Young man with Down syndrome fulfills his dream by appearing in his first bodybuilding competition

November 19, 2015  12:59

He spent a year honing his physique, shedding 60lb to compete as a bodybuilder.

And on Sunday, 22-year old American Collin Clarke, who has Down syndrome, realised his dream and completed his inspirational journey with his first competition in Louisville, Kentucky.

Inside video captures the former 205-pound front desk staffer at Bob's Gym North transformed before the audience's eyes into a confident and sculpted competitor, with his first ever fifth place ranking to his name.

Delighted Collin, who was trained up by personal trainer Glenn Ubelhor after building up a strong friendship, can be seen smiling in the video as it's shot from the crowd that he's busy warming up.

He is now 145 pounds with under 10 percent body fat and therefore a viable competitor for a show of this nature.

Immaculately topped up with tan, like his fellow line-up, and showing off his new musculature in nothing but a very brief, pair of briefs, the 22-year-old is certainly strong competition. 

Ahead of the show, he was required to prepare a 60-second routine to one of his favourite tracks, in this instance AC/DC's Back In Black.

It was previously reported that Collin would compete in the novice, lightweight division and as such, he would be given no preferential treatment.

Collin was born with genetic condition known as down syndrome, which in some cases can lead to reduced muscle tone and below-average weight and length at birth.

Though bodybuilding is something that Collin has dreamed of since a young age, and something he believed to be in his blood. 

On receiving his honourable fifth place spot, the video sees Collin presented with a signed photograph, which further encouraged him to 'chase the dream.'

Collin is interviewed at the end of the video, as he explains: 'It feels incredibly amazing. When I was on that stage, all I see is the best people out there and the fans, and I saw my trainer.'

Glenn and Collin have worked together since 2014, when the 22-year-old's work within the same fitness centre saw them strike up a bond.

Fitness expert Glenn could see that Collin wanted to emulate the moves and the physique of a bodybuilder. 

Paying homage to his trainer Glenn, Collin continued: 'He motivates me and inspired me to do everything I could to be here today.'

Follow NEWS.am Medicine on Facebook and Twitter


 
  • Video
 
 
  • Event calendar
 
 
  • Archive