2008 INTERNATIONAL TOURNAMENT "AMBER PRIX"
Klaipėda, Lithuania, 2008
In 2008, alongside the international “Amber Prix” tournament held in Klaipėda, the organizers of the global WFF–WBBF federation were actively working on staging the traditional “Universe” competition in Vilnius, as well as the WBBF World Professional Championship. At the same time, the WFF World Professional Championship, featuring substantial prize money, was again organized in Prague at the Žofín Palace by Czech businessman Martin Kuta.
Following a meeting between the leaders of the WFF-WBBF Federation and the Minister of Sport of the Republic of Poland, Zbigniew Pacelt, Bydgoszcz businessman Jerzy Gotowski took the initiative to organize the WFF-WBBF World Amateur Championship in his city.
This important decision became a significant step in strengthening the Federation’s international recognition and promoting the development of bodybuilding and fitness sports throughout Europe. The organization of the event brought together the efforts of the city authorities, the business community, and sports organizations, while the championship itself became one of the most important WFF-WBBF sporting events of the year.
The World Amateur Championship held in Bydgoszcz gathered athletes from numerous countries and further reinforced the Federation’s position in the international sports arena.
“Amber Prix”
The 2008 "Amber Prix" competition took place in the sports hall of LCC International University.
On the occasion of the event, former President of the Austrian Parliament Professor Alfred Gerstl presented the people of Klaipeda with a unique collection of original photographs of his protégé, then Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger, as well as a documentary film depicting Schwarzenegger’s life journey and athletic career.
The photographs were displayed in an exhibition held on the premises of LCC International University, while the documentary film was screened for the large audience gathered to watch the competition.
The official opening ceremony was attended by members of the Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania, representatives of national and municipal institutions, and other distinguished guests. The event was filmed by a production crew from the Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), which had arrived from Vilnius.
During the 2008 “Amber Prix” tournament, both living and deceased veterans were honored. After the competition, heads of foreign delegations visited the Parliament of the Republic of Lithuania and the Ministry of Sport of the Republic of Lithuania, and also attended a press conference held at the ELTA news agency.
On the occasion of the event, a historical trilingual magazine (10,000 copies) and 3,000 copies of the competition DVD were published. These materials were distributed free of charge at various international events around the world.
A total of 293 athletes from 21 countries participated in the event: Argentina, Austria, Belarus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Latvia, Lithuania, Mexico, Montenegro, Poland, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, and Ukraine.
Results
(only first three places)
FIT-KIDS DIVISION
Girls up to 8 years
1. Marcelina Porożyńska (Poland)
2. Maja Dembowska (Poland)
3. Karolina Młot (Poland)
Girls up to 10 years
1. Nikola Szydłowska (Poland)
2. Natalia Janta (Poland)
3. Ugnė Klumbyte (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
Girls up to 12 years
1. Klaudia Korpan (Poland)
2. Paulina Rocławska (Poland)
3. Aleksandra Dudáková (Slovakia)
Girls up to 14 years
1. Miriama Zigálová (Slovakia)
2. Stanislava Dolinská (Slovakia)
3. Kateryna Bezrodna (Ukraine)
Girls up to 16 years
1. Joanna Kwiatkowska (Poland)
2. Oksana Didukh (Ukraine)
3. Sylwia Kaczmarek (Poland)
Boys up to 10 years
1. Anton Florija (Vilnius, Lithuania)
Boys up to 14 years
1. Dmytro Girya (Ukraine)
AEROBIC FITNESS
Up to 18 years
1. Anita Bekus (Poland)
2. Radvile Jokubauskyte (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
3. Marta Noska (Poland)
Up to 21 years
1. Alina Olefirenko (Ukraine)
2. Agata Czerkawska (Poland)
3. Daria Shumarova (Ukraine)
Women – Category I
1. Natalia Bocian (Poland)
2. Ivana Sokolova (Slovakia)
3. Elena Tarasova (Russian Federation)
Women – Category II
1. Marija Deksne (Latvia)
2. Irina Nikitina (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
3. Vilma Asijaviciene (Marijampole, Lithuania)
Men
1. Andrius Smaguris (Vilnius, Lithuania)
2. Mikhail Glazunov (Russian Federation)
3. Piotr Grinevich (Belarus)
Women's Masters
1. Erzsébet Herczog (Hungary)
2. Elena Odentsova (Ukraine)
3. Svetlana Galkina (Russian Federation)
ATHLETES WITH DISABILITIES DIVISION
Wheelchair Category
1. Petar Milenković (Serbia)
2. Arturas Krutulis (Marijampole, Lithuania)
3. Genadij Zametaskin (Kaunas, Lithuania)
General Disability Category
1. Nikolaj Mironov (Vilnius, Lithuania)
FITNESS MODEL
Category I
1. Lenka Maková (Slovakia)
2. Aušra Tasiukeviciute (Kaunas, Lithuania)
3. Weronika Krajewska (Poland)
Category II
1. Roberta Burokaite (Kaunas, Lithuania)
2. Ksenija Dunderski (Serbia)
3. Juste Matulyte (Kaunas, Lithuania)
Category III
1. Eva Martinková (Slovakia)
2. Jadwiga Krizanovska (Latvia)
3. Sylwia Kaczmarek (Poland)
Category IV
1. Rita Elksniņa (Latvia)
2. Aleksandra Sizonova (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
3. Veronika Juhaseva (Slovakia)
WOMEN'S SPORT FITNESS
Juniors up to 16 years
1. Brigita Vecerskaite (Palanga, Lithuania)
2. Vaida Grebliauskaite (Kaunas, Lithuania)
3. Aleksandra Ivanova (Bulgaria)
Juniors up to 18 years
1. Radvile Jokubauskyte (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
2. Juste Matulyte (Kaunas, Lithuania)
3. Anita Bekus (Poland)
Youth up to 21 years
1. Zita Satkauskaite (Telsiai, Lithuania)
2. Alina Olefirenko (Ukraine)
3. Lenka Maková (Slovakia)
Women – Category I
1. Oksana Rumyantseva (Russian Federation)
2. Nataša Maksimović (Serbia)
3. Nora Loranen (Finland)
Women – Category II
1. Oksana Usachova (Russian Federation)
2. Kristina Serksnaite (Kaunas, Lithuania)
3. Tatiana Dudneva (Russian Federation)
Women – Category III
