Last month, Mitch Hunt of Gibsons shook things up on the national bodybuilding stage at the Vancouver Pro Qualifier, stepping into one of the most fiercely competitive Men’s Physique lineups of the season.
Despite being entirely self-coached, Mitch battled neck-and-neck with the top contender in his class, ultimately securing a standout second-place finish.
What made this performance especially noteworthy was the calibre of competition. The athlete who edged out Hunt went on to sweep first place across five height classes, earning the prestigious International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) Pro Card. That means Mitch didn’t just take second — he challenged the very best of the best.
Unlike many competitors at nationals who are backed by high-profile coaches and meticulously planned training systems, Hunt continues to defy convention. With no coach, posing guidance or prep team, he has now made three appearances at nationals, each more impressive than the last: third place, then second, and now a razor-close second against the show’s overall champion.
“This one felt different,” Hunt shared. “To go toe-to-toe with the guy who ended up dominating the whole show... it shows how close I really am to moving into the professional league.”
Mitch also shares that one of the biggest challenges he faces is training in a small town with limited access to proper equipment and resources. “There’s no one around doing what I do,” he explains. “I don’t have a training partner, and there aren’t many people locally who truly understand this sport. While a few others are active in the female category here, I’ve had to rely on connecting with others online — sharing tips, advice, and strategies to keep improving and pushing forward.”
Following 18 grueling weeks of prep across two high-level competitions, Mitch Hunt is set to take a well-deserved break — giving his body the time it needs to recover, rebuild, and grow stronger — with plans already set to return next season for another crack at the IFBB Pro Card.
Winning an IFBB Pro Card in Canada is tough. There are only three national shows each year, while the U.S. has them nearly every few weeks. Canadians can also enter three U.S. shows, but all six events happen surrounding the summer or right in the middle of it—making it tough for athletes who have to spend the season dieting and prepping. Plus, Americans can compete in Canadian shows too, adding even more competition. That’s why earning a card here is such a rare and respected achievement.
