By Neto Baptiste
Former national bodybuilder and head coach of the Antigua and Barbuda team Ollyn Martin believes that, although the sport is growing in popularity, the intense rivalry between competitors that once brought it notoriety has significantly subsided.
“What I’ll say has changed in bodybuilding in Antigua is the rivalry. That has changed because, remember, before, nobody turned pro, so it was about bragging rights, dogfights and being the man—that kind of stuff. Now, knowledge has increased and, between myself and other coaches, you find that when the younger generation comes along, we know what to give them right away for them to be successful. So, you will find that Tiffany, Che’-Vaughn or other persons turn pro in a short time,” he said.
Martin’s assessment follows the country’s participation in the Central American and Caribbean Fitness and Bodybuilding Championships, held in Guatemala one week ago.
The former national bodybuilding champion also credits the Antigua and Barbuda Amateur Bodybuilding and Weightlifting Federation (ABABWF) for its continued support of athletes pursuing professional status.
“In the past, there were times when nobody went away, and I think now a team has gone away every year. It was a bit challenging this year because Guatemala is not a cheap destination. I think it may average about eight or nine thousand dollars per person to get to Guatemala, and you can see the federation sent five athletes and two or three officials. So they are making the effort; they are trying,” he said.
Athletes Tiffany Gordon and Che’-Vaughn Ferris both earned IFBB Elite Pro Cards during the recent CAC championships. Gordon dominated the bikini fitness segment, while Ferris earned his pro card in the men’s physique category.
