It was a gold-medal performance for Jakarta-based single mom and first-time competitor, personal trainer Dina Ida Rosdiana, at the NPC Singapore Showdown bodybuilding championships in the Lion City on Feb 24.
Dina further underlined her promise for the future by narrowly missing out on another gold in the Bikini Open Class A, placing second after making a last-minute decision to enter the category, which is usually associated with more experienced competitors.
“It was incredibly nerve-wracking being up on stage for the first time to compete against so many amazing women who travelled from around the region to take part,” said Dina.
Of her last-minute decision to enter the Open competition, Dina said: “My coach dared me to enter the Bikini Open, which was never part of the plan, and so I dared myself too! Winning second place against many more experienced contestants was beyond my wildest dreams.”
“I don’t think people recognise just how tough it is to take part in bikini bodybuilding competitions, especially when you have a family to think about, and you are working full time, we train like athletes,” said Dina, who admitted that despite the physical demands of preparation, the most challenging part was probably “not cheating on my meal plan.”
She celebrated her victory, she says, by breaking her fast with friends over a meal of chili crab at Singapore’s famed Clarke Quay.
“I hope my example will inspire other Indonesian women to similar successes and believe they can improve themselves through exercise, not just physically but mentally. And that my daughter will learn the lesson that when you put your full focus on your goals, no matter what the obstacles, you can achieve anything!”
As for the future, Dina said: “My ultimate goal is to win a Pro Card and compete at Olympia, the most prestigious bodybuilding event.
- “Meanwhile, I’ll enjoy some downtime before preparing after Ramadan for the NPC Showdown in Jakarta in July and international events in Vietnam and the Philippines in October. I’m looking forward to having a full four months of preparation this time around – and to enjoy some home support!”
