FORMER bodybuilding champion Alex Mangwiro is set to ignite the local bodybuilding scene with the inaugural Ultimate Bodybuilding Showdown, scheduled to take place this
weekend.
The competition comes with lucrative rewards with US$5 000 awaiting the winner on the December 7 event at the Harare International School auditorium.
“As a former bodybuilder, I know the pain and dedication required to compete. That's why we're offering a US$5 000 prize to the main winner. I sought out sponsors to support our event and motivate athletes. We're excited to have Mohamed Mussa, Betterbrands, Profitness, and others on board,” Mangwiro said.
“The response from athletes has been overwhelmingly positive. We have participants registered from South Africa, Zambia, Tanzania and locally. We're expecting a top-notch competition with many local athletes choosing to participate in our event instead of travelling to South Africa. We are grateful to our sponsors for their support in making this event a success.”
The Ultimate Bodybuilding Showdown becomes the highest paying bodybuilding event on the local scene. In its inception, it has since toppled Harare Classic (US$2 500) and the Zim Nationals (US$3 500).
Man of the moment Gideon Teguru is expected to feature in this event. Teguru is the reigning Mr Zimbabwe and Harare Classic champion.
“The Ultimate Bodybuilding Showdown is set to attract top talent from across the region, with bodybuilders from South Africa, Zambia and Tanzania confirmed to participate,” Mangwiro said.
"The preparations are in place for a successful event, with several top athletes already confirming their participation."
The competition will feature five categories namely Senior Men's Bodybuilding (Open), Junior Bodybuilding (16-23 years), Men's Fitness, Women's Wellness and Women's Bikini Fitness.