BODY BUILDING NEWS - Local police officer Captain Natasja Jansen van Vuuren isn't just a top cop and a pretty face, but has recently reached one of her greatest achievements in her bodybuilding career.

On 30 September she participated in the United Intercontinental Bodybuilding Fitness Federation (UIBFF) Puma Classic in Germiston where she was victorious in the two classes she entered and was also awarded her Elite Pro Figure UIBFF status.

"By end of the day I won the Figure Class as well as the Overall Figure line-up," she said. 

"Then for the big moment, I was awarded my Elite Pro Figure UIBFF status. This is the highest qualification you get and separates you from the amateurs. You can only compete against other pros and these shows are mostly overseas."

Jansen van Vuuren started her bodybuilding career in 2018. In June that year she competed in her first show with coach Addington Mondo by her side.

In 2021 she transitioned from Bikini Class to Figure Class from where she developed into the pro athlete she is today.

"Coach Addi knew what my goal was and we worked towards it. Training schedules, meal plans and the emotional prepping was a daily routine," she said. 

"Bodybuilding teaches you self-respect, responsibility, being a team player, endurance, sportsmanship, healthy eating habits, self-discovery, self-confidence and to be a role model. I thank the Lord for health and being by my side every second of the day; coach Addi, who goes above and beyond to get me stage ready; my fiancé Grant Colson; my daughter Chané, granddaughter Bellah and my entire family and all my friends who support me at every show."

It doesn't stop here for this female powerhouse. She plans to attend the World UIBFF Pro Championship in the UK in November next year.

"To be a UIBFF Elite Pro Figure athlete is a huge title to be awarded and I will carry it with honour. My motto in life is to stay consistent, be disciplined and most importantly, stay humble."

Five years of hard work has paid off for Jansen van Vuuren.

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