She took out first place in the figure category at the WWF (World Fitness Federation) World Championships on the Gold Coast.

The win, earlier this month, capped off an unbelievable debut season for the diminutive champion.

Annika says her first foray into the world of posing, spray tans and the stage was “crazy” but fun.

“It has been a whirlwind,” she says.

“It started with my three wins at the WFF/NABBA (National Amateur Body Builders Association New South Wales) titles in Sydney on September 14.

“From there I qualified for the Australian Titles on October 12 in Hobart.”

Much to her surprise, Annika came away with another victory and a chance to earn her pro-card.

Her recent triumph on the world stage means she now has her pro-card and will head overseas after the off-season to either France or South America.

In the meantime, she’ll continue with a lighter training program of about one-and-a-half hours a day which Annika squeezes in between work in the morning and picking up her daughter from school in the afternoon.

She is also looking forward to not having to weigh her food and stick to the strict diet her food coach sets out for her in the lead up to a competition.

The 33-year-old single mum, who is toned to perfection, says she has been training for six years and has been contemplating competing “for a while now”.

“I have always wanted to compete but some obstacles have stood in my way,” she says.

“I really wanted to do this to be a good role model for my daughter, Ella - to show her that if you stick with something and work hard, you will get results.

“So to have done so well is amazing; it blew me away.  

“I still don’t believe it – I am in shock.”

Just physically getting to the Worlds at the Gold Coast was an achievement as it is an expensive sport, she says.

“My good friend Karlie Sills helps me out with my tan and make-up but there are so many other costs like accommodation, travel and food.”

Annika explains even the bikinis she is required to compete in costs a small fortune.

“A brand new one is usually around $500 each.

“And even with a sponsor, my supplement store, I still struggle to cover all expenses.”

However, it did not prevent her from impressing the international judges and beating some of the sports more-seasoned and financial competitors.

Annika attributes her success to genetics and determination and says her short-term goal is to “to stay on top”.

And if past performance is anything to go by, this determined and genetically-blessed athlete will.