Classic Ross finish runner-up at NABBA World Bodybuilding C/ships

Jun 10, 2014 Sports

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Guyana’s internationally acclaimed bodybuilder Hugh Arlington Ross has proved

yet again that he is in a class of his own and the best ever to come from the Land of Many Waters when he placed second in the Masters Over-50 category at the 31st NABBA World Bodybuilding Championships on Sunday last at the Waterfront Theater, Belfast Northern Ireland.
The Guyanese muscleman, who is based in the USA, came up against nine other athletes of the 15 that were registered in his category, but just nine showed up for the pre-judging on Saturday morning.
Emerging as the top athlete in the category was Gary Lister of the United Kingdom, a 9-time Mr. Universe who Ross would have defeated at these same championships in 2012. Third was Martin Holroyd of the UK followed by Herbie Chang (Northern Ireland), Bernie Cooper (UK) and Ian Laughlin (Northern Ireland).
The crowd according to Ross was not pleased with the judges’ decision, voicing their displeasure since they felt that the Guyanese should have been the winner.
Commenting on his performance, Ross said he felt that he had given a very good account of himself although he was not 100 percent and still feeling weak after cramping during the quarter turns.
That was attributed to dehydration since he had stopped taking in water 24 hours prior and also a lack of sodium which he had stopped using since last Wednesday. Fortunately he was able to administer therapy to himself immediately after his quarter turns.
He came back on stage for his routine swinging; it was flawless and done with precision to a piece he recorded using extracts from the Marathon, one of the theme songs from 300 Rise of an Empire and the remix of Under Control by Calvin Harris and Alesse featuring Hurts, his performance brought the house down.
Ross sported a 199 pound body on stage and was undoubtedly the most shredded and well prepared athlete.
He reported that after pre-judging he returned to his accommodation and reminisced on his preparation leading up to that point.
“Beyond the glitz and glamour, the fans and friends, the training partners and well wishers, one truth remains.  At its core, bodybuilding is a solitary pursuit, and only you can make the daily commitment to the training, nutrition and cardio required. The dry chicken breasts and other tasteless foods, the sometimes awful protein shakes, the arduous and repetitive lifting of thousands of collective pounds plus the resulting aches and pains day after day.
The long soul searching bouts on the treadmills and stair-masters in the wee hours of the morning while very hungry, no one can do these things for you. Every decision you make is in response to the relentless, incessant question echoing in your head – Do you have what it takes? Well, I know I do.”
Following the conclusion of the competition, Ross shared that he embarked on his usual ritual after event; taking a quiet walk in the dark back to his accommodation where he spent time giving thanks in prayers and meditation.
He informed that he has never once attended the gala, after event parties and banquet and will return to his New York home today.
Responding to the question of his performance motivating local athletes, Ross stated: “ I can only hope that my performance continue to inspire, not just our bodybuilders and other athletes but everyone.  Our younger generation should always be reminded that with discipline and dedication all of their aspirations can become realities, while our middle aged and senior populace can see what I am doing and use that as a form of encouragement to embark on even a simple exercise routine which is one of the best ways to maintain good health and longevity.”
Ross funded himself in every regard and was quick to point out that there were lots more that he needed but has learnt from experience that one of the essences of success is doing the best with whatever little you have. NABBA’s athletes are not given cash prizes.
In terms of his immediate future, Ross said: “I am eagerly looking forward to coming home from work in the afternoons, for at least the next two weeks, and alternate between gardening and bonding with the remote control in front of my TV, while enjoying small samples of a few culinary delights. I don’t even want to drive down a street that has a gym during that period.”
Ross is extending special thanks to his family, mom and siblings for their continuous support, as well as Mr. Bob Gruskin, President of NABBA USA, Minister of Culture Youth and Sport Dr. Frank Anthony, Brigadier Mark Phillips, Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force and all his brothers and sisters in Armed Forces.
Mr. Carlton Joao of DIH, Jade Beepat and the Giftland Management, Mr. Mohamed and Safraz Mohamed of City Mall, Keavon Bess – GABBFF President, HRC Committee Members, Lee Baptiste, Franklin Wilson, Alison Yhap and Dexter Garnet, Kerwin Clarke, Sylvon Gardner and Dominic Prescod and his training partners.
Also coming in for special praise were Pastor Gerald Shaw, Elder White, Ronald Fagan and Dave Smith. The following staff members of the Brooklyn Sports Club: Mathew Cofrancesco, Daniel McBeth, Morissa Micci, Christine, Leon and Chris.
Ms. Denise Richardson – Miss America and Jeff Beckham, IFBB Professional who assisted in reviewing Ross’ mandatory poses.
“I would also like to thank my boss at work, Mr. Jim Albert and my two teammates, Charles Gordon and Carlos Antomattei for understanding what I was doing. And a special thank you to my two personal helpers Vanishvar (Brian) Manorat who have been consistently there and Stefan Boyce.”

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