COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (MNTV) — Mohamed Hakim has been crowned Mr. Sri Lanka after winning the men’s heavyweight title at the country’s 77th National Bodybuilding Championships, marking a major milestone in his competitive career.
The championship, held in the coastal city of Negombo, drew more than 150 athletes from across Sri Lanka, making it one of the largest editions of the event in recent years. Hakim emerged victorious in the over-85 kilogram category, advancing through preliminary rounds before securing the overall national title.
Hakim, who currently works as a bodybuilding instructor in Qatar, returned to Sri Lanka to compete in the event after participating in last year’s national selection contest. His win underscores the growing presence of Sri Lankan athletes working abroad who continue to compete at elite levels back home.
He was awarded 250,000 Sri Lankan rupees in prize money (approximately $800) in recognition of his victory. The cash award was presented by Lasantha Amarasinghe, chairman of Chance Sports, one of the principal sponsors of the championship.
Second place in the men’s division went to Ranga Silva, representing Olympic Fitness Gym, while F. R. Faisal of Royal Fitness Centre finished third.
The event also featured a women’s Fit Model category, highlighting the expanding role of women in Sri Lanka’s competitive fitness scene. R. M. N. Sandamali, representing Transformers Fitness Centre, claimed first place, followed by teammate B. Dakshitha in second position. Suvini Sulochana of Panadura Power House Gym secured third place.
The awards ceremony was attended by senior officials from Sri Lanka’s sporting and civic institutions, including Sri Lanka National Bodybuilding Federation President Randeer Rodrigo, alongside representatives from law enforcement, municipal administration, and national sports bodies.
Organizers said the strong turnout and competitive depth reflected bodybuilding’s growing popularity in Sri Lanka, particularly among younger athletes seeking international exposure and professional opportunities abroad.
