Mike Wight has qualified for the Physical Culture Association British Finals after winning his category at his first-ever PCA competition.
The Isle of Wight bodybuilder travelled to Aldershot on Sunday to compete in the Physical Culture Association (PCA) championships, where he took top spot in the Mixed Disability category and secured an invitation to the British Finals in Telford this October.
The achievement came after a difficult year for Michael, who has recently been diagnosed as visually impaired and has also overcome another bout of skin cancer. At one stage, he feared he would be unable to compete this season.
Speaking exclusively to Island Echo, he said:
“Getting invited to compete at the British Finals is a huge achievement for me with the challenges I have overcome in my life to get there.
“This year has not been easy. I’ve recently been told I’m visually impaired and I’ve also overcome another lot of skin cancer.
“At one point I honestly didn’t think I would be able to compete this year.
“Never let anything stop you achieving your dreams.”
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Winning the Mixed Disability category marked a successful debut on the PCA stage for the Island athlete, who admitted it took several days for the achievement to fully sink in.
After reflecting on the competition, Michael said he was overwhelmed by the support he had received from friends, family and fellow bodybuilders throughout his journey.
He paid particular tribute to his coach, William George, who has worked closely with him throughout his development in the sport.
Michael said:
“I have to say a massive thank you to William George for standing by me from day one and never ever doubting my ability to succeed in this sport.
“I always remember when you told me after our first session that we couldn’t train together, and now we’re training 4 or 5 times a week, if not more.
“Thank you for always believing in me and helping me become the athlete I am today.”
The Islander also thanked everyone who attended the event in Aldershot, as well as those who sent messages of support and encouragement before he stepped on stage.
Michael added:
“I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported and believed in me from day one.
“Whether you came to support me in person, video-called me, sent messages of encouragement or simply followed my journey, thank you.”
He also praised the PCA’s official tanning and make-up team for their support throughout the competition weekend.
Despite already securing his place at the British Finals, Michael’s season is far from over. He is due to compete again at a bodybuilding show in Kettering in 6 weeks’ time before heading to Telford for the national finals in October.
Looking ahead, he remains determined to build on his success.
Michael said:
“This is only the beginning.
“We’re just getting started.”
