UK MASTERS SHINE IN SPAIN

by John Plummer

A total of 430 athletes from 93 countries competed at the IFBB World Masters Championships in Spain.

Stamford gym owner Nick Swann was sixth in the over 55s bodybuilding category, which had so many competitors – 45 – it had to be split into three weight divisions..

Nick, who won the Arnold Classic Europe last year, was the lightest in the over 90 kg line-up, tipping the scales at 91 kg.

But his quality shone through as he fought his way into the first call-out of 14 mass monsters.

Such was the interest in masters bodybuilding, the IFBB is considering adding an over 60s class next year.

Hajnalka Lipcsei.

Two-time British champion in masters bikini fitness Hajnalka Lipcsei also flew the flag with distinction, finishing ninth of 23 - a fantastic result for her first year of international competition.

Lisa-Marie Graham (right) was fifth in the IFBB Masters Elite World Championships.

The event also included the IFBB Masters Elite Pro World Championships, which featured UK bikini fitness competitors Lisa-Marie Graham and Kat Jacubcova, with Lisa-Marie finishing fifth.