Sitthi “Oh” Chareonrith is not your typical sports hero. He is the first Thai to win a bodybuilding champtionship, having been named top amateur bodybuilder category at the 2005 IFBB Competition (International Federation of Bodybuilders) in Shanghai. Standing at 165 cm and weighing 80 kilos, this buff native of Surin is also a sports advisor at the Sports Authority of Thailand and owns his own gym, Power Zone Gym and Fitness, which he dreams of expanding all over Thailand. By Nuntharat Suntimaneerat

Why did you become a bodybuilder?
At first, I was good at volleyball and was an amateur player in my hometown. Then I got into weightlifting and fell in love with it. I tried to go professional, but it was hard for me because my trainers were quite selfish and taught me nothing about how to become a competent weightlifter. Eventually I discovered bodybuilding and it became my favorite sport. I learned all the skills myself through textbooks, websites and through good friends. I never thought I’d be the world champion, though. It’s such a surprise!

Tell us about your latest win at the IFBB Competition.
I actually came in second place, but the winner was later disqualified for doping, so I became the winner. As one of only two Asians, I beat out 57 competitors in the 80 kg weight category. I was so proud of my good-looking muscles, my shape and my proportional figure. It’s so hard to be a perfect bodybuilder with the serious weight loss you have to go through, the diet management and the burning of fat.

What are you judged on in the competition?
In the first round, the proportion of your muscles and your shape are considered by the judges. Onstage, the competitors need to flex their muscles along to the songs, which may vary from hip-hop, classical to rap. It’s not dancing but it’s an art. Tan, oily skin is an advantage because it looks sexy onstage.

Do you think you’re sexy?
Not really. I think I’m good-looking when I’m on show and that the audience finds me attractive—the European women especially—while others find me disgusting—mostly kids. I think it depends on their taste. Thai girls usually like guys who are Chinese-looking—tall, thin and white, which is not what I am.

What is bodybuilding like in Thailand nowadays?
Twenty years ago, bodybuilding was very popular, but it has had its ups and downs. Thais have a negative view of the sport, that it is for low-class laborers. Furthermore, the government doesn’t provide much support, even after I had won in an international competition. The Thai government should have a positive attitude about this sport. Anyway we have to try to do our best.

What’s your advice for young bodybuilders?
You need to know the basics of physical education—eating right, working out and having love for the sport. If you really love it, I’m sure that you can do well.