THE RISE of Rosalind Vanterpool and Lyndon Belgrave is proof that home-grown athletes can make an impact in professional sport.
That’s the view of president of the Barbados Amateur Bodybuilding &?Fitness Federation (BABFF), Dr Andrew Forde.
Forde told MIDWEEKSPORT that Barbadians should be proud of both Vanterpool, who created history in Toronto over the weekend when she became the first Barbadian to win a pro figure contest, and Belgrave, who placed fifth in the 212-and-Under bodybuilding competition.
“Both have not only done well on the stage but have given back to the federation and also to amateur athletes that need their assistance,” he said.
“They are very hard-working and dedicated. They are proof you can perform at a high level in the pro ranks and still be home-based.
“Many people feel you have to emigrate to the United States, England and Canada to succeed. Rosalind and Lyndon have shown that we have what it takes here to excel.”
Both Belgrave and Vanterpool train at the Strike Force Gym, a home-based gym, near the National Stadium.
“They train without the fancy equipment and have made it. They have always been ones to assess themselves and work on their weaknesses,” Forde said.
“I am really pleased with what they have done.”
The president was of the view that there will be an increase in the numbers of Barbadians who will head to the Olympia this year with Vanterpool and Belgrave in the lineup.
Vanterpool, 47, a former St Leonard’s Secondary schoolgirl, will showcase tone, shape and symmetry in the Fitness Olympia while Belgrave, 42, a product of Grantley Adams Memorial, will flex muscle in the newly created 212 pound-and-Under Class.
Belgrave, the winner of Mr Barbados in 2001, 2002 and 2003, thinks the 212-and-Under Class is tailor-made for him.
“I?am happier in this class. The playing field is level here, with all of the guys equal in terms of weight.
“If I can add some mass to my arms and shoulders, I will be up there,” he said.
Vanterpool, Belgrave, along with coach Carl Moore and manager Matthew Pilgrim returned home from Toronto on Monday afternoon.
