James Shinners Passes Away at Age 57
The legendary Irish bodybuilder who won Mr. Ireland a total of nine times was found dead in Limerick, Ireland Wednesday and his death was very sudden.
Shinners lived in Ardnacrusha and opened his own gym in his 20’s before he became a successful bodybuilding competitor, personal trainer, bodybuilding judge, and boxing coach for the Irish Athletic Boxing Association. He also placed top 6 at the Mr. Universe competition twice and had a successful run in his home country of Ireland.
He won a lifetime achievement award from NABBA and was well known for his involvement with the sport of boxing alongside his passion of bodybuilding.
Si Sweeney, who is a NABBA member had this to say on Facebook in honor of the Irish legend…
“I’m terribly sad and shocked to hear of the passing yesterday of Irish Bodybuilding Legend Blue James Shinners .. Champion Bodybuilder, Coach , Judge , gentleman.. an inspiration to so many, will be sadly missed by all .. heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.. Rest In Peace my friend”.
His good friend Rich Hawk also paid his respects…
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“Very sad news…I knew Blue as we grew up around the corner from each other. I met him most days in the gym and the last time we spoke was yesterday. We talked about old times, the sport as it is now and training and life in general. One of the last things he said in that conversation was to a young Bodybuilder who came into the changing rooms giving him some good advice as always.”
We’d like to send our most sincere condolences to the family and friends of James “Blue” Shinners. He was a phenomenal champion and will be missed dearly by the bodybuilding community.