LONDON
Two Goan bodybuilders have gained acclaim at recent tournaments in Portugal and the UK.
While Mack Fernandes stood third at a competition in Lisbon, Somesh Velguekar, owner of Impact Gym & Fitness in Goa, India, stood sixth in the finals at the International Amateur Super Show by the British Physique Alliance (BPA).
Somesh will now be joining the British Fitness and Bodybuilding Championships at Waltham Abbey Town hall in London on December 1.
MACK FERNANDES
Hailing from Navelim, Mack moved to the UK in 2015 and is currently employed as a security officer. Mack got into bodybuilding through a friend and is presently an athlete and coach.
He has won a number of medals at tournaments hosted by the British Physique Alliance (BPA), United Kingdom Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (UKBFF), and International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness Professional League (IFBB Pro League).
Mack Fernandes
Mack participated in the IFBB Portugal competition at Lisbon in the under-90 kg class for the Rui Ferreira Trophy National Championship bodybuilding competition and won the third prize. He was coached by Govind Lotliker and supported by wife Jolene Miranda.
Mack added that he was the first Goan to take part in bodybuilding in UK (2022) and Portugal (2024).
When asked about his practice and training schedule, Mack replied: “I train about 5-6 times a week, focusing on different muscle groups each day to allow for rest and recovery. Consistency is key, and I also include rest days to ensure my body has time to repair and grow.”
To another query on whether Goan youth have the potential to excel in bodybuilding, Mack was emphatic: “Absolutely. Bodybuilding is about dedication, consistency, and the willingness to push your limits. Goan youth have the potential to excel if they combine proper training, nutrition, and discipline. It’s not just about genetics but the effort you put in every day.”
When asked for his message to young Goans who may consider bodybuilding as a hobby or profession, Mack said: “My message is simple. Believe in yourself and stay committed. Whether it’s a hobby or you want to pursue it professionally, the journey of bodybuilding teaches you discipline, resilience, and self-confidence. Always remember to prioritise your health and seek proper guidance to avoid injuries.”
SOMESH VELGUEKAR
Somesh Velguekar, owner of Impact Gym & Fitness in Goa, India, stood sixth at the Amateur SuperShow men’s physique bodybuilding organised by the British Physique Alliance (BPA) in London on October 26.
For Somesh, this was his first international bodybuilding competition in the Men’s Physique category.
“This prestigious international event was a day of intense competition and extraordinary athleticism. The event provided a global platform for bodybuilders to showcase their dedication and sculpted physiques,” said Somesh.
Somesh Velguekar. Photo: IAM Lester Studios UK
Out of a field of 70 participants, including both male and female athletes, Somesh’s participation marked a significant milestone for Goan bodybuilders and highlighted the international scope of the competition, underscoring the growing prominence of Goan athletes in the bodybuilding community.
He said spectators at the BPA’s Amateur Super Show were treated to remarkable displays of strength, symmetry, and muscle definition, as competitors vied for top honours. The event also offered opportunities for networking, learning, and community engagement, bringing together fitness enthusiasts and professionals.
When asked about the motivation behind competing in London, Somesh explained, “The goal was to create an international platform for Indian and Goan bodybuilders, allowing them to participate on a global stage.”
“Impact Gym has always been committed to fitness excellence,” he added. “By partnering with BPA, we’re ensuring a professionally organised event that features various categories, accommodating different body types and experience levels. This approach makes the competition accessible to both seasoned competitors and newcomers.”
Before moving to the UK, Somesh was actively involved in bodybuilding and gym management in Goa.
“With a deep passion for this sport, I’ve always wanted to elevate the level of Goan bodybuilding to an international standard, and this show in the UK is a step in that direction,” he said.
Somesh acknowledged the support and guidance from his coach Lloyd from UK, coach Govind from Goa India’s (Infinite Gym) Coach Ashwini Kumar (Impact Gym Anjuna), and Coach Valario Fernandes UK.
Somesh has encouraged Goans to embrace this sport and support their local athletes.
“We hope Goans witness this exciting day of bodybuilding excellence and support our bodybuilders on an international stage.”
Somesh is now preparing for his next competition, scheduled for December 1, where he aims to showcase his best in Men’s Physique.
