THE roots of bodybuilding can be traced all the way back to ancient Greece. One of the most notable athletes was Olympic wrestling champion, Milo of Croton, who fables say, would carry a calf on his back every day until it became a bull, thus demonstrating a means of developing strength. The story may be apocryphal, but it well describes the enthusiasm and dedication of bodybuilders have for their sport and none more so than Glen Anil resident, Justin Thacker.
The 40-year-old recently won the Bodybuilding SA Champs (BBSA) Men’s Classic (under 171cm class) for the second successive year. He has now been selected to represent South Africa at the World Champs in Austria in November.
“I was extremely stoked with my performance. I didn’t expect to win, but my goal was to beat myself and previous scores. This year I felt I achieved that. I was more conditioned and toned then the previous year,” he said.
Justin, who is the only South African in his division, said he was looking forward to the world champs in Austria. “Last year I finished with a bronze medal and I’m hoping to go two better this year,” he said. He added motivation was a key facet of the sport and said through his bodybuilding career, he has enjoyed the support of his girlfriend, Helen.
“She’s a special girl. She’s always motivating me and that keeps me going,” he said.
