CANADIAN PHYSIQUE ALLIANCE JAN/FEB 2020 ISSUE | Page 32

WHAT IS TRUE NOVICE?
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In 2018 we introduced two new divisions – True Novice and Novice.

Why did we introduce True Novice and Novice?  
Many first-time competitors were already very anxious and nervous when competing.  They were
also concerned with the fact that they were up against veteran competitors trying to qualify for a
Pro Qualifier.  The CPA wanted to provide an opportunity for these rookie competitors to place in
the top three and receive an award that could possibly give them the incentive and confidence to
compete again. Both True Novice and Novice are non-qualifying divisions.  
These divisions were added as an introduction for new competitors looking to participate in the
CPA. Adding True Novice and Novice to our program was a complete success that attracted
many first-time competitors from across Canada.  
Here’s the definition of a True Novice:  Someone who has never stepped on the competition
stage anywhere in the world related to our sport--they are truly a True Novice.  Once they enter
a competition, they lose their status as a True Novice.  We also included a Novice division for
competitors that never placed in the top 3 in any class at any competition.  In other words, if you
never placed top 3 in any class, novice or open, you can compete as a novice, however once you
place in the top 3 in any class you now lose your Novice status.
Surprisingly from attending many of these regional events I have been quite amazed at the
confidence many True Novice and Novice competitors have by competing in multiple
divisions.  Some have not only placed in the True Novice division but have done very well in the
Novice and open qualifying classes.  Many first-time competitors are excited to compete for
bragging rights, but many also try to qualify at the same time to the Pro Qualifiers held across
the country. Since this has been such a success, NEW TO THIS YEAR, we have added the Novice
division to the Pro Qualifiers being held across Canada. This will be open to Novice competitors
only who have NOT placed in the top three in a regional event.  They will get to experience
competing in a Pro Qualifier rubbing shoulders with the Pros and the soon to be IFBB
Pros.  Although it’s only for bragging rights it should be a very exciting experience that will not
soon be forgotten.
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Ron
President
Canadian Physique Alliance