Andrew
Sports Reporters
THE Covid-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc on Zimbabwe bodybuilding, with the 2020 edition of the Zimbabwe National Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships becoming the latest casualty.
In a statement released by the National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness, the association has decided to cancel the annual competition, citing the continued closure of gyms as the chief reason behind the decision.
“The National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness Executive held a virtual meeting on Monday and resolved to cancel the national championships,” read the statement released by the NFZBFF secretary-general Quiet Shangai.
“It is technically impossible for athletes to bring a stage-worthy physique on or before December 31 because gyms have been closed.
“It’s not easy to create an environment of muscle growth and conditioning that is competent enough to step on stage between now and year-end,” reads art of the statement.
“The board has also noted that most potential sponsors may not be able to support the nationals, because of the economic environment caused by Covid-19 pandemic.
“Thirdly, the board looked at the safety of the fans, who are owners of the sport, and the unlikely possibility of being able to avail the right facility to enable safety in the auditorium in the event that Covid-19 will still be around.
“Having said that, the board decided to officially cancel the 2020 edition . . .”
Local infections continue to rise and this has prompted Government to take preventative measures.
A night curfew from 6pm to 6am, with the exception of essential services, has since been imposed.
Business operating hours are now restricted from 8am to 3pm to curb the spread of the disease.
Non-working people have been ordered to stay at home, except for essential movement to buy food, find water or for medical reasons.
Masks have to be worn in public spaces, while screening is done when entering public places and buildings.
Online Reporter