Casey Kuehl

ESCANABA — A local bodybuilder was the overall winner of a recent statewide bodybuilding competition. Escanaba resident Casey Kuehl received the title of “Mr. Michigan” in the National Physique Committee (NPC) Michigan State Championships, which were held in Ypsilanti, Mich. earlier this month.

Kuehl said he is not new to the NPC Michigan State Championships.

“I’ve done this show four years in a row,” he said. In the three years leading up to his win, Kuehl had placed sixth place, third place, and third place in open bodybuilding in the heavyweight class at the show.

According to Kuehl, he has been interested in bodybuilding for the past 20 years. He started pursuing this interest at Escanaba gym Great Lakes Fitness, where he still works out today.

“It’s … just something I like to do,” he said, describing bodybuilding as a “hobby” and a stress reliever.

He also noted that his involvement with Great Lakes Fitness has helped him achieve his goals.

“Everybody’s very helpful there … it’s a big gym family,” Kuehl said.

Kuehl said he is looking to move on to the NPC’s next level of competition later in 2018.

“I plan on doing the nationals down in … Miami, Fla. Nov. 16th and 17th,” he said.

As taking part in this event will be expensive, Kuehl said he is currently seeking financial support.

“We are looking for sponsors,” he said. Those interested in sponsoring Kuehl are encouraged to call Great Lakes Fitness at (906) 786-4344.

Before he heads to Miami, Kuehl plans to take part in another NPC event — “NPC Brew City,” which will be held in Milwaukee on June 23. He will be participating in this event along with his workout partner and fiancee, Kayela Asplund.

“She’ll be competing for her first time, so I thought I would do one with her,” he said.