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Allen Khumalo, Sports Reporter
THE National Federation of Zimbabwe Bodybuilding and Fitness (NFZBBF) have released their 2017 calendar of events, with the first competition scheduled for March 25.

NFZBBF spokesperson Quiet Shangai said they are expecting improvements in local and international competitions, as they have lined up competitions aimed at developing the sport in the country.

“This year we expect to bring some medals and top three finishers in international competitions because we now know what is expected at these levels. The association has lined up more competitive events, so this year should be very exciting,” said Shangai.

“Right now two athletes have dropped out of the Arnold Classic competition to be held in South Africa, but we are expecting to send 30, which is an increase from last year’s 28. We hope the number will not decrease as some will have challenges with the budget because we need a substantial amount of money for the tournament,” he said.

Mr and Ms Novice will kick start the body-building calendar on March 25 at a venue yet to be announced.

Muchineripi Katena (37) from Gweru’s Berbaton Gym and Selina Manuel (17) from Bulawayo’s Body Works Gym are expected to defend their titles in this year’s competition.

Mr and Ms Schools, Tertiary and Universities will be held on April 1 at a venue also to be announced in due course.

The International Federation of Body-Building and Fitness (IFBB) 2017 Arnold Classic will be held from May 5-7 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.

In 2016, Helen Costa and Champion Chienderamwano led a cast of 28 athletes to the competition. Lovemore Munyamana was the only bodybuilder from Bulawayo that was invited to take part in the inaugural African Arnold Classic.

Bulawayo will for the first time stage the Mr and Ms Iron Man on June 3 with Body Works Gym as official competition hosts. It will be followed by the Marume Classics on August 5. The 2017 calendar will wrap up with the Mr and Ms Zimbabwe pageant on October 28 in Harare.

@khumzallen