1. Jamila Vanessa Toledo (Argentina)
2. Irina Pateshkina (Russian Federation)
3. Kirsi Marika Tuominen (Finland)
Women – Category IV
1. Monika De Jesus Bolaños (Mexico)
2. Odeta Vaisnoriene (Vilnius, Lithuania)
3. Natalia Lysenko (Ukraine)
Women – Category V
1. Ilona Kokos (Vilnius, Lithuania)
2. Irina Fedoruk (Belarus)
3. Andrea Koflach (Austria)
MEN'S SPORT FITNESS
Juniors up to 16 years
1. Rokas Kasperavicius (Kaunas, Lithuania)
2. Deividas Savickas (Vilnius, Lithuania)
3. Valdas Miseikis (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
Juniors up to 18 years
1. Edgaras Linortas (Kaunas, Lithuania)
2. Tadas Tumbortas (Kaunas, Lithuania)
3. Lukás Palaga (Slovakia)
Youth up to 21 years
1. Erik Tóth (Slovakia)
2. Deividas Ignatavicius (Vilnius, Lithuania)
3. Mantas Stankevicius (Kaunas, Lithuania)
Men – Category I
1. Anton Yezhov (Russian Federation)
2. Alexey Chigarov (Russian Federation)
3. Artur Sinickij (Vilnius, Lithuania)
Men – Category II
1. Vadim Gushchin (Russian Federation)
2. Jukka-Pekka Nousiainen (Finland)
3. Deniss Gladkijs (Latvia)
Men – Category III
1. Leonid Filatov (Russian Federation)
2. Roman Polsin (Estonia)
3. Dmytro Strelnikov (Ukraine)
Men – Category IV
1. Darius Buksnaitis (Sakiai, Lithuania)
2. Davyd Tukhtayev (Russian Federation)
3. Nikolaos Giannakis (Greece)
Men – Category V
1. Arvydas Miseikis (Klaipeda, Lithuania)
2. Sergej Kiriuchin (Vilnius, Lithuania)
3. Predrag Milosević (Serbia)
Men – Category VI
1. Vladimir Polyakov (Russian Federation)
2. Normunds Jurans (Latvia)
3. Eduard Larin (Russian Federation)
Men – Category VII
1. Vitalijus Kuzmycius (Vilnius, Lithuania)
2. Aleksandr Shevtsov (Estonia)
3. Alexey Tarasov (Russian Federation)
OVERALL CHAMPIONS
Women's Overall Champion: Jamila Vanessa Toledo (Argentina)
Men's Overall Champion: Darius Buksnaitis (Lithuania)
International Activities of the WFF-WBBF Federation in the Context of Europe's Geopolitical Developments
The year 2018 was a period in which international cooperation acquired particular importance throughout Europe. Following the events in Ukraine in 2014 and the beginning of Russia's military aggression against the country, many international public, academic, and sports organizations sought to preserve and strengthen their cooperation with Ukraine. Such relations were regarded not only as a form of professional collaboration but also as an expression of moral support for the country's society, cultural institutions, and academic community.
Within this context, the visits of Dr. Edmundas Daubaras, President of the World WFF-WBBF Federation, to Ukraine assumed a broader significance. They extended well beyond cooperation in the field of sport. Meetings with university leaders, representatives of public organizations, historical orders, and Cossack associations demonstrated a commitment to maintaining international dialogue, expanding cultural cooperation, and strengthening civil society partnerships.
Lithuania and Ukraine share historical ties dating back to the period of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. Over the centuries these political, cultural, and social connections have evolved into a modern partnership based on mutual support for democracy, statehood, and European integration. In this respect, the activities of Lithuanian public organizations in Ukraine represented a natural continuation of longstanding bilateral cooperation.
Relations with Poland were equally significant. Lithuania and Poland are linked by a common historical heritage originating from the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Following the restoration of Lithuanian independence, both countries became strategic partners within the European Union and NATO. Consequently, cooperation between Lithuanian and Polish public organizations acquired importance not only in the fields of culture and sport but also as a contribution to broader regional cooperation and European integration.
Dr. Edmundas Daubaras' visit to Poland in 2018 represented a continuation of this longstanding partnership. His participation in international events and the presentation of the historic Order of Saint Stanislaus symbolized recognition of many years of dedicated work in promoting cooperation among public organizations throughout Europe.
It is important to emphasize that the World WFF-WBBF Federation based its international activities on the principles of what is commonly referred to as public diplomacy or people-to-people diplomacy. Such initiatives complement official interstate relations by creating opportunities for cooperation among universities, sports organizations, cultural institutions, historians, and non-governmental organizations. International sporting events thereby become not only venues for athletic competition but also platforms for cultural dialogue, professional networking, and the strengthening of mutual understanding among nations.
It is therefore significant that the international distinctions conferred upon Dr. Edmundas Daubaras in 2018 recognized not athletic achievements but his contribution to international public activities. This demonstrates that the work of the World WFF-WBBF Federation was appreciated by its international partners in a much broader sense—as a long-term contribution to international cooperation, academic exchange, preservation of historical heritage, and the promotion of dialogue among the peoples of Europe.
Viewed from a historical perspective, the events of 2018 constituted an important stage in the international development of the World WFF-WBBF Federation. Over several decades, the Federation evolved from an international bodybuilding organization into a broad platform for international public cooperation. Its activities expanded beyond the promotion of bodybuilding and fitness to include partnerships with universities, academic institutions, public organizations, and organizations dedicated to preserving Europe's historical and cultural heritage. This development was the result of consistent long-term efforts that significantly strengthened the Federation's international prestige and recognition across numerous European countries.
