Bodybuilding queen eyes future international success

The 40-year-old said she had been left more determined than ever to fulfill a dream which up until two years ago had not even entered the Drumlish native's mind.

Orla was one of twenty-two Irish competitors who took part in the IFBB European finals in Santa Susanna, north of Barcelona last Saturday.

Prior to her apperance on stage, Orla had been hoping for a top ten finish in either or both of the categories she was due to compete in.

And despite a solid showing which saw Orla return with 14th and 17th placed finishes in the Master Women's Bodyfitness and Bodyfitness up to 168cm sections, she is looking ahead to returning to training following a short and well deserved break.

“It was an unbelievable experience and though things didn't go 100 per cent to plan, I really enjoyed it,” se said.

The sister of Fine Gael Cllr Paraic Brady admittedthe professionalism and standard of competition, while imposing, was one that will stand her in good stead ahead of her return to competitive action over the weeks and months ahead.

“I was nervous when I went out first and the lights were really strong, but I definitely felt more comfortable in the second (class),” she said.

Orla's sudden emergence onto the European and international bodybuilding spectrum is nothing short of extraordinary.

Having made the conscious decision to lose weight more than two decades ago, Orla's body transformation later saw her lose a staggering 36 kilos in just 18 months.

“After my mam and dad passed away, I piled on the weight, but it is best decision I ever made,” she said.

The fruits of those exploits has seen the amiable north Longford woman take out no fewer than five different gym memberships and lift weights five times a week in her bid for bodybuilding immortality.

It's a remarkable turnaround and one you get the feeling that will see the name of Orla Brady take centre rank on Ireland's bodybuilding stage for some time to come.