Competing for NZFBB & NABBA

[Andrew]

Ok whats everybody’s opinion on competing for NZFBB & NABBA at the same time? Is this allowed under the rules & regulations of each association? Is it frowned upon? I’ve seen a few competitors do it and wondered if its cosha ?

[MasterTel]

Excellent question, Andrew!

I competed in 5 NABBA shows this year after previously competing exclusively in NZFBB events since 2001. I am also on the NZFBB Executive, but decided to try the Masters Athletic class this year as it suited my physique better than the regular Masters classes.

There has been a perception that competing for both organisations is frowned upon. The reality, IMO, is that this is not the case. I'm fairly sure NABBA have no restrictions at all, nor do they mind if competitors compete for NZFBB, INBA or any other organisation. The NZFBB has a rule where once a member competes for another organisation, their membership (i.e. annual subscription) ceases, and they have to rejoin the NZFBB to compete for them again.

I've heard some people say "oh, I won't compete for the NZFBB as I have done NABBA shows and the judges will penalise me for that". This, like a number of ill-informed comments about judges is quite untrue.

IMO, bodybuilding in NZ is not big enough for organisations to force competitors to stick to one organisation - we want more competitors at every event, so hopefully the growing bunch of competitors who already compete for more than once organisation will continue to grow!