Special Focus on the International Activities of the WFF–WBBF Federation in 2018
Expansion of International Activities in Europe
The year 2018 marked an important stage in the international development of the World WFF–WBBF Federation. Throughout the year, the organization actively expanded its international relations in Europe while strengthening cooperation with academic institutions, public organizations, and cultural partners. Representing the Federation at numerous international events, its President, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras, participated not only in sports-related activities but also in academic, public, and historical initiatives.
Official visits to Ukraine and Poland became significant milestones in the Federation's international activities during 2018. During these visits, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras received several prestigious international public and historical distinctions in recognition of his long-standing contribution to international cooperation, the development of sport, and public service.
Visits to Ukraine
During 2018, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras visited Ukraine on several occasions. Meetings were held with university leaders, representatives of public organizations, officials of historical orders, and leaders of Ukrainian Cossack organizations. These meetings focused on strengthening international cooperation in the fields of culture, history, sport, and public activities.
Award at Lviv University
In January 2018, during an international scientific conference held in Lviv, Professor Yaroslav Kmit, Rector of the historic Ukrainian Stavropigion University, presented Dr. Edmundas Daubaras with the university's highest distinction—the Order of Merit.
The award was conferred in recognition of his active international public service, long-term cooperation, and significant contribution to the development of international relations among various public organizations. The prestige of this distinction is reflected by the fact that, during the same period, it was also awarded to Patriarch Filaret of Kyiv and All Ukraine, one of Ukraine's most prominent religious and public figures.
The Order of Hetman Ivan Sulima
In March 2018, during another visit to Ukraine, a ceremonial event was held at the Greek Catholic Church in Lviv, where the leadership of the Ukrainian Cossack League presented Dr. Edmundas Daubaras with the Order of Ukraine Hetman Ivan Sulima.
This historical distinction was awarded for his outstanding international public activities, contribution to strengthening cooperation among nations, and active participation in international projects. Hetman Ivan Sulima occupies an important place in Ukrainian history as a symbol of statehood, freedom, and national identity. Consequently, the order bearing his name is regarded as one of the country's most honorable historical public distinctions.
The Order of the Crown of Christ
In October 2018, during another visit to Lviv, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras received the Sovereign Knights Order of Christ the Saviour, commonly known as the Order of the Crown of Christ, during an international ceremony held in one of the city's historic churches.
The decoration was presented by the Grand Master of the international historical Order of the Brothers of Christ. It recognized Dr. Daubaras for his long-standing efforts in promoting international public cooperation, encouraging dialogue among nations, and preserving the historical traditions of Europe.
Visit to Poland
In March 2018, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras also visited Poland, where he participated in international public events and held meetings with representatives of various organizations.
During the visit, he was invested with the historic Order of Saint Stanislaw in recognition of his active international work and his contribution to the development of international cooperation.
The Order of Saint Stanislaw was established on May 7, 1765, by King Stanisław August Poniatowski, the last monarch of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth. Over more than two and a half centuries, the order has become one of Europe's best-known historical distinctions, symbolizing service to society, the state, and Christian values.
Dr. Edmundas Daubaras received the order in recognition of his long-standing efforts to strengthen international relations among public organizations, cultural and sports institutions, and to promote international dialogue.
The International Standing of the WFF–WBBF Federation
The international distinctions received in 2018 reflected not only the personal recognition of Dr. Edmundas Daubaras but also the growing international prestige of the World WFF–WBBF Federation.
By this time, the Federation's activities had expanded well beyond the traditional framework of bodybuilding and fitness. The organization actively participated in international cultural, historical, academic, and public projects while developing cooperation with universities, research institutions, historical organizations, and civic movements throughout Europe.
This broad range of activities strengthened the Federation's role as a platform for international cooperation and contributed significantly to its growing international reputation.
Conclusions
The year 2018 became one of the most significant milestones in the international history of the World WFF–WBBF Federation. Official visits to Ukraine and Poland strengthened the Federation's ties with academic institutions, historical organizations, and public movements.
The international distinctions awarded to Dr. Edmundas Daubaras constituted official recognition of his many years of dedicated work while also reflecting the Federation's contribution to the development of international cooperation. They demonstrated that the Federation's activities were appreciated not only within the sporting community but also among academic, cultural, and public institutions.
The events of 2018 once again confirmed that the World WFF–WBBF Federation based its mission on more than sporting achievements alone. It consistently promoted international cooperation, encouraged dialogue among nations, supported the preservation of historical heritage, and fostered public partnership. These principles became an important foundation for the Federation's growing international prestige and now form a significant chapter in its history.
NOTHING COMES FROM NOTHING
The Emergence of Bodybuilding as a Sport
When discussing the history of bodybuilding, much attention is often given to the first strongmen, Eugen Sandow, and the physical culture movement of the early twentieth century. However, during that period bodybuilding was not yet an independent sport. There was no international governing body, no unified rules, and no official championships. It remained an activity pursued by a relatively small circle of enthusiasts.
The true emergence of bodybuilding as a sport began only when institutions assumed responsibility for its organization and international administration. For this reason, the decisive turning point in bodybuilding history occurred not in Europe, but in the United States.
Before the establishment of a governmental system for sports administration, virtually all amateur sports in the United States were governed by the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU), founded in 1888. One of its member organizations was the USA Weightlifting Federation, which belonged to the Fédération Internationale Haltérophile (FIH), the International Weightlifting Federation. Since the FIH was recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), its decisions carried official international authority.
One of the most influential figures in American and world weightlifting during this period was Bob Hoffman (Robert Collins Hoffman, 1898–1985), widely known as the "Father of American Weightlifting." Hoffman was not only a sports administrator but also an exceptionally successful entrepreneur. He manufactured sports equipment and nutritional supplements, published magazines and books, sponsored athletes, and established an international network promoting strength sports. These activities enabled him to exercise considerable influence far beyond the United States.
It was through Hoffman's initiative that, in 1947, the Fédération Internationale Haltérophile officially expanded its jurisdiction to include bodybuilding. The organization consequently adopted the name Fédération Internationale Haltérophile et Culturiste (FIHC) — the International Weightlifting and Bodybuilding Federation.
