New category for Barbosa Classic

MBABANE – The highly-anticipated seventh edition of the Barbosa Classic is fast approaching.

It is set to take place on March 30, this year. With just four to five weeks remaining for participants to prepare, the event has introduced a new powerlifting category, aiming to draw a greater number of athletes to the competition. Arnaldo Barbosa, a prominent bodybuilder in Eswatini, who is the organiser, has assured this year’s edition will be massive, as there will be an increased number of participants from both within and outside the country’s borders.

Notably, the eagerly-awaited event will welcome team Gogogweni from Fairview in Manzini, who have confirmed their participation in the upcoming competition.

The Destination, an exquisite venue, has been selected as the perfect location for the event. Noteworthy is that athletes from Mozambique, South Africa, Zambia and other nations are set to participate, promising a truly diverse and competitive showcase of talent. Barbosa has assured that this edition will be the most impressive one yet, offering a substantial E10 000 cash prize and other rewards.

Meanwhile, the seventh edition of the Barbosa Classics has garnered sponsorships from Eightbet (8bet), a leading betting company from Spain, as well as Car Land and Star Paint. Individuals interested in participating in this event can contact the organisers on 7955 4534, 7860 8684 or 7954 8942. Registration for the competition is currently open, with a fee of E400 per athlete.

Categories

The event encompasses various categories such as Bodybuilder (BB) up to 70kg, BB up to 75kg, BB up to 80kg, Wellness, Men’s Physique, Classic Physique, Bikini, Powerlifting and Men’s Novice.

Moreover, the event will feature a South African-based bodybuilder, Mabatata Alexandre, as the guest poser, while Lelo Mkholo will serve as the Programme Director along with Eswatini’s renowned Hip Hop artist, KrTC. Spectators are also invited to attend and cheer on their favourite athletes on stage, with tickets price set at E200.

(PICS: MENGAMELI MABUZA)

(Pic: Ashmond Nzima) Mbabane Swallows forward Ayanda Gadlela, who fired a hat-trick in the 4-0 thrashing of Madlenya at Mkhuzweni Technical Centre on Saturday, was the first recipient of the E1 000 Man of the Match prize following a partnership with Upper Interiors. Four prizes will be given out each month. Giving out the prize is Upper Interiors’ Lwazi Malaza.

Manzini Wanderers’ versatile player Mlamuli ‘Mlaba’ Nkambule (R) attempts to defend against Royal Leopard midfielder Sifiso ‘Ayoba’ Matse during Saturday’s MTN Premier League match at Mavuso Sports Centre, which ended in a 4-2 win in favour of the police side.

(Courtesy pic)