Mr Novice falls into place

Sunday Mail Reporter

MR NOVICE, the country’s premier amateur bodybuilding and fitness competition, is on an upward trajectory, as the number of participants continue to grow.

At least 50 competitors, most of whom are coming from the country’s top gyms and provinces, have registered for this year’s edition, which is slated for March 28 at the Zimbabwe College of Music in Harare.

They will slug it out in six categories, which include senior men’s bodybuilding open, men’s physique open, junior men’s bodybuilding open (Under-21), women’s body fitness development, wheelchair men’s bodybuilding, and men’s fitness.

“The response has been overwhelming, as we continue to grow in numbers,” said National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness secretary-general Quiet Shangai.

“This is our premier amateur tournament, with the sole purpose being that to attract as many bodybuilders as possible.

“The competition started back in 1980 but it is only since 2017 that we have started seeing a steady increase in numbers, with the contest attracting 40-plus competitors.

“If we can manage to retain 60 percent of these competitors and at least 100 percent from the national events, then that should leave us in good stead,” he said.

Shangai said as entries are from areas such as Bulawayo (5), Chitungwiza (5) and the Zimbabwe Republic of Police gym (6).

More participants are also expected to come from Mbare, Mabvuku and Tafara.

There has also been an increase in sponsorship.

“Yes, preparations are already at an advanced stage, with the response from both the sponsors and competitors quite overwhelming,” said Shangai.

“This year’s competition promises to be quite the spectacle, with a lot more than just the competition on offer.

“For one, it will be very interactive, with the judges openly talking to some of the competitors in a bid to help them with tips and advice on what they look for and how they can improve.

“You have to understand that this is an amateur tournament and most of these bodybuilders lack the experience, and we may need to help with certain aspects of the competition.

“We have also put out an open invite to those that may want to become judges, as there will be a training seminar on the sidelines of the competition,” he said.