Spalding bodybuilder thanks fiance for ‘sacrificing’ her birthday, following latest championship win

A British world champion bodybuilder, who was once told he wasn’t going to amount to much, thanked his fiancée for ‘sacrificing’ her birthday following his latest win.

Rob Harriss of Spalding, is still on a high after his most recent achievement – which saw him secure first place in the under 70kg category at BPA Dr Vic Supershow in London.

After being asked to compete last minute, it suddenly dawned on Rob that the competition fell on his partners birthday. He said: “I asked Heather what she thought and she was very supportive and wanted me to go for it – I felt massively bad for it.

“I would never make a decision without speaking to my family. Whatever I do will affect them, but no trophy is worth them feeling unloved or unwanted – they are my main priority.”

Rob competed against four other contestants and came first place. This enabled him to enter the overall category against seven other body builders, who won first place in the under 80kg, under 90kg, under 100kg and over 100kg.

As a result of this, Rob secured fifth place and won a £300 cheque. He added: “When I was waiting for them to announce the winner I was shaking because I really wanted to win. I was over the moon when they said I won first place.

“I felt nervous going into the overall winners category because the money was on the line. Each player received a cheque depending on where they placed.

“The trophy was for me – that was my achievement, but because Heather sacrificed her birthday, I wanted her to have whatever money I won.”

The fitness fanatic, who is general manager at Snap Fitness in Pinchbeck, will be taking a short break over the festive period with his partner and daughter, after competing to set a new British record in August this year.

He added: “When you are preparing for a show you feel so tired, stressed and worn out – you end up becoming a bit of a zombie.

“It does mean the absolute world to me because I’m just a boy from Spalding who was told he wasn’t going to be much – i’m blessed and living my best life.

“This year has been a lot on my body so I will be taking a bit of time out with my family and return to training next year.”