MEN’S CLASSES

Mathew Barry, an ex-rugby player from Merthyr Tydfil who left the army 10 years ago, was the star of the show. Mathew started his day by winning masters bodybuilding aged 40- 49 category, which was arguably the toughest of the day. The six-strong line-up included the monstrous Jim Georgiou, whose imposing size draws eyes as soon as he walks on stage, and four more outstanding physiques.

But none could match Mathew’s condition and balance. His thick, dense 91kg physique was impressively complete from all angles, making him the standout winner. He then went on to win the over-85kg bodybuilding class and then defeat six other class winners in the overall line-up to take home the overall champion’s sword.

Mathew, 47, who now works as a health and safety officer for a film and TV company, said:

“This is my first overall. I’m in shock because that over-40s class was tough.”

In the 50-59 years old masters bodybuilding, big Nick Lewis overcame the well-defined Sean Ferguson. Over 60s winner Shaun Thomas presented a polished and complete physique. Shaun is one of the most accomplished bodybuilders in his age group in the country.

Rafal Kwiatkowski overcame Christopher Shaw in under-85 kg bodybuilding and Paul King was the pick of four competitors in classic physique.

Men’s physique saw Shiraz Mirza return to the stage for his 50th competition at the age of 50. Remarkably, Shiraz didn’t compete until he was 46 but he seems to have quickly worked out how his body works, as he always turns up looking fresh, lean and ready. Shiraz won the over-50s and the open height class.

Mark Winder was the other big winner in men’s physique. He took the five-man 40 to 49 years old class and then won the fit model class to double up.

Martins Laksevics took the to 35 -39 years old line-up and Rowan Logue’s thickly muscled upper body and impressive abs won the novice men’s physique division.