Jaco Jonker Wins Men's Physique Overall at Shaye Best Classic 2026

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Jaco Jonker Wins Men's Physique Overall at Shaye Best Classic 2026




Stellenbosch bodybuilder Jaco Jonker has finally claimed the Men's Physique Overall title at the 2026 Shaye Best Classic, ending a two-year run of runner-up finishes behind his longtime rival Chris Strachan.



That moment holding up that cheque meant more than just the money or the trophy. It represented years of work, sacrifice, setbacks, lessons and refusing to stop chasing the vision.




For four consecutive years, Jonker has competed at the Shaye Best Classic, one of Cape Town's premier bodybuilding events. In the two previous editions, he finished second to Chris Strachan, who dominated the Men's Physique division with what judges described as an impeccable conditioning and commanding stage presence.

The rivalry between the two athletes became a defining storyline in Cape Town's Men's Physique scene. Strachan won back-to-back overall titles at the Shaye Best Classic before earning his IFBB Pro card at the NPC African Pro Qualifier in 2025.




The victory marks a significant breakthrough for the 31-year-old, who has been steadily building his competitive resume.

Jonker's international credentials are already impressive. In November 2025, he competed at the UWSFF World Championship in Pattaya, Thailand, winning the Overalls Line-Up in the Men's Physique category and earning his UWSFF Pro Card.



Building a Legacy Through FitNation Academy

Beyond his own competitive career, Jonker runs FitNation Academy, a fitness and lifestyle coaching brand based in Stellenbosch. At the world championship, he coached four athletes who all placed in their respective categories, with ages ranging from 19 to 33.




For Jonker, the Shaye Best Classic has been more than just a competition stage. He credits the event with providing sponsorship opportunities and serving as a qualifying platform for international competitions.


Four years of stepping onto the Shaye Best Classic stage and this year, everything came together. I brought the package I wanted, stood my ground in a competitive lineup, and walked away as the Men’s Physique Over 175 Champion and ultimately the Overall Men’s Physique Champion.  
The trophy is special, but what means even more is knowing what went into earning it.







With the 2026 title secured, Jonker has finally claimed the Cape Town crown that eluded him for two years, cementing his status as one of the region's top Men's Physique competitors.