Video: Bodybuilder Kyle Webb Wins In Australia
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Kyle Webb surprised even himself after securing three podium finishes – including two victories – at the IFBB Gold Coast Championships in Queensland, Australia, this month.
Making his debut in the Bodybuilding category, Webb claimed titles in the Men’s First-Timers and Novice classes and placed third in the fiercely competitive Open Heavyweight division.
The former sprinter, who represented Bermuda at the 2018 Commonwealth Games – also held on the Gold Coast – said his third-place result was the most rewarding, given the calibre of athletes he was up against.
It marked his first competition since the IFBB Queensland State Championships in 2022, where he placed third in Classic Physique Novice and second in the First-Timers class.
“It was surreal and nerve-wracking,” Webb told Bernews. “I had hoped to win three medals but knew I would have to go to war.
Photograph by Renee Oliver
“Bodybuilding was a new category for me after two-and-a-half years and healthy growth.
“I was surprised to win the two classes, but my biggest accomplishment was finishing third in the open class as I was up against a stacked field of athletes who had been doing this for years.”
Since relocating to the Gold Coast five years ago – a hotbed for bodybuilding – Webb has transformed his physique from one built for sprinting into that of a competitive bodybuilder.
He credits DeVon Bean, the Bermuda National Athletics Association director of athletics and a former Olympian turned Mr Bermuda in 2015, as his inspiration.
Despite briefly considering retirement after his recent show, Webb says his strong showing has reignited his competitive fire.
“In a sense, I’ve found a love for the stage, knowing my capabilities,” said Webb, who is coached by Ryan Ackermann.
“I was pushed into fourth place at one point, and when that happens sometimes people accept their fate.
“I was a man on a mission, though, and was pushed back into third. That was the best moment of my day for me.
“The first time I watched the video, I cried. It was very emotional.
“I want to come back bigger, better and more dangerous. I know I’ve got some work to put in.”
