Local bodybuilder to compete in Ireland

Bodybuilder and Edenvale resident Mr Johnathan Rannachan will be representing South Africa at an international bodybuilding competition.

The 22 year old will be competing in the World Bodybuilding Championships, which will take place in Ireland during November.

Johnathan was selected for the international tournament after he won the National Amateure Body Building Associations (NABBA) and World Fitness Federation’s (WFF) South African National Championships on October 8.

“I feel honoured to represent my country,” said Johnathan.

“I didn’t really realise that I had won the show on Saturday. Your body goes through so much. After the news had sunk in I phoned my girlfriend on Sunday to tell her the good news,” said Johnathan, who also received his Springbok bodybuilding colours on October 8.

He said he has been overwhelmed by the support of family, his friends and even strangers.

Before his involvement in bodybuilding, Johnathan did cycling. When he was younger he took part in both regional and national cycle races.

“I was almost pro, I had a contract lined up, I just never signed it,” said Johnathan .

Johnathan ‘s interest in bodybuilding began when he was 16 years old.

He said he was self conscious about his chest and started going to gym.

“I was in the gym one day and I met this guy who was 160kg, with three percent body fat. I just though to myself that’s what I want to be,” said Johnathan.

Johnathan said he was able to get in contact with the person he met at the gym and began training under him.

“The more I trained as a bodybuilder the more weight I gained. The gain in weight affected my cycling so I had to choose between the two sports,” said Johnathan.

According to Johnathan, the biggest sacrifice he had to make to get where he is today was spending less time with his family.

He said he trains four hours a day seven days a week.

“My family is understanding and has been by my side the entire time. They come to all of my events,” said Johnathan.

Johnathan said his girlfriend is one of the most supportive people in his life.

“She is like my coach at home. She makes sure I stay focused,” said Johnathan.

After the competition, Johnathan will begin training all over again.

“I will start at square one again. Bodybuilding requires a good foundation in order to improve,” said Johnathan.

“It is important to remember to go for your goal no matter what. You must not let the opinions of others stop you,” said Johnathan.