Baptism of fire

Olympia Rookie Ryan John-Baptiste is ready to rumble in men’s physique.

- John Plummer

ASK MOST BRITISH PHYSIQUE FOLLOWERS to name a top competitor called Ryan and most will reply with Ryan Terry. But Britain has another Ryan in this year’s Men’s Physique Olympia. Ryan John-Baptiste turned pro after winning the British Championships in 2014. He won the San Marino Pro at the end of 2015 and will compete in his first Olympia in 2016. Progress doesn’t get more rapid than that. John-Baptiste may be the lesser known of the two Brits, but he is well equipped to make his mark.

FLEX: what was your reaction to qualifying for the olympia?

Ryan John-Baptiste: When they moved me into the middle at the San  Marino Pro, I’m not going to lie—my heart started to pound. I could feel it echoing through my body. I realised then I had a good chance of winning. When they announced me in first, I felt like I was floating. I was stunned. I trained hard, but just didn’t expect it, especially as I was beaten a week earlier by the second and third place competitors.

How has your life changed? 

Since qualifying for the Olympia, Ihave been able to work for myself. I now help others get ready for competing so I can focus on this and prepping full time for Vegas. 

What are you looking forward to most about las Vegas?