Collin Clark, a 22-year-old with Down Syndrome is just days away from achieving one of his dreams. It has been a goal of his for quite some time to enter a bodybuilding competition.
Clark works at the front desk of Bob’s Gym North in Evansville, Indiana, and caught a glimpse of Glenn Ubelhor striking poses in front of a mirror. Ubelhor, a personal trainer and professional bodybuilder, was perfecting his routine for an upcoming bodybuilding competition.
When Ubelhor finished flexing and left the room, Clark went in and imitated what he had just observed. He had wanted to be a bodybuilder ever since he was a kid and decided that it was time to make his dream come true.
It did not take long for the two of them to become friends after this event. Ubelhor trained Clark with great diligence and patience. Both of them followed a strict diet and workout plan for about a year. Collin has dropped from over 200 pounds down to 145. At the beginning of the journey he had over 30% body fat and is now under 10%.
The personal trainer states that for many individuals a transformation like this is quite uncommon, but for a 22-year-old man with Down Syndrome this journey is nothing short of amazing.
When asked about why Clark loves fitness, he gives credit to his trainer immediately. “The reason why bodybuilding is my passion is because I watch Glen. I watch bodybuilders all around the world and it inspires me to work harder and train harder.”
On November 14th, Clark’s goal will be accomplished. He will have 60 seconds to perform on stage to the song “Back in Black” by AC/DC. Ubelhor is proud of his protégée and knows that Clark is not nervous, just extremely excited.
Clark wants to encourage people all around the world. “Never give up, never quit. Try harder, push harder. And just give it your all.”