Firefighter Kevaune Thomas took home the top prize in the men’s division at the 2026 Jamaica Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (JABBFA) Championships held in St. Andrew. At just 27 years old, Thomas has been a firefighter for over six years. He clinched first place in the Men’s Physique (tall class) and the Overall Men’s Physique title.
Thomas shared that his victory came from resilience and hard work. After falling short last year, he and his coach, Richardo Daniels, went back to the drawing board. “I felt very excited and pleased because of the hard work I put in over the past year,” he said.
Juggling a demanding job as a firefighter with training wasn’t easy. After long shifts, he would hit the gym. Consistency, mental strength, and focus were key for him. His well-defined abs and overall physique set him apart.
Diet was another challenge. “It gets hard during competition season. I had to give up fast food, sweets, parties, and alcohol,” he explained. Yet, the effort was worth it in the end.
Thomas encourages young men interested in bodybuilding. “If you’re interested, go for it. It’s not an easy sport, but the satisfaction of achieving your goals is incredible.”
As he prepares for the national championships and an upcoming international show, Thomas is ready to work harder. “It’s back to the drawing board. We’re going to fine-tune my physique and aim for more,” he stated.
In the women’s division, Kemi Richardson, a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Montego Bay, impressed everyone with her performance. Competing against others who had home crowd support, she worried at first but soon found her footing. “The victory was special,” she said. “I had to push through pain and break away from my shy introverted self. The girl I used to be would be proud of who I am now.”
Richardson maintained a strict regimen: training four days a week, waking up at 5 a.m., and preparing six meals each night. Even when her body fought back just a week before the competition, she stayed committed. “I trusted the process and kept showing up every day,” she noted. This experience taught her resilience, proving that consistency can carry you through tough times.
She encourages Jamaican women to pursue their passions. “You don’t have to be the loudest to achieve greatness. Start where you are, stay consistent, and trust yourself. Over time, you’ll build not just your body, but your confidence, too.”
These athletes show that dedication, discipline, and resilience can lead to great achievements, both on and off the stage. For more information on bodybuilding and fitness in Jamaica, visit JABBFA.
