Latest POW! signing Neale Cranwell, owner of Krunch Gym in Waltham Abbey, Essex has won the World Physique Federation (WPF) Heavyweight Mr Universe Title in Italy held on 13th and 14th November 2009.
Neale competed against the best bodybuilding athletes from 11 countries including as far away as South Africa and USA to take the ultimate crown in the world of bodybuilding.
He has been competing for many years, but has had an exceptional year as he won UKBFF Midlands Heavyweight Title in October, followed by British NAC Heavyweight Champion in November, so winning Mr Universe, the pinnacle of the contests, in the same month is certainly an incredible personal achievement.
It is an even greater achievement when you know that the possibility of even competing let alone winning Mr Universe was looking unlikely when 8 months ago he was diagnosed with a fractured spine and two slipped discs. However, despite this severe setback he was even more determined to succeed and compete. Sheer determination, a positive outlook along with intense physio aided a fast recovery and allowed him to continue with the planned competitions.
Neale understands only too well how a positive outlook can be the key to success as 6 years ago he suffered a life changing set back when he was paralyzed from a motorbike accident and he was told that he would never compete again.
Neale is passionate about health and fitness and Krunch Gym members know how infectious his positive mental approach and commitment to his training is as he has inspired and supported many of them to reach their own personal goals.
Since winning the Mr Universe title he has been invited to compete on the British Team next summer at the World Championships and European Championships also to be held in Italy in June 2010.
