A FEMALE all-natural bodybuilder from Winnington just crowned British Champion is now headed for the world finals.
Tracy Hogg has been competing in the British Natural Bodybuilding Federation’s (BNBF) masters figure category for five years.
The 49-year-old took up the sport as a way of overcoming low mood and other symptoms associated with perimenopause.
She says she soon discovered a raft of other physical and well-being benefits, including improved self-confidence, focus, and the promotion of an all-round healthy lifestyle.
Last year, Tracy was placed third in the British Championships, but on Saturday, September 28, the NHS physiotherapist made it to the number one slot.
It means the mum-of-two has now qualified for the World Championship, which begins on Sunday, October 20, in Munich.
Asked how it felt to be crowned British Champion, she said: “Absolutely amazing.
Tracy Hogg (right) and her daughter and number-one supporter, Charly Logan (Image: Tracy Hogg) “I’ve been competing for five years now, and every year I’ve got better, but you still never think you’ll ever get to number one.
“I’m absolutely over the moon.
“I was invited to compete in the World Championships last year, after I was place third in Britain, but it was in Sydney, Australia. Without sponsorship, it was just going to be so expensive.
“This year, the Worlds are in Germany, which is much more accessible. It will be the first one I’ve competed in.
Tracy has to maintain her less than five per cent body fat until after the World Championships on October 30 (Image: Tracy Hogg) “I’m used to competing solo, but for this next one, I’ll be part of the British team. That’s going to be a nice change. It’s lovely to feel a part of something.
“Winning does make the season that little bit longer though. At the moment, I’m around five per cent body fat, and I’ll have to maintain that until after the next competition.
“If I hadn’t won, I’d be bulking already. Now I’ve got a few more weeks without cake.”
Tracy (centre) with coach and partner, Nigel Collyer (left) and daughter, Charly Logan (Image: Tracy Hogg)
Tracy, who is still self-funding despite being a World Championship contender, is on the lookout for sponsorship from local businesses who can offer financial support or services.
She added: “It just cost so much to be properly competitive. It’s not just the competition entry fees, flights, taxis, hotels.
“It’s also things like tanning, make-up, hair, nails, bikinis, shoes, protein, supplements, gym fees. The list is endless.
“I can advertise for sponsors through social media, and wear branded kit for training.
“I also post workouts every single day on Insta and Tiktok, so I have a lot of reach.
“I promote as much as possible.”