Bodybuilding Committee doing good job, says IFBB chief

MUSCAT, August 21

Fitness and bodybuilding world chief Rafael Santonja has affirmed that Oman Bodybuilding Committee (OBC) is moving forward in excellent manner. The president of the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) said that the Sultanate of Oman delivered an outstanding edition of West Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship which concluded recently in Muscat.

IFBB is the world governing body for Fitness and Bodybuilding featuring 204 countries including from Asia. “West Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championship in Muscat city featured great numbers of professional athletes representing different countries around the world. I find this event at highest international standards while the venue was very nice and the stage set at professional level. I want to congratulate Oman Body bodybuilding Committee (OBC) which is moving forward in excellent manner,” he said.

The IFBB chief said the sport of bodybuilding is witnessing remarkable development across Asia particularly in West Asia. “Oman is rich in young and talented athletes in bodybuilding who are expected to have a promising future. Athletes and OBC need to work hard to achieve the best global results” he added.

“There are expected programmes in the near future as umpiring workshops and activities for coaches in Oman. There are many qualified referees and trainers here in Oman. We support organising more programmes in the near future to increase the number of competent coaches and umpires. We look forward to a successful partnership with the OBC in the near future to organise these workshops and programmes."

IBBF chief

World Championship

Regarding to the forthcoming edition of the World Championship which is scheduled to be held in Iran, Santonja said: "We expect a large number of participants and representation from different countries worldwide in this major global event. The International Congress members agreed to hold this championship in Iran and we are looking forward to a large and successful event with the desired outcomes."

Santonja stressed the importance of separating politics from sports emphasising that sports unite people from various cultures and religions providing an opportunity for athletes to meet and compete fairly.

Santonja also highlighted the significant role of women in bodybuilding. “The number of athletes in bodybuilding is equal between both genders. We highly respect and appreciate the customs and traditions in Arab countries regarding women's participation in bodybuilding competitions. We have good plans to develop the sport for women in a way that aligns with the privacy and cultural considerations of Arab and Muslim women. The key is to respect and acknowledge all beliefs and cultures and then to explore the available avenues to organise competitions within the boundaries that align with these considerations."

Rafael Santonja concluded by lavishly praising the country after his visit to Oman during the championship."I have visited Oman several times but this visit was different as I attended the championship and followed by some tours to Oman's tourist attractions including a visit to the National Museum which I consider the best museum I have visited worldwide. The museum offers unique historical and cultural insights about the country. I would like to thank all my colleagues and friends in Oman for their warm hospitality and gracious reception."