SIBU: The 58th Mr Sarawak Bodybuilding Championship culminated in a thrilling finale yesterday as Farrokh Ibtisam Ting was crowned the coveted ‘champion of champions’.
The event, officiated by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, saw fierce competition among the state’s top bodybuilders.
Farrokh, a 40-year-old laboratory technician from Sibu Hospital, showcased his extraordinary physique and skill, securing the top spot in the Senior Bodybuilding Category for competitors over 75 kilogrammes (kg).
Reflecting on his victory, Farrokh expressed his surprise and delight.
“I was quite surprised as I didn’t expect it. Maybe it’s what you call luck, especially since it was held in my hometown,” he said.
This victory marks his second consecutive win in this category, having also triumphed last year in Kuching.
The championship, organised by the Sibu Division Bodybuilding and Weightlifting Association (SDBWA), drew 42 participants from the Miri, Sibu, and Kuching zones, making it a highly competitive event.
Farrokh acknowledged the tough competition, noting the high calibre of participants this year.
“The competition was very intense due to the many strong participants. I am grateful for the opportunity to compete again despite my advancing age,” he added.
Among the standout moments of the championship was the Women’s Open Category, where Ong Shih Ling emerged victorious, with Tina Nubib taking second place, both representing Kuching.
The Sports Physique Category saw Ahmad Alif Mohamad Merah from Sibu dominated the Under 170 Centimetres (cm) Class, while Mohd Nasriq Tambi from Kuching claimed the title in the Over 170cm Class.
In the Athletic Physique Category, Chong Hien Yung from Miri excelled in the Under 167cm Class, with Muhd Azzrul Safare from Sibu won the Over 167cm Class.
Miri’s Hamizan Zaudin was a standout competitor, winning two prestigious titles: The Masters Category (45 Years and Above) and the Senior Bodybuilding Over 65kg Category.
His teammates also delivered impressive performances, with Ranovich Mathew and Sariewin Mudim securing the champion and runner-up positions, respectively, in the Senior Bodybuilding Under 65kg Category.
The 58th Mr Sarawak Bodybuilding Championship was a testament to the dedication and hard work of Sarawak’s bodybuilding community, showcasing the state’s best talent in a thrilling and competitive environment.