Dill Shines In Debut Bodybuilding Competition
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Mikle Dill says bodybuilding has helped fill the sporting void left behind when he quit rugby because of medical issues.
When Dill, a former national team player, decided to hang up his rugby boots, he knew he had to find another outlet to channel his competitive spirit.
The 24-year-old began training at the Beast Gym in Hamilton, modifying a body built for power and speed as a rugby centre into that of a competitive bodybuilder.
He entered his maiden show last weekend, the NPC National Qualifier Tri-City Classic Bodybuilding Championships in Columbus, Georgia, and exceeded his expectations, finishing second in the novice class and third in the classic physique open class.
“I was shocked,” Dill told Bernews. “When they called for me for second place [in the novice], I felt utter bliss. I did so much better than I expected.
“My nerves were jangling until I first walked on the stage. Then they just left my body. It was exhilarating!”
Dill, who quit rugby last year, began preparing for the qualifiers in October last year under the watchful eye of coaches Muhsin Nasir and Ross Caesar.
“When I stopped playing rugby, I was looking for that next mountain to climb,” said Dill, who played locally for Teachers RFC.
“Growing up, I was always fascinated by bodybuilding. After quitting rugby, it seemed like the right time to throw everything at it. I’ve been training five days a week, doing cardio twice a day.”
Admitting the bodybuilding bug had bitten him, Dill will now focus on the NPC Worldwide Royal Grand Prix Bermuda Regional in September.
Dill must win his category to qualify for NPC Worldwide Caribbean Grand Prix Bahamas in Nassau in November, where he hopes to earn a much-coveted pro card.
Although he misses the team aspect of rugby, Dill said he relishes the individual challenge of sculpting his muscles to strut on stage.
“Bodybuilding is mentally challenging,” he added. “In rugby, I had a whole team to cover up my mistakes and pick up the load if I was slacking.
“In this sport, it’s you versus you in the gym every time. I must be motivated to push harder than last week and find the resolve and discipline to eat the right foods. It’s taken me to a whole new level mentally.”
