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Takudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter

ALL is set for this year’s edition of the Manicaland Classic body-building contest to be staged at Golden Peacock, in Mutare, on Saturday. 

The contest is expected to attract most of the top athletes, in the country, who will battle it out, in several categories. 

The categories include the Senior Men Body-building Open, Men’s Physique Open, Junior Men body-building up to 23 years, Men’s Fitness Open and Women Bikini Fitness Open. 

The contest, which returned in 2019 when it was held in Rusape, was not held last year, because of the Covid-19 lockdown. 

Simbarashe Dube, one of the organisers, said they were ready to host one of the province’s biggest tournaments, after a long time.

“This will be the third edition of the contest and we are expecting Nunurai Masosonere to defend his title, which he won back in 2019,’’ said Dube. 

“The battle for the crown is also expected to be graced by legendary Manicaland hulk, Brighton Mazikana, who will represent the city against greats like Vincent “Vince Carter” Kandiero, who may pull a surprise, as they seem to have been preparing quietly. 

“Being the first show, after the lockdown, we expect athletes to be highly competitive as they had missed the stage, for a long time.’’ 

The Manicaland Classic organisers also called on support from the corporate sector.

A number of individuals have come together, in their personal capacities, to form a team, which is organising the Manicaland Classic. 

“We appeal for last-minute sponsors, and the government, to look at the challenges we face, and support us. 

“Body-builders haven’t had a show in a while, due to the Covid-19 lockdown, but it looks like they are now ready to get back on stage. 

“We are expecting athletes from across Zimbabwe because it’s an open event and many athletes are already on diet, in preparation, for the Harare Classic,” said Dube.