Cornelius Hendricks has so far raised R17 000 of a required R45 000 to fly to the Netherlands next month, where he will represent South Africa at the World Championships of Natural Bodybuilding and Fitness.
But with the funding target still short and the departure date fast approaching, the 69-year-old fears that, like last year when he was selected for the same championships in Manchester, England, he may again be disappointed and have to withdraw at the last minute.
“I don’t know if I have it in me to qualify again next year when I am 70 years old. I see this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and my last chance to finally live my dream.”
The former learner of Danie Ackermann Primary and Gordon High has until Monday 10 June to raise the balance and is appealing to all and sundry to open their hearts and make this happen for him.
No stranger to bodybuilding competitions, the Gordon’s Bay resident’s most recent achievement is placing second at the national championships last year. It was also the second time Hendricks had been selected for the world championships, the previous time last year (“Gordon’s Bay body builder off to Manchester”, DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette, 8 February 2023).
He is the brother of the late Johannes Hendricks, who was well-known in body-building circles around the world, and a friend of legendary international strongman and winner of 26 IFBB professional titles, Ronald Coleman.
Hendricks feels as if he has been preparing for this moment his whole life, as it’s a big opportunity and every small sponsorship will go a long way in reaching his target.
- To get in touch with Hendricks to support him, call 074 866 9838.
