SMBBFA President Shamire Connor to represent St. Maarten at International Bodybuilding Championships

GREAT BAY-- President of the Sint Maarten Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (SMBBFA), Shamire R. Connor, has decided to put himself to the test by returning to the competitive stage and representing Sint Maarten at two major international bodybuilding and fitness championships.

Connor is scheduled to participate in:

• The 53rd Central American & Caribbean Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships will take place in Guatemala from August 27–31, 2026.
• Mr. Universo Colombia, taking place in Colombia from October 10–11, 2026.

 Since assuming the presidency of the SMBBFA, Connor has dedicated himself to supporting athletes, developing bodybuilding and fitness on Sint Maarten, and creating opportunities for individuals who want to transform their lives through the sport.  

In recent years, however, the association has experienced a decline in participation. Connor believes this is partly due to the stigma and negative experiences associated with the organization’s past. These challenges have created hesitation among potential members and athletes, but they have never stopped the current leadership from continuing to move the association in a positive and professional direction.

Connor has therefore decided to lead by example.

“I have spent a great deal of time encouraging athletes, helping them prepare, and asking them to believe in themselves,” Connor stated. “I decided that it was time for me to challenge myself as well. I believe I have developed a strong physique, so I want to experience what it truly takes to prepare for and compete at this level.”

Although Connor competed before assuming the presidency, this championship represents a new and meaningful challenge. This time, he will step onto the stage not only as an athlete but also as the president of the association he will proudly represent.

“This journey is bigger than me,” Connor added. “I want to show our athletes and the people of Sint Maarten that leadership is also about taking risks, accepting challenges, and being willing to do what you encourage others to do. I hope this inspires more people to become involved in bodybuilding and fitness and to see the positive direction in which our association is moving.”

To maintain transparency and ensure that Connor can participate solely in the capacity of an athlete, Acting Vice President Martin Wilson will assume the responsibilities of Acting President from the time Connor departs for Guatemala until his official return to his presidential duties.

Also traveling with Connor will be SMBBFA Coach Leon Bussue, who will provide coaching and support throughout the competition. Bussue will also undertake the challenge of advancing his professional development by completing the required course to pursue qualification as an international bodybuilding and fitness judge.

His participation in the international judging course represents another important step in strengthening the technical knowledge and professional capacity of the Sint Maarten Bodybuilding and Fitness Association.

Connor and the SMBBFA sincerely thank the individuals, businesses, and organizations that have already contributed to and supported this international journey:

• Jeannise Royer — Mother
• Sabine Connor — Sister
• Brian Videblock
• Franklin Matthew
• Abu Ghazi Signature
• Chinese Mark
• SMSF Federation

“Your generosity, encouragement, and belief in this journey are sincerely appreciated. Your support is helping to make it possible for Sint Maarten to be represented on the international bodybuilding stage.”

Additional support is still welcomed from individuals and businesses that would like to contribute toward Connor’s participation in the championships in Guatemala and Colombia. Contributions will assist with travel, accommodation, registration, preparation, coaching, and other competition-related expenses.

The SMBBFA believes that participating in these international championships will provide valuable experience, exposure, and knowledge that can be brought back to Sint Maarten to benefit current and future athletes.

The association calls upon the people and business community of Sint Maarten to support Shamire R. Connor, Coach Leon Bussue, and the SMBBFA as they proudly carry the Sint Maarten flag on the international stage.