The importance of this decision can hardly be overstated. For the first time in history, bodybuilding ceased to be merely an activity promoted by individual clubs or private organizers and became a discipline officially administered by an internationally recognized sports federation.
This development provided bodybuilding with an institutional foundation. It became possible to establish national federations, organize official international championships, standardize judging criteria, and pursue broader recognition within the international sports community.
At that time, the AAU–FIHC structure directed by Bob Hoffman represented the world's strongest bodybuilding organization. Organizations operating outside this system—including the International Federation of BodyBuilders (IFBB), founded by brothers Joe and Ben Weider—faced considerably greater difficulties in organizing international competitions and expanding worldwide. This demonstrates that during the late 1940s the FIHC, rather than the IFBB, was the principal international authority governing bodybuilding.
Bob Hoffman's primary objective was not commercial success but the official recognition of bodybuilding as a legitimate sport. He pursued this goal consistently by working within the established international sports structure.
1947 – The First Official Mr. Universe Contest
Even before bodybuilding received international recognition, the AAU had organized the annual Mr. America contest since 1939, making it the most prestigious amateur bodybuilding championship in the United States. Nevertheless, no official world bodybuilding championship yet existed.
In 1947, on Bob Hoffman's initiative, the first international Mr. Universe contest in bodybuilding history was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in conjunction with the World Weightlifting Championships under the patronage of the FIHC.
Immediately before the competition, the FIHC Congress adopted a historic resolution officially assigning the federation responsibility for governing international bodybuilding and organizing regular international bodybuilding championships. This moment may therefore be regarded as the official beginning of international competitive bodybuilding.
The first overall Mr. Universe title was won by the distinguished American weightlifter and bodybuilder Steve Stanko, one of Bob Hoffman's closest protégés. His victory represented far more than an individual sporting achievement—it symbolized the birth of a new internationally organized sport.
Conclusion
Histories of bodybuilding often emphasize its early physique stars, famous performers, or the later rise of the IFBB. Historical documentation, however, demonstrates that the institutionalization of bodybuilding began in 1947, when the Fédération Internationale Haltérophile officially incorporated bodybuilding into its jurisdiction and became the Fédération Internationale Haltérophile et Culturiste (FIHC).
For this reason, 1947 should be regarded as the birth year of international competitive bodybuilding as an officially governed sport. From that moment onward, bodybuilding possessed an internationally recognized governing body, official world championships, and the organizational framework necessary for development as an independent sport. Regardless of the emergence of later organizations and their subsequent rivalry, the future growth of bodybuilding rested upon the institutional foundation established through Bob Hoffman's initiative in 1947.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
HONORARY DOCTORATE – DOCTOR HONORIS CAUSA
The Highest International Recognition of a Lifetime of Achievement
In June 2013, Edmundas Daubaras, President of the World Fitness Federation (W.F.F.) and the World Body Building Federation (W.B.B.F.), paid an official visit to the city of Lviv, Ukraine.
Lviv, one of Eastern Europe's oldest cities, is renowned for its rich history, remarkable architectural heritage, and long-standing academic traditions. It was in this distinguished setting that an event of special significance took place—one recognizing Edmundas Daubaras' decades of international leadership and achievement.
Upon his arrival, the President of the W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. was officially welcomed by a delegation of the City of Lviv, which escorted him to the apartments of the prestigious Leopol Hotel.
The highlight of the visit was the solemn ceremony held at Lviv Stavropigion University, one of Ukraine's oldest institutions of higher education, whose origins date back to 1788. In recognition of more than three decades of outstanding international organizational, sporting, and public activity, the University's Academic Council conferred upon Edmundas Daubaras the honorary academic title of Doctor Honoris Causa (Doctor of Sciences, D.Sc.).
This distinction is among the highest academic honors awarded in recognition of exceptional contributions to society, international cooperation, science, sport, and culture.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished representatives of the academic community from Ukraine and neighboring countries. Among them were Professor Dr. Yaroslav Kmit (Ярослав Кміт), Rector of Lviv Stavropigion University and Vice President of the International UNESCO Programs Implementation Center, as well as Professor Viktor Idzio (Віктор Ідзьо), Rector of Moscow University, Academician of the International Eurasian Academy, and Academician of the Academy of Sciences of Higher Education of Ukraine, together with many other prominent scholars.
The honorary doctorate awarded to Edmundas Daubaras represented far more than personal recognition. It became an international acknowledgment of the global W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. movement, to whose development and worldwide expansion he devoted a substantial part of his life. Over the years, the organization united dozens of countries, organized numerous international championships, and established close cooperation with academic institutions, public organizations, and governmental bodies throughout the world.
Conclusion
The conferral of the honorary title Doctor Honoris Causa upon Edmundas Daubaras marked an important international recognition of his lifelong work and achievements. This distinguished academic honor confirmed that his decades of dedication to the global development of fitness and bodybuilding, the promotion of international cooperation, and the strengthening of international sports organizations had earned recognition not only within the sporting world but also from the academic community. It remains one of the most significant acknowledgments of Edmundas Daubaras' contribution to the history of international sport.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
Indian Athletes Have Developed a Strong Affection for the “Amber Prix” Tournament
Athletes from a number of Asian countries actively participate in the activities of the International WFF-WBBF Federation. Among the most prominent are India, Pakistan, and Turkey, while Egypt has also become increasingly active in recent years.
We first met Indian bodybuilders in 2008 at the WFF-WBBF “World Grand Prix” held in Greece. Closely following the activities of the international federation, Indian organizers staged the first WFF-WBBF India National Championship in 2010 and invited the federation’s leaders to attend. Since then, our cooperation has continued to grow, and we have participated in various events in India on as many as nineteen occasions.
Over the years, Indian athletes have become regular participants in the prestigious “Amber Prix” tournament held in Klaipeda, Lithuania. Many of them have won titles in their respective categories, while two Indian representatives, Dharminder Singh and Navtej Singh, achieved an exceptional distinction by becoming Overall Champions of the tournament.
