By Gary Chappell
MEN'S Physique athlete Marcus Privett says he will leave no stone unturned in a bid to become a "top-five Olympian" after finally winning his IFBB pro card.
The 31-year-old from Essex achieved his goal in his first attempt of the season – the NPC Sweden Grand Prix – having shrugged off digestive issues in his regional qualifier earlier in the month.
Despite his young age, Privett is an experienced competitor, having won several titles during his career. But the IFBB pro card is one target that had eluded him. Until now.
He said: "I cannot even put it into words. It has just been one crazy, crazy year. I had a problem with digestive issues at my regional qualifier, so I didn't place where I wanted to place [finished fourth]. That knocks your confidence because it's the worst placing I've ever had.
"But my coach had faith that I have what it takes to be a pro and I've always had it in my head that I've had the right physique to become pro after years and years of improvements, listening to the judges' feedback.
"So Sweden was the place I got it and was finally awarded with my pro card in a very stacked class with people from all over the world.
"There was about 60 people altogether doing men's physique and I'm honoured that I beat everyone to become a pro. There was a lot of people going for it [pro card] who had travelled from all over the world. And I was lucky enough to get it. I say lucky, but I have worked hard and tirelessly for years and years for this moment."
Privett, who owns The Muscle Market, a supplement shop in Grays, Essex, was unable to train for a number of months last year due to personal issues. But the former Love Island contestant got straight to work as soon as he could. And he put in plans to qualify at the 2Bros Kingdom Classic, before travelling to Sweden.
He said: "I've had a very crazy year and it would have been very easy to give up. But I refused, regardless of people wanting me to stop, or being put off, or getting a lot of hate. Now I can see that those people see me as a threat.
"I have had some great comments from professionals – fellow professionals – and from some judges saying I've got what it takes to do well in the pro leagues.
"So after a few days' downtime, I'll liase with my coach, then make sure I'm one of the best UK athletes. I want to become a top five Olympian. That is my goal and I will not stop until I get there. Regardless of however long it takes me, that is what I want to do.
"I'm just going to keep my head down and let my work do the talking. But I am very happy – although that does not even come close to how I'm feeling. It's not really sunk in yet but I am very excited for the future."
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