Xyleese shines at nationals (From Worcester News)

Xyleese shines at nationals

3:33pm Thursday 25th October 2007 in Sport

WORCESTER'S Xyleese Richards has a double reason for celebration.

Richards finished third in the women's heavyweight over 52kg class at the UK British Bodybuilding Federation Championships in Nottingham.

She has only recently switched from body fitness shows to bodybuilding contests.

Richards then married Martin Burford in Upton-upon-Severn before heading to Florida for their honeymoon.

They will both fly the flag for Worcester at the British Championships next year.

Burford put the 2007 event on ice to give him more preparation time for the light heavyweight under 90kg class.

Richards said: "It was a massive achievement for me.

"I was competing against a very high standard of women, some were from the World Championships and have been training for many years.

"Everyone agreed that with another year's training I will bring the British Championship crown back in 2008."

The duo have been training in Gold's Gym on their honeymoon which is the old base of Arnold Schwarzenegger.