Up to a few years ago, Rachel Bezzina, now a third-year University student, was fighting the biggest battle of her life against cancer, which she managed to win successfully. Last weekend, she competed in a body building competition and managed to place 2nd amongst 6 finalists.
What do you do in your everyday life?
I am currently a third-year University student reading for a Bachelor Degree in Psychology whilst studying Behaviour Therapy. The rest of my time involves keeping myself fit along with maintaining a clean food diet as well as enjoying quality time with my friends and family.
For how long have you been training body building?
Fitness has always been a huge part of my life. I used to participate in athletic events, held by the MAAA, however, I started to develop an increasing interest in weight training as years went by and have now been training body building for around a year and a half.
Up to a few years ago you managed to win the battle against cancer and last weekend, you placed second in a body building contest, do you consider yourself a warrior?
I have considered myself a warrior since the first day I started battling cancer.
Fighting cancer has definitely been my toughest journey. It was all about having courage and determination all the time as it was more of a psychological battle rather than a physical one.
Yes, I do consider myself a warrior, as getting back into shape and achieving physical goals, that I have never reached before, after such an intensive treatment was truly challenging.
How important is this achievement for you?
It’s obviously important as it has been something which I have been working for really hard. I have put alot of my energy and time into it, having to sacrifice a lot of life’s pleasures to reach my goals. However, ultimately, it is something which I grew to be fond of and am passionate about. This achievement will always remind me that I was a strong woman who has fought her way towards her goal and will always stay persistent and determined towards my new ones.
What’s your reply to those who tell you that body building is a masculine sports?
Unfortunately, the perception that muscularity is not feminine is very common in Malta, which might be due to the lack of knowledge on the diversity of Sports. I believe that a muscular body is a symbol of dedication, willpower, and strength and that is the beauty of it. However, in the long-run, everyone has different opinions and they must be respected.
Who is the biggest inspiration in your life and why?
A number of athletes from diverse areas of sports inspire me and keep me focused on my target goals.
