Musclemen ready to flex for title

Bodybuilders from Brunei, Miri and Limbang are set to flex their muscles on September 9 at Dewan Seri Kenangan Complex in Tutong in their bid to win the Brunei Open Classic 2006.
Organised by SWB Hardcore Gym & Fitness for the second time, the event will comprise six categories: body fitness, novice, under 65 kg, under 70 kg, over 75 kg and bench press.

The competition, which commences at 7 pm on Saturday, will feature a famous bodybuilder from Indonesia, Komang Arnawa, who won numerous bodybuilding contests including 2005 PNBA Natural Olympia and 2004 World Championships.

Komang will make a guest appearance by showcasing his ripped physique to the audience.

Local enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to attend a talk by Komang, where he will share a few bodybuilding tips, on September 10 from 10 am until noon at Dewan Seri Kenangan Complex.

Tickets for the Brunei Open Classic 2006 are priced at $15 and $10, while for Komang's talk, at $5 per person.

The tickets for both events can be purchased from Haji Shahrol at 871 8052, Joy at 222 1476, Ishak at 873 9711 and Oni at 426 0642.

Side activities during the competition include aerobic exercise performances, a health exhibition and sales of bodybuilding supplements by registered establishments in the country.

SWB Hardcore Gym & Fitness first organised a bodybuilding contest in 2004, which attracted the participation of 21 musclemen from Brunei, Limbang, Miri and Labuan.

The upcoming tournament will cater to the growing number of bodybuilding enthusiasts amid the current health frenzy, which is also the main driving force behind the growth of the fitness industry.

The organiser also hopes to encourage athletes to take up bodybuilding so they could represent Brunei in regional and international events.