The success of Indian athletes once again highlights the growing strength of bodybuilding in India and the close ties that have been established with the international WFF-WBBF community.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
2026 BODYBUILDING ANNIVERSARIES
61 YEAR OF LITHUANIAN BODYBUILDING
On May 17, 2025, the 60th anniversary of Lithuanian bodybuilding (1965–2025) was solemnly celebrated in Gargždai, on Lithuania's Baltic coast. It was the only official commemorative event in the Republic of Lithuania dedicated to this important milestone in the nation's sporting history.
The anniversary celebrations continue. In May 2027, Klaipėda will host another historic event—the 60th International "Amber Prix" Tournament, one of the world's oldest continuously organized international bodybuilding competitions.
However, 2026 is also a landmark year. It marks a series of important anniversaries of events that have shaped not only the history of Lithuanian bodybuilding but have also left a lasting impact on the international development of the sport.
Anniversary Milestones
1946 – 80 Years Ago
The IFBB commercial company was established in Canada, later after 1971 becoming one of the world's most influential bodybuilding organizations.
1966 – 60 Years Ago
Vilnius hosted the first international bodybuilding competition ever held in the socialist world. This historic event opened a new chapter in the development of bodybuilding throughout Eastern Europe.
1976 – 50 Years Ago
Despite the official prohibition of bodybuilding in socialist countries, Edmundas Daubaras organized a public bodybuilding competition in Telšiai. At that time, he was the only bodybuilding organizer in the Soviet Union to openly undertake such an initiative.
1986 – 40 Years Ago
On the initiative of Edmundas Daubaras, the process of establishing the official USSR Bodybuilding Federation was launched. A meeting held at his home brought together Vladimir Dubinin, Vladimir Shubov, and Arkadiy Kashansky, leading to the official founding of the Federation in Kubinka in 1987.
1996 – 30 Years Ago
Klaipėda hosted the first European Bodybuilding Championship in the history of Lithuanian sport. Organized by Edmundas Daubaras, the championship received official support from the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.
2006 – 20 Years Ago
Vilnius hosted the second World Professional Bodybuilding Championship in the history of Lithuanian sport, organized by Edmundas Daubaras. The championship received official support from the Government of the Republic of Lithuania.
2016 – 10 Years Ago
Leading the organizing committee Dr. Edmundas Daubaras organized the World Professional Bodybuilding Championship in Kaunas.
2026
The international WFF–WBBF events held in Klaipėda brought together 289 athletes from numerous countries, once again confirming Lithuania's position as an important center of international bodybuilding.
Lithuania's Contribution to World Bodybuilding
For more than six decades, Lithuania has repeatedly played a significant role in the international history of bodybuilding. The country hosted the first international bodybuilding competition in the socialist world, organized European and World Championships, and established Klaipėda as a permanent venue for major WFF–WBBF international events.
Equally important is the fact that Lithuanian enthusiasts preserved the traditions of bodybuilding even during the years when the sport was officially prohibited. Competitions continued to be organized despite political restrictions, and after Lithuania regained its independence, the country emerged as one of the most active organizers of international bodybuilding events.
Conclusions
The anniversaries celebrated in 2026 remind us that the history of Lithuanian bodybuilding is far more than a record of sporting achievements. It is a story of determination, vision, organizational leadership, and international recognition.
These milestones provide an opportunity to honor the pioneers, organizers, and athletes who built the foundations of Lithuanian bodybuilding and to pass this remarkable legacy on to future generations.
Looking ahead to the 60th International "Amber Prix" Tournament in 2027, it is evident that Lithuania continues to write new chapters in bodybuilding history. The achievements of the past six decades have become an integral part not only of Lithuania's sporting heritage but also of the history of international bodybuilding.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
UNPRECEDENTED GRAND CHAMPIONSHIPS IN VILNIUS
Bodybuilders' Gift to the President of the World Federation
While preparing to celebrate the fortieth anniversary of its activities in 2005, the World Fitness Federation (W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. – World Fitness Federation / World Body Building Federation) organized one of the largest and most significant events in its history—the World Amateur and Professional Championships. The event took place at the Vilnius Congress Concert Hall and became an outstanding occasion not only in the history of Lithuanian bodybuilding but also in the development of international physique sport.
A total of 742 athletes from nearly forty countries participated in the championships. This number remains the highest ever recorded in the history of W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. world championships and stands as an all-time federation record. The achievement demonstrated both the rapid international growth of the federation and its increasing prestige within the global bodybuilding community.
Another remarkable feature of the championships was the live television broadcast transmitted worldwide. At that time, such a broadcast represented a highly complex and expensive technical undertaking. The project was supported by the Lithuanian telecommunications company AB "Lietuvos Telekomas," which allocated 144,000 Lithuanian litas (approximately €41,000) for the broadcast. The live transmission significantly enhanced the international visibility of both the federation and Lithuania as a country capable of organizing world-class sporting events.
The championships also received official support from the Government of the Republic of Lithuania. The opening ceremony was attended by Algirdas Raslanas, Director General of the Lithuanian Department of Physical Education and Sports. Among the distinguished guests were Members of the Lithuanian Parliament and Government, including Julius Dautartas, Antanas Bosas, and Kęstutis Virketis. Their participation reflected the importance attached to the event as an international sporting and diplomatic occasion.
The honorary diplomas presented to the athletes were signed by Algirdas Butkevičius, then Minister of Finance of the Republic of Lithuania, who would later become Prime Minister.
The Overall World Champions were Aleksandr Baldin (Russia), Rachel Kauppila (Finland), and Lithuania's Jolanta Mileriūtė. The international corporation "Fabrikantas" presented each of them with original diamonds, symbolizing the prestige and exceptional status of their victories.
Following the championships, an international press conference was held at ELTA, the Lithuanian National News Agency. Afterwards, the heads of the foreign delegations were officially received at the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania, where a ceremonial luncheon was hosted in their honor. These meetings further strengthened international cooperation and contributed to the continued expansion of the federation around the world.
Bodybuilders' Gift to the President of the World Federation
The most emotional moment of the championships came during the awards ceremony. After the presentation of medals and trophies, representatives of the participating countries and numerous athletes surprised W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. President Dr. Edmundas Daubaras with an extraordinary gift—a bronze bust of himself.
