Phnom Penh representative Tek Bunvy walked away with the best physique honours in the Angkor Bodybuilding Association’s (ABBA) second annual competition that concluded late Saturday evening in Siem Reap’s Angkor Century Hotel.

Competing in the over 70 kilograms category, the 1.74-metre-tall Bunvy got the judges’ nod for his impressive muscular proportion and symmetry to score over two local favourites Heng Bunneang and Mam Langdy.

As many as 22 bodybuilders from Siem Reap, Battambang and Phnom Penh took part in this day-long event, which was spread over three categories.

The highlight of the show was the presence as special guests of two internationally acclaimed bodybuilders Jonas Younes Laroussi and Maria Ingelis Carsward who posed to the delight of hundreds of spectators.

The day’s cultural show included a Bokator exhibition and Cambodian and Korean dance performances.

“Some of the participants in each category have the potential to compete in international events although they need to learn more about secrets on how to prepare themselves to win a competition,” said Jonas Younes Laroussi, who finished third in the IBBF Classic last year.

Meanwhile, the ABBA is contemplating a Health Fitness Fair to raise awareness among the public. According to ABBA President David a fair like this would provide an opportunity for the public to know more about health products, health services and fitness facilities in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

The results:

Under 60kg

1. Ngoun Sophan (Siem Reap) 1;
2. Seng Thea (Phnom Penh) 2;
3. Horn Senghor (Siem Reap) 3.

60 to 70 kg

1. Ruos Sophorn (Siem Reap) 1;
2. Cheap Vanny (Phnom Penh) 2;
3. Set Sovanny (Siem Reap) 3.

Over 70 kg

1. Tek Bunvy (Phnom Penh) 1;
2. Heng Bunneang (Siem Reap) 2;
3. Mam Langdy (Siem Reap) 3.

To contact the reporter on this story: H S Manjunath at [email protected]