Last Saturday, July 15, the bodybuilding world witnessed an extraordinary event that left us in awe at Palacio De Maynila, Malate, the same venue which had previously hosted the prestigious IFBB Nationals and Grand Prix, as well as the Batang Hipe show. But this time, it was transformed into something entirely different - it felt like a concert for bodybuilding enthusiasts!
As we entered the arena, we were immediately captivated by the massive screen stretching across the entire stage. The clever use of this gigantic display not only drew our attention to the action on stage but also loudly showcased the KG logo and upcoming categories. This thoughtful addition allowed both the audience and the athletes participating to anticipate the next breathtaking moment.
One thing that stood out about the KG Classic was the thoughtful organization for the athletes. Unlike other events that set up a side wall for access to the stage, Team KG brought the stage forward, creating a backstage area for the athletes. This arrangement enabled them to pump up and prepare out of the audience's sight until it was their time to shine on stage.
Even if you found yourself at the back of the packed venue, viewing the athletes wasn't a problem at all! The dimmed lighting, the large screen, and even the fact that the chairs were covered in black cloth all worked together to give undivided attention to the competing athletes on stage. The two massive screens by the sides showcased a live feed of the athletes performing, ensuring that KG's attention to detail made sure no one missed out on witnessing the hard work and dedication put forth by the competitors, and we truly respected and appreciated that thoughtful touch.
Clearly, the KG Classic set a new benchmark by breaking the record for the number of participants in the Men's Classic category, with an astounding 168 male athletes showcasing their talents and physiques.
The only real negative part of the entire badass event was the 2.5 hour wait between prejudging and final judging. Some audience members took the opportunity to venture to a nearby Starbucks or waited in their cars, but many decided to stay put, knowing that the wait was a testament to the event's grandeur and popularity, as well as the unprecedented lineup of athletes. Although it left the audience slightly puzzled, no one wanted to replace any of the judges, understanding the monumental task they faced in selecting the best among the best. So, while we waited, Muscle Town came to the rescue by offering ultra healthy meals at unbelievably affordable prices, ensuring that we stayed fueled for the thrilling conclusion.
The final judging commenced with the national anthem, followed by a respectable shout-out of appreciation to sponsors and athletes from the Inked Chef. It created an atmosphere of unity and gratitude, reminding us that bodybuilding is not just about competition but also a celebration of hard work and dedication by countless behind-the-scenes individuals and companies, truly making it a team effort.
The KG Classic perfectly exemplified Team KG's goal - to provide a platform for athletes to showcase their hard work and talent, in complete harmony with the values of passion and dedication that bodybuilding embodies.
As the event concluded, there was exciting news for bodybuilding enthusiasts in the Visayas region. Team KG announced the upcoming Visayas Classic, scheduled for May in Iloilo, promising yet another memorable showcase of athleticism and dedication. Additionally, they revealed plans for the next KG Classic in Manila, July 2024, leaving us already eager and excited for the next spectacular event.
Overall, the KG Classic 2023 show delivered a definite mind-blowing experience. With its concert-like atmosphere, thoughtful organization, and an impressive array of athletes, it proved to be a true celebration of bodybuilding excellence. With Team KG truly raising the bar for bodybuilding events, fans are eagerly anticipating future showcases of strength and talent, and yikes, it has been set damn high.
WINNER’S LIST
KG CLASSIC 2023
June 23, 2023
Malate, Manila
KG CLASSIC – TRUE NOVICE
1st Warren C. Dimaculangan
2nd Jethro Dinamling
3rd Roldan Cuenca
4th Joshua de Villa
5th Kevin Sean Panilagao
KG CLASSIC -- NOVICE A
1st Kim Roy Auza
2nd Kevin Racca
3rd Warren Dimaculangan
4th Jethro Dinamling
5th Domuel Nico Vizconde
KG CLASSIC -- NOVICE B
1st Jerry Perje
2nd Jimuel Eubra
3rd Dexter John Anzures
4th Joji Mangaya
5th Kevin Sean Panilagao
KG CLASSIC NOVICE C
1st Ajay Sachdev
2nd Jason Mauricio
3rd James Michael Roma
4th John Kenneth Ledesma
5th Jonjon Miniano
KG CLASSIC – TEENS
1st Arkin Laguardia
2nd Gervin See
3rd Gurpreet Singh
4th Ramos Andrei Miguel C.
5th Vincent Montemayor
KG CLASSIC -- JUNIORS
1st Jethro Dinamling
2nd. Stanley Joshua Bernardino
3rd Alvin Sardual
4th Jan Neri Sevilleno
5th Melvin Hospicio Rosa III
KG CLASSIC – MASTERS 35-39
1st Jerson Rey Castillo
2nd Roger Dionson
3rd Christopher Haganas
4th Xavier Manahan
5th Jusil Meras Suscano
KG CLASSIC – MASTERS 40+
1sr Norman A.Molina
2nd Paul Vilando
3rd Nover Pogdon
4th Lauro Quiballo
5th Marvin P. Cabas
KG CLASSIC NOVICE OVERALL CHAMPION
Kim Roy Auza
KG CLASSIC MASTERS OVERALL CHAMPION
Norman Molina
KG CLASSIC – CLASS A
1st Danilo Sullutan Jr
2nd Norman Molina
3rd John Era
4th Jayson Evangelista
5th Remington Dela Cruz
KG CLASSIC – CLASS B
1st Zandrix Rebolos
2nd Fil John Fontanilla
3rd Mike Faustino
4th Joseph Galvez
5th Andrue Lorenzo
KG CLASSIC – CLASS C
1st Earl Navarro
2nd Don Vincent Perez
3rd Franklin Diputado
4th Alvin Iledan
5th Ajay Sachdev
KG CLASSIC – CLASS D
1st Vittorio Nicolo Abines
2nd Antonio Gamalinda III
3rd John Garcia
4th Reynaldo Yumol Jr.
5th Francis Bryan Sabidong
KG CLASSIC OVERALL CHAMPION
Vittorio Nicolo Abines
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