Tamara to flaunt on world stage

GEELONG fitness model Tamara Smith is headed to America to compete in the “Victoria’s Secret” of body building competitions.

The 27-year-old former Matthew Flinders student recently took out a national competition — and obtained her “pro status” — to gain a place at the event at Las Vegas’ Bellagio Hotel.

Smith said the World Beauty Fitness and Fashion competition is “not your ordinary body building”.

“It’s not all orange tan, muscle poses, it’s more modelling … you get scored on hair, make-up, theme wear, stage presence.”

The discipline required, is similar. “I dieted for 40 weeks before the most recent show. But it’s not just chicken and broccoli, I eat rice, meat, protein, fruit, nuts, sweet potato.

“Then I do a lot of cardio and six days in gym for an hour-and-ahalf.”

Smith said she’s had to be “selfish” and excuse herself from social events to ensure she’s not tempted to stray from her goal.

Her fiance and coach, Anytime Fitness Geelong manager Jake Baldacchino, helps keep her focused.

“We met when I was working in Westfield and joined there. We became friends and trained together and he inspired me to get into (competing) … he proposed after one of my shows about six months ago,” she said.

Smith will take the stage alongside about 40 women at the world championship next month.

“A place in the top 10 is outstanding … I am just looking forward to getting feedback on how I can improve,” Smith said.