Bodybuilders face funding hurdle ahead of World Championships in Spain

Five Ugandan bodybuilders are undergoing intense training as they prepare for the World Bodybuilding Championships in Spain from June 13-15.

The determined team consists of Safaru Tamale (Duplex Fitness Gym), Dan Mwesigwa (STS Gym, Kisenyi), Simon Mbaziira (Cash Gym, Muyenga), Godfrey Lubega (Nice Gym, Busega), and Isaac Hiire (ISK Gym, Nateete).

Despite their rigorous preparation, the athletes face a major challenge: insufficient funding. Safaru Tamale, who trains with a physical disability, is concentrating on upper body development.

"I'm working hard to improve my nutrition, endurance, and upper body muscle mass as I look forward to representing Uganda internationally," Tamale said. He appealed to sports authorities and private sponsors for support: "We need help with flight tickets and accommodation in Spain to properly represent our country."

The team requires approximately 70 million shillings to cover training supplements, airfare, accommodation, and local transportation in Spain. Denis Kisaakye, their coach at Suplex Fitness Gym, believes in their potential to raise Uganda's profile in international bodybuilding.

"With proper preparation, these athletes can improve on their recent achievements from the UAE competitions. But they need financial support to maintain focus and perform at their best," Kisaakye stated.

Notably, Godfrey Lubega (middleweight) and Safaru Tamale (physically disabled category) previously won gold medals at the IFBB Wawan Classic Dubai Beach Championships.

Upon arrival in Spain, the team will receive technical guidance from Germany-based Ivan Byekwaso, who played a key role in securing their world championship qualification.