Springs is proud of you Nabeel
Six years of hard work finally paid off for the Springsite.
Nabeel Chouglay has made Springs proud by taking first place at the International Federation of Bodybuilding (IFBB) South African National Championship.
The 22-year-old from Bakerton, who started his journey at 15, always knew this sport was for him and talked about what inspired him to start.
“I started training because I felt insecure about my body. I never imagined that such an insecurity would turn into such a big passion in my life. It has been a journey of six years of hard work and consistency.”
Nabeel notes that with all sports, bodybuilding comes with its glorious moments, but one must put in the work.
“After four years of rigorous training, people around me kept telling me that my physique was on a competition level and I should compete. I decided to test the waters and see if it was for me.
“I took part in my first competition in July 2023 in the first-timers men’s physique and as soon as I stepped on that stage it was like I was in euphoria.”
He adds that the lights, crowd, and adrenaline he felt on the stage can be compared to no other.
“I won my first competition.”
Nabeel talks about his struggles and pressures after his first win and how he conquered them.
“People around me kept calling me a one-hit wonder and it stuck on me after a while. I decided to prove them wrong and I competed in the IFBB XFE Academy show in December. I did not only win this competition, but I won the overall title as well.”
He knew it was a sign his future was in bodybuilding.
“I felt a certain desire to reach greatness in this sport. I got myself a coach to reach a higher level and competed in July for the provincials in Gauteng for the IFBB. I won to qualify for the South African Championship.”
“The SAs was the most competitive show I ever competed in. I got a taste of what an international show would be like and loved every moment.
“I took first place and it was such an emotional moment for me and my team.”
He adds though the strict dieting and hard training for the six months had finally paid off, none of it would have happened without the support he received from his loved ones.
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“My mom, coach, girlfriend and best friend were the biggest supporters I had. They believed I was destined for great things and so did the rest of my family members.”
The moment he won was joyous for everyone.
“They all had tears of joy and were very proud of me.”
Nabeel’s dreams have grown bigger as he wants to grow within the sport.
“I want to win the world championship to make my country proud. The real dream would be to become an Olympian.”
