Elite Physique

Q: I currently live in Ontario and am a member of the OPA and as you know as a judge, we have quite a few shows thanks to Ron Hache. But I've always wanted to compete in the US and try my luck with the NPC. I realize that it will not advance my standing in the OPA but I just want to get more stage time and compete more often to gain exposure. What is the CBBF’s stance on cross-border competing? Can I compete in the US?

A: For our readers, the Ontario Physique Association (OPA) is the Provincial affiliate of the CBBF. This is the only stream in Canada that is sanctioned by the IFBB. If you compete in other federations, this will never qualify you to compete in the IFBB. I spoke directly with the CBBF President Mark Smishek and he informed me that the only shows the CBBF permits their athletes to compete in are the North American Championships and the Arnold Amateurs. Both of these shows require that an athlete qualify before being allowed to attend and the athlete must also be a current member in good standing under the CBBF. For example, if you place top 5 at the Canadian Nationals you may apply to compete at the North Americans. Of course there are always “exceptions to the rule” and this year provisions had to be made. Because the CBBF Nationals were scheduled after the North American Championships a decision was put forth to permit qualified Provincial athletes to compete at the North Americans. Essentially, there are 2 shows south of the border in which you are allowed to compete. 

Can Canadians Compete In The NPC Shows?

Mark also mentioned that if you desired to compete in an NPC show you would have to seek permission from NPC President Jim Manion. I would think an athlete’s entitlement would be judged on an individual basis. For example, if there are no wheelchair events in Canada then I would assume that you would be granted permission to compete in the NPC wheelchair division. Exceptions can be made but they are judged on a case by case basis. As you previously correctly stated, competing in the US as a Canadian athlete will have no bearing on your standings in your Province or in Canada.

If You Place Top 5 Do You Have to Move Up?

Don’t forget that if you place top 5 in a Provincial qualifier in Ontario you don’t have to advance to the next level. You can stay at the entry level shows until you feel comfortable and experienced enough to compete at the Provincials. Just because you are qualified to compete at a higher level doesn’t mean that you should. Let face facts…if you are at your best and only place 5th should you advance on? I really don’t think you should.

I thought I would explore your question a bit further so I also asked Mark if the CBBF was considering allowing competitors to cross Provincial borders to compete. With the exception of Northern Ontario athletes competing in Manitoba he was very firm when he indicated that the CBBF would not be sanctioning this option.

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PHOTO CREDIT: STONE PHOTOGRAPHY