Guyana secures historic professional bodybuilding competition for 2027

Guyana is set to host its first-ever professional bodybuilding competition in 2027, after Guyana Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GBBFF) President Roger Callender successfully secured the event during a meeting with International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) President Dr Rafael Santonja.
The achievement was confirmed during Callender’s participation in the Pan American Congress in Mexico, where discussions with the IFBB leadership resulted in Guyana being awarded the right to stage the prestigious competition.
The event is expected to have a significant impact beyond the sport itself. Organisers anticipate that the competition will boost tourism, strengthen the hospitality industry and create opportunities for local businesses that will provide services for the international event.
The competition is also expected to attract athletes, officials and supporters from around the world, including neighbouring Caribbean and South American countries, providing additional exposure for Guyana on the international sporting stage.
According to the GBBFF, Dr Santonja has pledged his full support for the initiative and will work closely with Callender and the local federation to ensure the successful staging of the competition.
The hosting rights represent a major milestone for bodybuilding in Guyana, which has continued to make strides in regional and international competition over the years. The event will provide local athletes with the opportunity to compete at the professional level in front of a home audience for the first time.
The development also strengthens Guyana’s relationship with the international bodybuilding community and reflects the growing recognition of the country’s ability to host major sporting events.
With preparations expected to begin well in advance of 2027, the competition is being viewed as a landmark achievement for both the GBBFF and Guyana’s sporting sector as a whole.