It wasn’t the ultimate goal, but it’s still a huge step forward for vegan bodybuilder Randy Kujawa, who came home from the Iron Ore Classic with a medal after placing fifth.
Due to the way he was positioned during pre-judging, the Prince Rupert resident thought he might have the win so he and his wife, Leah, were somewhat surprised when he was called out for fifth place.
“It is still huge to come out and get a medal at a bodybuilding show. If you walk home with a medal, you’ve done a lot of things right,” Kujawa said.
In his fourth bodybuilding competition, this is the best finish for him. His weak point is his back, he says.
“In my journey, six months ago, I was not in good shape at all. I’ve really, really come a long way so it’s a huge victory for me. But there are areas I need to improve on for my next show.”
You don’t have to spend much time with Kujawa to know his true passion is a natural lifestyle and raising awareness for veganism, both of which he said were big hits at the show in Prince George.
“I was literally the buzz of the show — the vegan guy. Even the head judges were talking about it so to be one person among a large group of people to be a buzz topic, it was great. I’m just trying to create awareness that you can create a bomb physique on a plant-based diet,” said Kujawa.
He said some of the other competitors were shocked that he could look as good as he did on a plant-based diet, because it’s not normal for bodybuilding.
There will be future shows, he confirmed, but he plans to go the traditional route and compete in natural-only, tested events. In those, competitors are tested to make sure they’re not on steroids. It’s a more level playing field, Kujawa said.
Kujawa plans to spend the winter continuing to develop his physique and weak areas, and to be ready to give it his all again in the spring.
For now, he is starting his new career as a personal trainer.
He begins this new chapter of his life at The Gym this week, an endeavour he is truly excited about.
“I can really take the time to help train others and inspire others and help share my knowledge. I’m looking forward to helping inspire other people and change some lives.”
