A triumphant return.

Samoa Observer reports that The Mr. Samoa Bodybuilding competition is back and scheduled to make its long awaited return on Saturday 25 November at 7pm at the Tanoa Tusitala Hotel.

President of Samoa Bodybuilding Association, Ben Tamanikayaroi says the competition will kick off with their weigh-in this Friday, and proceed through the weekend. As usual, most of the competitors will be local bodybuilders, but this year a team from American Samoa will also be joining the fray.

This year, the male competition will be divided into two categories. They have added the men’s physique category, which will take place along with the traditional men’s bodybuilding category competition.

“Roughly there will be seven competitors from American Samoa comprising two female competitors and five male competitors. Samoa team will also consist of two female competitors and few boys competing for the men’s physique and bodybuilding.”

Mr. Tamaikayaroi also made it clear that the competition is part of an effort increase the sport’s popularity and currency in the community.

“We are starting from the grassroots level. The main thing is to enjoy the sport, health and fitness, as well as enjoying what you do. We also hope that these athletes will be consistent for next year because we will be having more competitions for overseas line up.”

Leaupepe Esera Poliko, who is a retired Samoan bodybuilder and will be participating as a judge for Men’s bodybuilding, expressed his excitement at being part of the event.

“It’s been a long time since the last competition here in Samoa, but it’s a sport suited well for Samoan men,” he said. I am here to offer my knowledge of the sport to these young talents here in Samoa so that the sport may grow within the country.”

The competition will also feature something of a special appearance, as World’s Men Bodybuilding Championships No. 5, Johnny Afoa, will be a guest celebrity. He is the son of Samoan who resides in Australia, and will be heartily welcomed at the Mr Samoa competition.

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