After conquering the pageantry world, former Miss Namibia Cassia Sharpley left tongues wagging during an impressive performance at the bodybuilding competition, Iron House Classics. 

The recent bodybuilding competition took place at the Wanderers Sports Field, where the former beauty queen secured the titles in the Bikini category as well as the overall Women’s Championship. 

Sharpley who was Miss Namibia 2022, remarked that this accomplishment is the culmination of months of rigorous training, strict adherence to her diet, and disciplined daily routines. Her commitment to her fitness objectives is particularly noteworthy given her diverse responsibilities as the owner of the Honeycomb Haven Foundation, a part-time influencer, and a university student.

The Iron House Classics honours the dedication and effort of bodybuilders, both male and female, who pursue physical excellence. It serves as a platform for athletes to display the fruits of their year-long dedication to fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being.

“Many people are shocked by how I went from pageantry to bodybuilding. I am shocked myself; I have always been an athlete, artist, and bookworm. However, I like to challenge myself in everything I do just to see what I am capable of, that is why I compete. I see bodybuilding as the pageant of the fitness industry. It’s a platform where athletes can showcase their hard work and progress. As human beings we were not made to have the physique of bodybuilders, we sculpt our bodies to look like it has been engineered and we enjoy seeing the progress and motivating those around us to embrace health and fitness,” she said. 

She mentioned that she has been training alongside her brother  Joshua since 2014; however, she participated in her first competition in November 2021, followed by her second competition in April 2022, just a few months prior to entering Miss Namibia. In those competitions, she achieved second and third place, respectively. 

Although several competitions occurred afterward, her focus was not on competing; rather, she trained primarily to maintain her health and keep her body active. 

“The victory holds significant meaning for me, as I view health and fitness as a vital means to escape from reality and enter a space where one feels empowered. It is gratifying to recognise that I have complete control over my progress each day and am working towards a long, healthy, and fulfilling life,” she expressed. 

She added, “It is a fulfilling and liberating experience to know that I could take the stage and simply enjoy myself. Winning the title was an added reward for the hard work and commitment I have put in.”

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na