MEN’S CLASSES

Ross, who first competed as a teenager in 2015, didn’t tell his family he was going to compete in Northwich.
“This was a bit of a secret show. I just wanted to keep it a bit low key and do it for myself,” he said.
The secret was out as soon as he walked on stage in the under-90s. He combined shape and conditioning in an immaculate performance to win in arguably the toughest class of the day.
Ross, who was a personal trainer for 11 years before setting up his online coaching business two years ago, said:
“I was backstage when I heard the result and my jaw hit the floor. I’m just going to see how far I can go in the sport. I love the process, I love the lifestyle so I can’t imagine never doing it.”
Jamie Daniels pushed Ross hard in the weight class with a similarly complete package, while Daniel McCullough in third was ridiculously peeled and fourth-placed David Cray had impressive size.
Daniel, who had to catch an overnight ferry from Northern Ireland to take part after his flight was cancelled, had the consolation of winning the novice bodybuilding with his shredded glutes and hamstrings.
Ross’ biggest threat in the overall was Cameron Cleaver, who has a superb classic structure. Cameron was far from his sharpest, but the fact that he still won the over-90kg bodybuilding and challenged for the overall tells you how good he is. His shape, especially his legs, along with his posing and confidence made him a formidable contender.
Robert Schofield’s superior shape and balance earned success in under-80kg bodybuilding.
In the masters classes, Keith Baggaley’s better conditioning prevailed over Chris Unitt’s structure in the over-50s. Chris looked excellent from the front but the rear poses cost him.
David Cray was too big for his rivals in the over-40s.
Men’s physique open was the hardest class to judge. All four guys were ripped but presented contrasting looks. Runner-up Andrew Barkes had a granite upper body and was easily the most muscular. His look was borderline bodybuilding but his quality was not to be denied as he took first place. Daniel Kerr’s excellent taper took second place, with a much-improved Murad Reesh and Alwaleedi Ali sharing third spot.
Murad’s healthy look won the over-40s men’s physique category. The over-50s was another tough one to call due to the wide range of looks but the remarkable Mark Owens, who is 66, claimed first place due to his tight midsection.
Daniel Kerr’s sharp, nicely flowing physique was victorious in novice men’s physique while James Sumner’s muscular, well-groomed look helped him win fit model.