Raymond Ntoapane (54), a well-known bodybuilder from Heidelberg, is on the verge of retiring from the sport he loves dearly.
Raymond resides in Ratanda and trains at the Anabolic Gym in Heidelberg. Bodybuilding was not Raymond’s first sport.
He initially started in athletics where he competed in the track and road races. Boxing was also on Raymond’s radar at one stage and cycling was also one of his passions.
Ntoapane stopped cycling after he had a vehicle accident.
Raymond started bodybuilding in 1993. In 1996 he won his first trophy and the awards and trophies have not stopped since.
He has competed in multiple competitions around the country and has inspired a lot of athletes to achieve higher accolades.
Before Raymond retires from the sport, he has been selected to represent Free State at the upcoming Mr Universe competition that will be held in Johannesburg on October 26.
“I want to give back to the community and help the community to have a healthy body and mind. I want to encourage everyone to not fall into bad habits and the wrong crowd. Instead, get active and start participating in sport. It does not matter what sport activities they are as each one has its benefits,” said Raymond.
“Bodybuilding has taught me a lot of lessons and that includes being humble at all times and being ready to learn new things. It has brought me fame but has taught me to be disciplined and dedicated to reach higher accolades.
“My motto in life is to love what you do. Live in peace with everyone and spread happiness wherever you can.”
