CULTURAL barriers and the stigma of women in bikinis could be the contributing factor for women not registering for the iCompete Natural (ICN) muscle and model Fiji Championships, says ICN Fiji representative Patricia Mallam.
“There has been some interest from women, however, no women have registered. This may be attributed to the cultural barriers and stigma around women in bikinis,” she said.
“There is the stigma around viewing women in bikinis on stage as a form of entertainment and not a sport, which is rather sad because women put in the long hours and hard work, just as male competitors do when preparing for body-building shows.”
Mallam, who joined the sport in 2017 had competed in the Suva Classics and competed in her first international competition in April this year.
“A few men at the gym have also commented on my physique saying I don’t look as appealing any more because I have a more muscular physique and have lost a lot of body fat,” she said.
She is encouraging the people to come and enjoy the event.
“Preparations are going well, with posing workshops and information sessions being held earlier this week,” she said.
“We had more than 30 athletes express their interest but only 12 have confirmed their participation by registering. This is the first, but definitely not the last natural body-building show that ICN Fiji will have.
“We encourage supporters and potential athletes to come along and enjoy a morning of good fun and entertainment.”
The event will be held at the ICT Centre in University of the South Pacific Laucala Bay Campus tomorrow.
