Sport
2 November, 2026
Two titles for Chong at professional debut
MAREEBA bodybuilder Carol Chong has picked up two championship titles in her debut as a recognised professional athlete.
Chong took out the Figure Masters and Figure Classic titles at the Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA) Championship in Brisbane recently.
She first achieved professional status in April of this year when she won the Figure Masters title while competing under the International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA), which earned her a Pro Card and allowed her to compete under the PNBA.
“It was an incredibly emotional and unforgettable experience. Standing on that stage as a professional athlete for the very first time and winning both the Figure Masters and Figure Classic divisions was a dream come true,” Chong said.
“To stand alongside other professional athletes and achieve these victories was something truly special. I felt an enormous sense of pride, not only for myself but also as a First Nations woman representing my culture and my community.
“Having my partner, family and friends there supporting me made the occasion even more meaningful. It was a moment I will treasure for the rest of my life.”
Her latest achievement opens up avenues for her to compete at renowned international bodybuilding events, such as the Natural Olympia.
“These victories are particularly significant because they demonstrate that I can successfully compete at the professional level,” Chong said.
“My professional status also provides opportunities to compete at major international PNBA events, including the prestigious Natural Olympia, where some of the world’s best natural bodybuilding athletes compete.”
Following all of her hard work recently, Chong said she was now going dial it back a bit but her long-term goal for the future was to represent Australia on the PNBA Natural Olympia stage.
“After an incredibly rewarding competition season, I have decided to take a well-deserved break from competitive bodybuilding,” she said.
“I have spent years working towards achieving professional status, and now that I have accomplished that goal and won two professional titles I want to allow my body time to recover while continuing to maintain my health and fitness.
“I will continue strength training and Pilates but at a more balanced pace, while also focusing on other commitments.
“Natural Olympia is certainly an ambition of mine and these victories have given me greater confidence in what I can achieve in the future.”
Chong thanked her coaches for their guidance and expertise, and her partner and family for supporting her along the way.
“I also hope my journey encourages women of all backgrounds to understand that strength, confidence, and personal achievement do not have an age limit.”