The surprise had been secretly prepared well in advance and remained completely confidential until the final moments of the ceremony. The initiative belonged to Natalija Murnikovienė, one of the most celebrated Lithuanian female bodybuilders of all time, who had been coached for many years by Dr. Edmundas Daubaras. Together they achieved numerous victories at European and World Championships, becoming one of the most successful coach-athlete partnerships in Lithuanian bodybuilding history.
The bronze bust symbolized not only personal gratitude toward an outstanding coach but also the appreciation of the international bodybuilding community for a man whose life's work had become inseparable from the development of the W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. Federation. It recognized his decades of organizational leadership, his efforts in establishing international cooperation, organizing World Championships, and promoting the independent development of international bodybuilding.
Conclusions
The W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. World Amateur and Professional Championships held in Vilnius became one of the most important events in the history of the federation. The record number of participants, the worldwide live television broadcast, the official support of the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, and the attendance of numerous international delegations demonstrated that the federation had reached the highest level of international recognition during that period.
Equally significant was the symbolic tribute paid to W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. President Dr. Edmundas Daubaras. The presentation of a bronze bust was an exceptional gesture of respect, rarely seen in the history of international sport. Such honors are traditionally reserved for individuals whose achievements have had a lasting impact on the development of an entire sport.
The World Championships held in Vilnius not only strengthened the city's reputation as an important venue for major international bodybuilding events but also became a significant chapter in the history of Lithuanian sport. Their organizational success, international scale, and enduring historical importance continue to rank among the most remarkable achievements in the history of the W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. Federation.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION OF LONG-STANDING ACHIEVEMENTS
CONFERMENT OF THE U.N.E.S.C.O. AMBASSADOR OF PEACE TITLE
For many decades, the World W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. (World Fitness Federation – World Body Building Federation) has carried out extensive international activities that have attracted the attention and recognition of various international organizations. Through its initiatives promoting sport, healthy lifestyles, culture, and international cooperation, the Federation has made a significant contribution to strengthening international relations and promoting the name of Lithuania worldwide.
In September 2023, upon the nomination of Professor DSc. Yaroslav Kmit, Rector of the oldest Stavropigion University in Lviv, Ukraine, the President of the World W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. Federation, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras, was awarded the title of "U.N.E.S.C.O. Ambassador of Peace" (2023).
On the same occasion, Dr. Edmundas Daubaras was presented with a commemorative medal featuring a star, symbolizing this international recognition and distinction.
The title was awarded in recognition of Dr. Daubaras' long-standing contribution to the development of international cooperation, the unification of sports organizations from different countries, and the promotion of peace, mutual respect, and humanistic values through sport.
Throughout its decades of activity, the World W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. Federation has become one of the most active international sports organizations, bringing together representatives from dozens of countries. The Federation's championships, congresses, and international projects have contributed to strengthening sports diplomacy, expanding cultural cooperation, and fostering dialogue among nations.
CONCLUSION
The conferment of the "U.N.E.S.C.O. Ambassador of Peace" title upon Dr. Edmundas Daubaras represents a significant international recognition of his lifelong dedication and achievements. At the same time, it acknowledges the consistent efforts of the World W.F.F.–W.B.B.F. Federation in promoting international cooperation, the values of sport, and dialogue among nations. This distinction marks another important milestone in the Federation's history and reflects its growing authority and reputation within the international sports community.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
60 years of “Amber Prix”.
THE BOOK. Introduction
The history of bodybuilding has traditionally been written through the achievements of outstanding athletes, the evolution of physique competitions, and, above all, the rise of the International Federation of BodyBuilders (IFBB) after the 1970s. As a result, the earlier institutional foundations of bodybuilding have received comparatively limited scholarly attention. In particular, the establishment of international governing structures after the Second World War, the relationship between bodybuilding and the international weightlifting movement, and the development of bodybuilding within the socialist countries remain insufficiently examined.
This monograph argues that bodybuilding became an internationally organized sport considerably earlier than is generally assumed. Its institutional foundations were established between 1947 and 1969 through the creation of international governing bodies, the introduction of officially sanctioned championships, the gradual standardization of competition rules, and the emergence of national administrative structures. These developments transformed bodybuilding from a loosely organized physical culture activity into a sport administered through international and national institutions.
Particular attention is devoted to the period during which bodybuilding was administered within the Fédération Internationale Haltérophile et Culturiste (FIHC), whose role has largely been overshadowed in later historical accounts by the expansion of the IFBB. Although the IFBB subsequently became the dominant international bodybuilding organization, the administrative structures established under the FIHC provided the first internationally recognized framework for governing bodybuilding competitions. Reconstructing this earlier phase is therefore essential for understanding the institutional origins of the sport.
A second objective of this study is to examine the introduction of bodybuilding into the socialist countries. Existing historical narratives have generally portrayed bodybuilding as a predominantly Western phenomenon until the late twentieth century. Contemporary documentary evidence, however, demonstrates that organized bodybuilding had already begun to develop within the Soviet Union during the 1960s through officially organized competitions, emerging administrative structures, and increasing international contacts.
Within this broader process, Lithuania occupied a distinctive position. Lithuanian organizers were among the principal initiators of organized bodybuilding within the Soviet Union, organized some of the earliest international bodybuilding competitions held in the socialist world, and established the “Amber Prix International” tournament, which became one of the most influential amateur bodybuilding competitions in Eastern Europe and later in the World. These developments demonstrate that Lithuania's contribution extended beyond regional sporting activity and formed part of the broader institutional development of international bodybuilding.
Accordingly, this monograph does not seek to rewrite the general history of bodybuilding. Instead, it reconstructs one specific dimension of that history: the institutional evolution of international bodybuilding between 1947 and 1969. By analysing the creation of governing organizations, official competitions, administrative structures, and international cooperation, the study demonstrates how bodybuilding acquired institutional legitimacy within both Western and socialist sporting systems.
