Babb continues dominance with landmark Linden Classic victory

Shakeel Babb continues to make waves on the One Guyana Bodybuilding Competition Tour, cementing his place among the country’s rising bodybuilding stars after becoming the first-ever Linden Classic champion.
The historic victory adds to an already-impressive season for Babb, who previously captured the Battle of the Rising Stars 2 Novice Competition title. With two victories now under his belt, the talented bodybuilder has established himself as one of the most dominant competitors on the circuit, drawing attention from fans and fellow athletes alike.
Despite the significance of the achievement, Babb remains humble about his success.
“I’m not very sure of my feelings towards this in particular,” he reflected. “Across both competitions, my focus was mostly on maintaining my discipline leading up to them and expressing it on stage, as well as taking on the new experiences and challenges. Seeing the other participants’ efforts and emotions be expressed as well. Just being a part of that moment. That’s what I loved about the competition.”
Babb credits much of his success to the support he has received throughout his journey and his commitment to continual growth.
“Overwhelming support from even the most unexpected of sources, as well as the willingness to learn and have fun,” he said when asked about the key factors behind his winning streak.
While his victories may suggest a dominant path to the top, Babb acknowledged the quality of competition he faced at the Linden Classic. Although he strives to bring his best regardless of who shares the stage with him, several competitors stood out.
“I try to bring out my best regardless of who’s on the stage with me; however, those who I had most particularly noted were #11 Raheem and #18 Ryan of the bodybuilding classes and my friend, Akini Mars, whom I went head-to-head with in the Classic Physique overall,” Babb explained.
As the bodybuilding community turns its attention to the Essequibo Classic scheduled for September 13, many are wondering whether Babb’s reign will continue. Yet the newly-crowned champion appears more focused on personal growth and enjoying the experience than on maintaining a winning streak.
“My goal was mainly to have fun, observe what the fruits of my three-day prep would bear and to see who would be participating,” he said of his mindset heading into competition.
With history already made in Linden and momentum firmly on his side, Shakeel Babb’s journey is quickly becoming one of the most compelling stories in Guyanese bodybuilding.