In his first ever competition, Riley Kerr was crowned a state and national champion.
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The Year 10 Bowral High student recently competed at the International Federation of Body Building and Fitness (IFBB) Australian Nationals at the Sharks League Club in Cronulla.
He competed in the physique category of juniors (under-23), teenage (under-18) and the open age divisions.
In spite of being the youngest competitor at the national event, Riley finished with a bronze medal in the Junior Men’s Physique and was crowned the 2018 State Champion and 2018 National Champion with a gold medal in the Teenage Men’s Physique.
Riley said he was the youngest IFBB Australia champion.
He travelled up to Sydney the day before the competition for a workshop where he was told by organisers they believed he was ready for competition and sponsored him for two events.
“On Saturday I had no intentions of competing. It was really cool and really spontaneous. I’m still in shock,” he said.
“Sunday (October 21) was a really big eye opener and it inspired me heaps.”
He first got into bodybuilding almost two years ago as a way to improve his strength and fitness.
It was really cool and really spontaneous. I’m still in shock
- Riley Kerr
Riley said the physique category was about symmetry and proportion where competitors were judged on everything from their personality and smile to how well they held themselves and posed- as opposed to bodybuilding which was more focused on how big and muscular a competitor is.
Competitors did four quarter turns on stage with their entire age category before coming back out on stage by themselves.
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Riley said he planned to take part in his next competition in March 2019.
His current training includes a daily program in which the reps and sets change each day with a focus on strength.
Riley said in preparation for upcoming competitions, he would work on being more strict about his training and diet.
He trains at Anytime Fitness in Bowral after school, usually between an hour and a half and two hours, with his meal preparation done each Sunday night.
And while he’s enjoyed his recent wins, the road to success has not been easy for Riley.
He has had to contend with lower body injuries- including a year long ankle injury.
Riley thanked his mum for her constant support.
“My mum is like a superhero. She has always just pushed me to do the best I can without pushing too hard and she’s always been there.
“I owe it all to her for sticking by me.”
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