Bodybuilding contest to be included at Sportex event

This year's event, set to take place in December, will see increased competition, as the Emirates Bodybuilding Federation (EBBF) adds a third category to the fitness contest, encouraging athletes to enter for the 80kg, 80-90kg and 90+kg categories.

The 2008 edition of the Sportex Middle East exhibition, held in early November at Dubai World Trade Centre, was the most successful event in the event's six-year history. More than 3,250 trade visitors attended the event, which was endorsed by Dubai Sports Council and presented by Dubai Sports City.

Some 79 companies exhibited at Sportex 2008 showcasing the very latest in sports, fitness, health, outdoor and stadium equipment.

Sportex is supported by the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry (WFSGI), a world authoritative body for the sports industry and officially recognized by the IOC.

Timed to coincide with National Day celebrations across the UAE, December 6th will see athletes from across the GCC and beyond weighing in in readiness for a tough show of strength. December 7th will see muscles flexed as competitors go head to head to win cash prizes, medals and the coveted Sportex cup.

"The Sportex Bodybuilding Competition has fast become one of the prize events in the Middle East's annual sporting calendar, attracting athletes from across the region keen to show off their physical prowess,"

said Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, President of IEC.

"With the new 90+kg category we expect to see an even higher level of entries and look forward to an impressive show of strength," he added.

Would-be competitors need to contact the EBBF to enter the competition.

Last year's contest saw strong participation, with athletes from the UAE, Egypt, Iran, Bahrain, Syria, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia.

Sportex 2009 will run from December 6 to 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.