Strongmen win gold
Breidbach pair muscle in on titles
TWO Breidbach-based bodybuilders are flying the flag for their community after winning gold medals in their respective weight categories at the 30th annual Mr and Miss Physique Championships at the Billy Francis Hall in East London over the weekend.
Andrè Thompson won the under 70kg division while Jamie Alexander walked away with the gold medal in the teenage division.
More than 30 athletes participated in the drawcard tournament which saw Alphendale bodybuilding trainer and founder of the event Elwin Pretorius finally hanging up his training gear.
Both Thompson and Alexander are members of the Breidbach-based Absolute Fitness Gym situated in owner and trainer Samuel Casey’s mother’s backyard.
Casey told the GO! & Express he was very excited with the performances of his athletes after winning their respective divisions.
“We worked around the clock in preparation for the event as it was very special to me and I am delighted how my athletes stood their ground,” said Casey.
For his debut, Thompson pulled out all stops to beat Ulrich Marx of East London who was placed sixth at the South African Championships in 2013.
Thompson never thought he would win in his wildest dreams. “Casey told me that I will compete against a former SA champ but to keep my head high and not to doubt my capabilities and it’s exactly what I did,” he said.
“I have no words other than to say a big thank you to Casey for the opportunity given to me to showcase my talents. The achievement will serve as motivation and encouragement in going forward.”
Breidbach Secondary Grade 10 pupil Alexander, also brought a smile to his trainer’s face when was judged winner in the teenage division.
“I attribute my success to the hard work, commitment and dedication our trainer has put in to assist us in making sure we are grounded to doing something positive in our lives,” he said.