JAMMU, Jun 7: Andy Sabarwal emerged as the Champion of Champions at the 26th Mr. Jammu Bodybuilding Championship organized by the Body Building Association of Jammu & Kashmir (BBAJK) in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council at A.V. Resort, Sainik Colony, Jammu. The prestigious event witnessed participation from more than 130 bodybuilders from across the Union Territory, who competed in various weight categories and physique divisions.
The championship was inaugurated by Raman Bhalla, Former Minister and Chairman of BBAJK, who lit the ceremonial lamp and formally declared the competition open. Prominent personalities including Arun Sharma, President BBAJK, Dushyant Sharma, President J&K Olympic Association, Vivek Sharma, Bureau Chief State Times, Rajesh Dutta, Er. Sureshest Dutta, Vinay Sharma and other officials were present on the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Raman Bhalla emphasized the importance of balancing academics and sports for holistic development. He highlighted the growing sports culture in Jammu and Kashmir and praised athletes for bringing laurels to the region through hard work and dedication. Dushyant Sharma stressed the need for better sporting infrastructure and regular competitions to nurture young talent, while Vivek Sharma encouraged youth to stay away from drugs and adopt healthy lifestyles through sports and fitness activities.
Arun Sharma expressed satisfaction over the enthusiastic participation of athletes and reiterated the association’s commitment to promoting bodybuilding and fitness sports in the region. Rajesh Dutta and Er. Sureshest Dutta also underscored the role of sports in steering youth away from drug abuse and towards constructive pursuits.
The competition featured intense contests across multiple categories. In the 50–55 kg category, Hem Bhadur secured first place, followed by Akshay Kumar and Rajan Sharma. Akshat Sharma won the 55–60 kg title, with Ashok Kumar and Rohit Singh finishing second and third respectively. Sunil Kumar emerged victorious in the 60–65 kg category, while Anas Ahmed and Asrar Ahmed Bhat secured second and third positions.
Andy Sabarwal dominated the 65–70 kg category to claim first place ahead of Dharam Sharma and Bal Krishan. Mohit Sharma won the 70–75 kg category, while Prashant Singh topped the 80–85 kg division. In the Masters Open category, Tajinder Singh claimed first position followed by Ajay Kumar.
Prashant Singh won the Classic Physique title, while Anas Ahmed emerged winner in the Men’s Physique category. Based on his outstanding physique, symmetry, muscularity, conditioning and stage presentation, Andy Sabarwal was adjudged the Champion of Champions, earning the highest honour of the championship.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Vinay Sharma, Vice President BBAJK, who expressed gratitude to athletes, officials, judges, sponsors and supporters for making the championship a grand success.