Resident Sansha Lambert exuded elegance and poise as she secured a triumphant win at the recent International Fitness and Bodybuilding (IFBB) KZN Championships. The event was held at The Junction in Kloof on Saturday, 23 August. This victory has earned Lambert a spot at the upcoming national championships in September.
Lambert took home the title in the Beach Bikini over 163cm category. Following her win, a jubilant Lambert expressed her shock, noting that this was her very first competition. Her initial goal, she said, was simply to participate and do her best, regardless of the outcome.
She also credited her partner and coach, Chad Roux-Nel, for inspiring her to channel her passion for fitness into competing. “I have always been into my gym routine and have really enjoyed the journey I have been on,” Lambert said. “I met my partner and coach, Chad, last September, who had been competing for the past 8 years. He was also an experienced coach. He motivated and inspired me to step on stage. I have always loved a challenge and I thought that doing something related to what I enjoy would be the perfect way to complete this challenge.”
As a full-time marketing manager, Lambert admitted that finding a balance between her career and her rigorous training schedule was initially difficult. However, once she found her rhythm, everything began to run smoothly. “Going into a very strict diet and intense training plan – where discipline and consistency is key – can be tough, but at the end of the day you just need to remind yourself why you are doing this and keep positive,” she advised.
Her partner and coach, Chad Roux-Nel, was visibly emotional when Lambert was announced as the winner. “With being her partner and coach, she has really motivated and inspired me,” he shared. “I’m so proud of her and her accomplishments. She works hard, puts in the hours and that’s what gets you to the top. Staying consistent and sticking to the plan.”
Looking ahead to the national championships, Roux-Nel stated that their preparation would remain largely the same. “She already has an amazing physique, so we will tidy up some of her posing,” he said. “I do believe I can get her a lot more dry for that perfect stage look. That will be our goal leading up to show day and with these changes being made, I am almost certain she will win SA champs.”
