The Legion Sports Fest, a renowned international bodybuilding tournament, took center stage in Reno, Nevada, on October 8. This event, the third largest of its kind globally, witnessed the impressive participation of four winners from the NPC Worldwide Pro Qualifier tournament, a joint venture held by Invictus and Center Podium on December 3 in Astana last year.
Kazakh athletes, who secured their spots at the Legion Sports Fest thanks to the organizers' full support, showcased their exceptional talent on the international stage. Daryn Shirbayev, a Kazakh bodybuilder, achieved a remarkable third place in the Classic Physique Pro category. This category is highly competitive, with up to 50 participants in the last Mr. Olympia competition.
Daryn faced tough competition, including two-time Arnold Classic champion Terrence Ruffin (1st place) and crowd favorite Logan Franklin (2nd place). The tournament's top positions were claimed by renowned athletes and repeat winners of the prestigious Mr. Olympia from the International Bodybuilding Federation.
Other Kazakh athletes who excelled at the Legion Sports Fest included Aisha Kaipova, who secured a well-deserved 3rd place in the Bikini category, and Elena Sandaevskaya, who clinched 5th place in the Wellness category. Additionally, Tatiana Altergot, an absolute winner of the NPC Pro Qualifier, showcased her prowess and skills in the Figure category.
The success of our athletes at the NPC Worldwide Pro Qualifier tournament, where they earned their pro cards last year in Astana, demonstrates their ability to compete at the highest level on the American stage.
The progress of the NPC Pro Qualifier has been nothing short of remarkable, with the first world tournament held just last year and incredible results emerging in just 10 months.
The second NPC Pro Qualifier and IFBB Pro Tournament is slated for November 25th in Astana, and we are excited to see our athletes continue to make waves in the bodybuilding world.