Two North West University (NWU) bodybuilders are on the verge of creating a significant milestone for the institution's bodybuilding programme after qualifying to represent South Africa at the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness World Men’s and Women’s Championships and World Congress in Santa Susanna, Spain, from 29 October to 2 November 2026.

The duo, Bokang Matsetela from the Mahikeng Campus and Letlhogonolo Baloyi from the Vanderbijlpark Campus, secured national team selection following stellar performances on the domestic stage. 

Matsetela secured first position in the junior ladies' bikini category before claiming another victory in the senior ladies' bikini under-172 cm division.

“Winning first place in both categories was more than just a personal triumph. It was a validation of discipline, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of excellence,” said Matsetela.

Looking ahead to the international showcase, Matsetela noted that her sights are set firmly on peak performance. 

“My expectation is to bring my absolute best package to the stage, aiming not only for placement, but for personal growth, international recognition, and the pride of representing my country and university,” she said.

Coach Tshepo Jack Baloyi explained that the university programme aims to produce athletes capable of competing against international standards rather than merely dominating locally.

“Because now, if you check with bodybuilding, we do it 24 hours. We cannot say we are not in the gym or eat whatever we want. She has been on a strict diet since January this year, and that dedication is what convinced me as a coach,” he said.

Meanwhile, Vaal Campus-based athlete Letlhogonolo Baloyi is eager to test his capabilities on the global stage.

“I am looking forward to testing myself against athletes from around the world and giving everything I have to represent my country and university with pride,” he said.

Baloyi’s journey to Spain began at the University Sports South Africa Bodybuilding Championships, where he claimed first place in the men's physique over 178 cm category before capturing the Overall Men’s Physique Title.

“These results mean a great deal to me because they represent months of discipline, training, nutrition, and preparation,” said Baloyi.

Coach Mabasa noted that Baloyi’s training has focused heavily on refining essential competitive attributes.

“Our main focus areas have been conditioning, symmetry, and stage presentation. At the international level, the standard is extremely high, so we have worked on bringing him in leaner and harder while maintaining his muscle mass,” said Mabasa.

Mabasa expressed confidence that the experience gained in Spain will leave a lasting legacy back home, helping to elevate training standards and inspire future generations of university athletes.