‘Robocop’ makes dream debut in DC
MONTHS after switching to the International Physique and Fitness Association (IFPA) and in his first competition as a professional, 43-year-old Henry “Robocop” Graham made a dream debut winning the heavyweight division of a world championships in Washington DC, USA,
last month.
In the November 12-14 Yuton Cup World Championships, Henry won the heavyweight title ahead of 14 other professional bodybuilders who, according to him, were “in top condition and well prepared”.
The five-time Mr Jamaica Bodybuilding champion, who believes he has been a victim of poor judging in the past, especially in the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Championships, said “the judging was really fair” as on the first day they sized up “the physique” of their competitors in keeping with their name.
“The best man with the best shape, best physique, best balance, symmetry in the competition, is the one who is going to come out on top,” Henry emphasised.
Since winning the Universal Muscle Classic in Cayman in June to clinch his pro card, and brought to the attention to world bodybuilders in
the IFPA’s magazine in
the summer, Henry’s presence in Washington DC was eagerly anticipated.
There in the US capital, having competed for more than 20 years, Robocop scanned his rivals, adding: “From my experience, I could tell that I would be in the top three. I’m not gonna say that I would positively win.”
But win he did.
His competition finishing early, Henry headed back to his hotel room and reflected on
his victory.
“It was a very good feeling and I just look forward to competing some more and try to make some money,” added the seven-time Mr Jamaica Heavyweight champion.
His next competition is June in the Cayman Islands, which gives him enough time to get into even better shape.
“I want to improve on my physique,” he emphasised.
With a second-place finish in 2004 and the heavyweight title in 2006 at the CAC Championships, Henry’s only regret was that he did not switch from the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) “from a long time” to the IFPA.
He gave “nuff respect” to Tiger Wilson, who has been encouraging him to switch over to the IFPA from
the 1990s.
A personal trainer and fitness guru, Henry will
spend just a few more
years competing professionally before retiring. The married father of two wants to feature in health and fitness products, highlighting the importance of staying healthy.
His manager Dean Shaw noted: “I am trying to get Henry the recognition he deserves and trying to get the Ministry of Sport behind him.
“We’re in need of sponsorship to assist with supplements, as well as funding to compete overseas. Henry competes with the best bodybuilders in the world and is an ideal marketing tool for companies and the country,” he pointed out.
For Henry, “Bodybuilding is not just about building muscles; it’s also about health and it has helped me to be young and agile.”