A Maple Ridge personal trainer has made a splash in his first bodybuilding competition, winning first place in three different categories.

Brianna Campardo entered her first competition on April 23 as part of the 2023 Vancouver Island Pro/Am Showdown in Victoria.

This Canadian Physical Alliance contest features male and female bodybuilders displaying their bodies in categories ranging from fitness to bodybuilding.

Campardo entered the bikini section of the competition, where she placed first in three categories – real rookie, c class, and overall winner.

“I have never felt so strong and confident in my life,” said Campardo.

“To win this competition you need the complete package, bikini and heels, even makeup and hair, good make up and hair, and a perfect physique with a major focus on buttocks and strong shoulders. You need to take a package to a stage where it stands out compared to other packages.”

She explained that she faced seven other first-time bikini competitors in the true beginners category, and another six in the class c category, which is for women between 5’5″ and 5’6″.

By winning the class c category, Campardo qualified for the overall winner category, where he once again qualified by finishing first.

For me, it’s not just about winning,” he said. “It means all the hard work pays off and there is no better feeling than succeeding at something you worked really hard for.”

Now that his first competition was a resounding success, Campardo already has plans to work towards something bigger – earning the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro Card.

“My plan is to compete for my Pro Card first at the Toronto Pro SuperShow in June and then at the Vancouver Pro Show next July,” he said.

Once Campardo has a Pro Card, he will be able to compete in higher caliber competitions and get better sponsorship opportunities.

But for now, the next challenge will be the Toronto International Pro Qualifiers, held on Saturday, June 3.