The study is based upon official competition records, congress proceedings, organizational documents, contemporary sporting publications, and archival materials relating to the administration of bodybuilding and weightlifting. These sources make it possible to reconstruct a formative period in the history of bodybuilding that has received comparatively limited attention in the existing historiography.
Rather than focusing primarily on individual champions or the evolution of training methods, the chapters that follow examine the organizations, institutions, and administrative decisions that shaped the early development of international bodybuilding. Beginning with the incorporation of bodybuilding into the international sports system in 1947, the study traces the establishment of official international championships, the expansion of bodybuilding into the socialist countries, the creation of Soviet organizational structures, and the emergence of Lithuania as one of the principal centres of bodybuilding development in Eastern Europe and later in the World.
More information is on international site www.wff.lt
The 2017 “Amber Prix” International Tournament
In 2017, the international fitness and bodybuilding tournament “Amber Prix” celebrated its 50th anniversary in Klaipeda, Lithuania. Over five decades, the tournament has become one of the oldest and most prestigious fitness and bodybuilding events in Europe, earning international recognition and respect within the sports community.
In the same year, the World Amateur and Professional Championships were held in Kaunas, Lithuania, while the European Championships took place in Germany. In 2017, India hosted the international WFF–WBBF “World Grand Prix” tournament and the 6th Asian Championship.
The jubilee edition of the “Amber Prix” attracted special international attention. Through the mediation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania, the global television network CNN prepared and broadcast a report on the event, reaching billions of viewers worldwide. Following the competition, the heads of foreign delegations were officially received at the Seimas of the Republic of Lithuania.
198 аthletes from 17 countries participated in the tournament: Belgium, Belarus, Cyprus, Estonia, Germany, India, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, South Africa, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan.
Competition Results
(Top Three Places in Each Category)
Fit-Kids Division
Up to 10 Years
1. Aleksandra Stukanova (Russia)
2. Varvara Ponomarenko (Russia)
3. Egle Mickute (Lithuania)
Up to 12 Years
1. Yekaterina Kozelkina (Russia)
2. Yelena Truselko (Ukraine)
3. Nadezhda Marchenko (Ukraine)
Aerobic Fitness
Open Category
1. Yuliya Gerasimova (Russia)
2. Asta Butkute (Lithuania)
3. Yekaterina Sudarenko (Ukraine)
Fitness Model Division
Juniors up to 18 Years
1. Karolina Beinaroviča (Latvia)
2. Kristina Tutkute (Lithuania)
3. Yelizaveta Troshina (Lithuania)
Youth up to 21 Years
1. Rugilė Blaskeviciute (Lithuania)
2. Yelizaveta Redkina (Lithuania)
3. Anna Morozova (Russia)
First Category
1. Ugnė Kukyte (Lithuania)
2. Jana Zenovic-Leskevic (Latvia)
3. Yelizaveta Mironenko (Russia)
Second Category
1. Sandra Mockute (Lithuania)
2. Židrūnė Mikelenaite (Lithuania)
3. Yelena Bitineva (Latvia)
Third Category
1. Ugnė Gotautaite (Lithuania)
2. Yelena Lisitskaya (Uzbekistan)
3. Kerstin Kristine Kremer (Germany)
Bikini Division
Youth up to 21 Years
1. Angelina Gvozdeva (Russia)
2. Sonia Lorzić (Serbia)
3. Evelina Stumbryte (Lithuania)
First Category
1. Vaida Narkiene (Lithuania)
2. Giedrė Cernecke (Lithuania)
3. Karolina Engelin (Germany)
Second Category
1. Marlies Vileke Hoornaert (Belgium)
2. Olga Listopadova (Belarus)
3. Laila Trapp (Germany)
Veterans over 40 Years
1. Marina Legenzova (Lithuania)
2. Ineta Rijniece (Latvia)
3. Irina Wagner (Germany)
Figure Division
First Category
1. Halina Halavei (Cyprus)
2. Rasa Senkute (Lithuania)
3. Larisa Rusakevich (Uzbekistan)
Second Category
1. Asta Butkute (Lithuania)
2. Yekaterina Grebenkova (Russia)
3. Giedre Savickaite (Lithuania)
Third Category
1. Natalia Abramova (Russia)
2. Filiz Ivenic (Turkey)
3. Monika Schreiber (Germany)
Men's Categories
Athletes with Disabilities
1. Arturas Bolycevas (Lithuania)
Sports Fitness Division
Youth up to 21 Years
1. Markas Dolgunovas (Lithuania)
2. Laurynas Griskevisius (Lithuania)
3. Vladimir Kondratyev (Russia)
Veterans over 60 Years
1. Vladimir Muran (Russia)
First Category
1. Mindaugas Stonkus (Lithuania)
2. Oguntade Ajadi Lookman (Belgium)
3. Haluk Kucuk (Belgium)
Second Category
1. Artiom Sokolov (Russia)
2. Gytis Neverauskas (Lithuania)
3. Brahim Benhaddou (Belgium)
Muscle Model Division
First Category
1. Rahul Joshi (India)
2. Viktar Shpakouski (Belarus)
3. Sandro Piccirillo (Italy)
Second Category
1. Anton Spilniuk (Cyprus)
2. Ajay Kumar Godara (India)
3. Denis Antonov (Russia)
Body Athletic Division
First Category
1. Sergey Strelnikov (Cyprus)
2. Alexey Kuzmichyov (Russia)
3. James Anthony Hellewell (United Kingdom)
Second Category
1. Sergey Taratynov (Russia)
2. Sien Cuvelier (Belgium)
3. Anton Trekhnov (Russia)
Bodybuilding
Up to 100 kg
1. Yevgeny Baishev (Russia)
2. Alexey Kochedykov (Russia)
3. Mantas Leksius (Lithuania)
Over 100 kg
1. Maros Kanasz (Slovakia)
2. Andrius Blazys (Lithuania)
3. Viktor Morozov (Russia)
Veteran Bodybuilding
Up to 50 Years
1. Normunds Jurans (Latvia)
2. Aleksandr Budaragin (Russia)
3. Ravil Roman Denikayev (Russia)
Over 60 Years
1. Freddy Gaston Van Puyenbroeck (Belgium)
2. Vidmantas Malakauskas (Lithuania)
3. Vasyl Adnenko (Ukraine)
Overall Champions
Women: Halina Halavei (Cyprus)
Men: Maros Kanasz (Slovakia)
60 Years of Bodybuilding in Lithuania
What Has Been Truly Significant?
