The Tribune

By BRENT STUBBS

Senior Sports Reporter

bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the fact that many local gyms were closed at various intervals, preventing many of the athletes from training, Bahamas Bodybuilding, Wellness and Fitness president Joel Stubbs said he was still pleased with the performances from the bodybuilders in 2021.

He publicly thanked the general public and all of their sponsors, especially the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, for their unselfish support and contributions to the sport, particularly during the onset of the pandemic to the present.

“The journey, the expectations, and the progress for many of our athletes has been overwhelming at times, however, because of their commitment, discipline, and dedication to the sport some continue to persevere and push through the challenges,” Stubbs said.

“The federation remains committed in its quest to deliver a suitable platform for our athletes to showcase their talent and represent this great country. 2021 was no exception to that rule.”

Stubbs, a professional bodybuilder and a career pilot with Bahamasair, said the highlight of the year was at the Central American and Caribbean Games where the Bahamas was represented by an eight-member team that returned home from San Salvador, El Salvador, with eight medals.

The team, managed by Nardo Dean, captured two gold, three silver and three bronze medals with Wellington Wallace leading the way with his pair of gold in the men’s physique and the men’s masters physique.

The silver medals came from Jason Johnson in the men’s physique, Jaye Darling Jr in the men’s muscular physique and Terrion Kemp in the men’s junior physique.

Winning the bronze medals were Gemo Smith in the men’s muscular physique, Kaif Young in the men’s tall class and Fania Joseph in the women’s bikini. Ashley Sturrup, the other member of the team, was sixth in the women’s bikini class. “We are hopeful and confident that we will duplicate these efforts, with another stellar performance, once the opportunities and support are given,” Stubbs said.

“We are a small country with many talented athletes who can measure up to international standards anywhere and at any time.”

As the federation turns its attention to 2022, Stubbs revealed their tentative schedule with four events of note that they will be concentrating on. They are as follows:

• May 21 - Novice Championship – date and venue to be released at a later date.

• June 18 - Northern Bahamas Championship – date and venue in Grand Bahama to be released at a later date.

• July 16 - The Bahamas National Championship – date and venue to be released at a later date.

• July 28 - CAC Championship in Bridgetown, Barbados – date yet to be announced. “Upon completion of our nationals, a national team will be selected immediately to represent the country,” Stubbs said.

“It should be noted that since the start of the pandemic we have observed a slight decline in athletes’ participation.

“We are evaluating the situation and are hoping to have a solution before the first show of the season.”

Despite the challenges they continue to face, Stubbs said they remain optimistic that they will enjoy another great year.

“Overall, despite the challenges and hurdles of 2021, we are welcoming 2022 with a renewed sense of commitment and dedication in growing the sport of bodybuilding,” Stubbs said.