More pledges for Mangochi contest

The Mangochi bodybuilding tournament scheduled for June 30, continues to attract sponsors, the latest being Mangochi-based businessperson Prince Fachi who has contributed K50 0 (about $200)00 towards the competition.

Fachi’s contribution comes in the wake of sponsorship from Lab Suppliers and Lab Enterprise amounting to K300 000 (about $1 200).

Weightlifting Association of Malawi (WAM) president Richard Kuwali described the gesture from Fachi as a ‘blessing’ to the sport.

“This is an Olympic sport which has been sidelined for a long time. We appreciate that now we are getting recognition. We are asking more companies and individuals to come in and help,” said Kuwali.

He said they plan to work towards meeting Olympic standards so that they take part in the next Olympic Games and, also, the Commonwealth Games.

“We need to hold frequent tournaments so as to shape up our athletes for international competitions. With the help we are receiving, we are optimistic about identifying quality bodybuilders,” said Kuwali.

He said outstanding bodybuilders stand a chance of wining modelling contracts for major international cloth liners, if they get exposed on the international stage.

In an interview, reigning Mr. Malawi Henry Master said he will participate in the Mangochi contest just to encourage and motivate up-and-coming youngsters.

“I just want to show them how it is done and the benefit of bodybuilding not only as a sport but also in relationship to body fitness,” said Master who has dominated bodybuilding contest in the country for the last three years.

After Mangochi Open, WAM will also hold other contests in Lilongwe and Blantyre.