The year 2026 marked the 60th anniversary of organized bodybuilding in Lithuania. During these six decades, the sport has experienced periods of growth and decline, political restrictions and official bans, the restoration of Lithuanian independence, and eventually international recognition.
This time, however, we will not dwell on those historical chapters. We will not discuss the years when bodybuilding was officially banned (1973–1987), nor the struggle for international recognition following the restoration of Lithuania's independence. These topics have already been covered extensively in our previous historical publications.
Instead, let us look at bodybuilding history from another perspective. If we were asked today to identify the events that became true milestones in Lithuanian bodybuilding, which would they be? Which competitions not only took place but also left a lasting mark on history, attracted public attention both in Lithuania and abroad, and contributed to promoting the country's name internationally?
In our opinion, there are only a few.
First and foremost is the "Amber Prix International", first organized in Klaipėda in 1967. Over the decades it has become not only Lithuania's oldest bodybuilding competition but also one of the oldest continuously organized traditional bodybuilding tournaments in the world. Political systems have changed, federations have come and gone, competition rules have evolved, yet the “Amber Prix” has endured. Thousands of athletes from dozens of countries have competed on its stage, making the tournament one of the true symbols of Lithuanian bodybuilding.
Another event frequently mentioned is the "Komsomol Cup," organized in Kaunas beginning in 1979. Without question, it was an important competition during the Soviet period and ranked among Lithuania's major bodybuilding events of that era. Yet today one may reasonably ask: how many people still remember its champions, its history, or its influence on international bodybuilding? Time itself ultimately determines what deserves a permanent place in history.
Following the restoration of Lithuania's independence, entirely new opportunities emerged for organizing major international championships.
In 1996, 1997, and 1998, Lithuania hosted government-supported NABBA European Championships in Klaipėda, Vilnius, and Palanga, followed by the 1998 WFF World Championship. These were landmark sporting events. Lithuania's largest daily newspapers, Respublika and Lietuvos rytas, covered them extensively. Television reports were broadcast by Eurosport, Lithuanian National Television, and LNK Television. Special commemorative magazines were published and distributed both in Lithuania and abroad.
Lithuanian bodybuilding reached an even higher level between 2004 and 2008, when the Government of the Republic of Lithuania supported the organization of WFF-WBBF Amateur and Professional World Championships in Vilnius.
These championships entered bodybuilding history for several reasons. In 2004, for the first time in the history of bodybuilding, a World Championship was broadcast live on the Internet to a global audience. At that time, this represented an exceptional technological achievement.
The 2005 World Championship attracted 742 athletes, remaining one of the largest bodybuilding championships ever organized in terms of participation. The Overall Champions received genuine diamonds as their awards, making it one of the most unique prize presentations in the sport's history.
Each of these championships was accompanied by professionally produced magazines and DVD films, distributed free of charge during international bodybuilding events worldwide. These publications played an important role in promoting Lithuania as an internationally recognized organizer of major bodybuilding competitions.
Special mention should also be made of the anniversary editions of the “Amber Prix”.
The 40th “Amber Prix International” became a national event of exceptional importance. It received official support from the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, while the Parliament approved dedicated funding within the national budget. Lithuanian National Television produced a special report on the event. A trilingual commemorative magazine and DVD were published and distributed internationally. Sports magazines in England, Austria, Argentina, and Russia also featured the championship.
The 50th “Amber Prix International” attracted even greater international attention when it was featured by CNN, bringing the event to a worldwide television audience numbering in the hundreds of millions.
Another fact deserves consideration.
Only recently did we learn that an IFBB World Championship had been held in Kėdainiai two years earlier. However, the event received virtually no coverage from Lithuania's national press or television, and the general public remained largely unaware that such a championship had even taken place.
This naturally raises an important question: is the title "World Championship" alone sufficient for an event to become historically significant?
History is not preserved by official titles alone. It remembers those events that reach society, attract international attention, leave documented evidence, are recorded by the media, appear in books and archives, and continue to be remembered decades later.
Looking Ahead
In 2027, Klaipėda will host the 60th “Amber Prix International”, celebrating sixty consecutive years of one of the world's oldest traditional bodybuilding competitions.
The 2026 tournament welcomed nearly 300 athletes representing ten countries, demonstrating that the competition remains active, respected, and attractive to the international bodybuilding community.
A comprehensive historical volume of nearly 400 pages dedicated to the “Amber Prix” is currently being completed in Lithuanian, English, and Russian. The book brings together archival documents, historical photographs, personal recollections, and authentic records accumulated throughout six decades.
It is expected that the anniversary celebration will gather bodybuilding veterans, former champions, international federation officials, distinguished guests, and representatives of the highest institutions of the Republic of Lithuania. It will provide an appropriate opportunity to honor all those whose dedication helped build the history of Lithuanian bodybuilding.
Conclusions
Sixty years provide sufficient historical perspective to evaluate the development of bodybuilding in Lithuania objectively.
The historical importance of a sporting event is determined not merely by the fact that it took place or by its official title. Its true significance lies in its continuity, international recognition, public visibility, documentary legacy, and its ability to remain in collective memory.
Over the past six decades, hundreds of bodybuilding competitions have been organized in Lithuania. Only a small number, however, have become genuine historical landmarks remembered long after they were held. These are the events that shape the history of the sport, strengthen a nation's international image, and become part of its lasting cultural and sporting heritage.
For this reason, the upcoming 60th “Amber Prix International” is far more than another bodybuilding competition. It symbolizes the entire history of Lithuanian bodybuilding and reminds us that lasting achievements are built not upon isolated victories, but upon decades of consistent work, continuity of tradition, and respect for history itself.
Much more information is on international site www.wff.lt
