has managed to teach himself everything he knows.

Mother of two, Shelley Smith is the envy of most women, having managed to keep fit while raising two children. After being a finalist in three competitions, Shelley claimed her first podium position when she scooped third place in the fitness bikini over 35s section. Although she has been gyming for 19-years, she only started body-building seven years ago.

“I’m still shocked. I look at my trophy and I can’t believe it. It’s a total surprise,” she said of her achievement.

Shelley qualified as a personal trainer two-years ago and now runs her own gym, Fabulous Fitness. Although she has no definite plans for future competitions, she aspires to be the best she can be and to continue learning. “I have to be an example for my clients so in my spare time I enjoy baking healthy food and trying out healthy recipes.”