A LOCAL man has gone three for three in prestigious bodybuilding competitions.

Ben Potter, 34, from Old Town, has recently competed in a series of major bodybuilding competitions that have taken him across the nation.

He has pushed his body to the limit, taking part in three competitions in the tall division of the Men’s Physique division in three weeks.

Despite only bodybuilding for two years, Ben’s achievements have made waves in the fitness community.

He competed at the PCA show in Telford on September 21, coming in third place.

On September 28, he competed in the FitX bodybuilding show in Manchester, placing second.

On October 5, Ben competed in another FitX competition in Leeds, earning a well-deserved gold medal.

Ben was crowned the overall winner of the championship, being presented with a dazzling gold trophy and the FitX sword trophy, symbolising his hard work.

Fitness is an integral part of Ben’s life, having played cricket semi-professionally for Hoylandswaine Cricket Club for 15 years and playing the sport since age eight.

As a keen golfer, he has transformed his sporting passion into his job, currently working as head green keeper at Barnsley Golf Club in Mapplewell.

Despite his talent and determination, Ben’s achievements this year haven’t come easily, making his triple triumph all the more impressive.

He is still recovering from two knee surgeries in January and battles multiple health conditions, including type one diabetes.

Complications with Ben’s kidneys led to kidney failure and sepsis, leading to the difficult diagnosis of kidney disease.

Preparation for Ben’s bodybuilding competitions has also been a long and gruelling process, whilst providing an outlet for his sporting passion.

Ben has a strict diet plan tailored by his coach, Rob Taylor of Muscle Unit gym, in Athersley South, who advises his nutrition and training plan and posing.

In preparation, Ben has hit the gym twice a day, seven days a week since January, despite working a full-time job.

Ben’s determination has paved the way for a bright future - as he has automatically qualified for the FitX Finals in Birmingham on November 1 and 2.

Depending on the results of his upcoming competition, Ben might win a ‘pro card’, an honour that would entitle him to compete as a professional bodybuilder.

Ben said: “It’s a proud moment to step up on stage after all your hard work.

“If you’ve put in the work, you’re representing yourself and everyone there with you.

“Without my coach and my wife, I couldn’t have done what I’ve done.”