SHAMSUL Ali has retained his Welsh Open crown and now has his sights set on a bigger prize.

The bodybuilder, who trains at Weymouth’s Future Physiques gym under the tutelage of Neil Hill, beat Arnold Classic competitor Richie O’Donnell on his way to victory and was delighted with his efforts.

Talking to Echosport, he said: “They merged the up to 174cm and 178cm categories, which meant I was up against 19 guys, including O’Donnell.

“So, I was dead chuffed to retain my title. I’ve been doing things very differently with my coach Neil and I am learning so much.”

The win has sent Ali through to the British finals in Nottingham on Saturday, October 8.

The bodybuilder added: “It was my main goal to qualify for the main finals.

“If I finish in the top six, I will end the year over the moon.”

After the national event, Ali will be bulking up as he hopes to realise his professional dream.

* Ali is sponsored by Future Physiques, Nutri-Go, Udo’s Choice and USN.