‘Trang Back’ gets redemption third place for Jamaica

Relatively new to the professional bodybuilding stage, Deidre 'Trang Back' Lewis is already showing her strength by claiming third place in Bikini Fitness at the Mr Universe last weekend.

Lewis said she is basking in national pride after the event.

"(I am) extremely elated, especially since I participated in the South American Championship in Peru one week before but missed the mark where conditioning and muscle definition were concerned. I placed outside the top five then, so this third-place finish in Bikini Fitness at the Mr Universe Colombia event was like a redemption medal," she said.

The 2019 Jamaican Bodybuilder of the Year said the task was not easy.

"It was difficult trying to get the body into shape to the standard of a professional level where you're displaying a good balance of muscle tone and definition required for my category (Bikini Fitness). You're slightly bigger than when you were an amateur, so everything gets slightly harder," she said.

"Otherwise, there was the constant struggle of hitting the mandatory poses to show all that you've been working so hard for in the gym. How you present yourself on stage can determine your final placement, so your bikini, makeup, skin tone and walk are a few things that play a role in that."

The struggle will get tougher as Lewis says she will push her limits to achieve the most in the sport.

"I want to represent Jamaica at the highest level in my sport, including winning key events such as the World Championship, and foster and maintain mutually beneficial partnerships with major corporate brands that align with health and fitness lifestyle.

"This would help to alleviate the financial strain with each of my preparations to compete. I want to inspire as many people along the way to start or continue their fitness journey," she said.

According to Lewis, the goals of professional bodybuilders are hard to accomplish with proper funding.

"The biggest challenge for me is securing stable funding to represent Jamaica. Bodybuilding isn't the most popular sport here, so whenever you approach a potential sponsor, it's difficult to get help. So far, I've only received one-off contributions from past events.

"I struggle with constantly trying to pin down a top sponsor to collaborate with - something I'm in dire need of. The sport is relatively expensive - travelling costs, stage attire, food/nutrition, etc.

"It is difficult to gather any assistance from friends and well-wishers. I was invited to the prestigious Arnold Classic Europe in October, but due to financial constraints, I didn't get to make the trip to represent my beloved country," she said.

"At the moment, Fit Farm Fitness Club is my only sponsor. I intend to collaborate with corporate brands in Jamaica as a brand ambassador. I may be contacted via email at lewisdeidre22@yahoo.com if anyone/brand wishes to do so for the upcoming 2024 competition season," she added.

However, Lewis, despite the struggles, is not prepared to give up on her goals and will be on to the next.

"I will constantly put myself out there and continue to do well despite being posed with these challenges," she affirmed.

"The calendar for next year hasn't been updated as yet, but I do have my eyes set on the Bikini Fitness World Championships event that will be held in Barbados in May. I am also interested in a few staple shows that may be held in Colombia, Chile, Argentina and Norway among others. I only need funding, and I'm ready to go! I'll rest until 2024 comes," she concluded.