Police Corporal May Ann Gorre of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) earned runner-up honors in the True Novice Bikini category at the Classic Warrior bodybuilding competition held in Manila on July 5. Assigned to the Tugbo Police Station, Gorre balances demanding police duties with rigorous bodybuilding training through discipline, consistency, and time management.
From Home Workouts to Competitive Stage
Gorre began bodybuilding during the COVID-19 pandemic, working out alone at home. A fellow police officer encouraged her to join a gym, where she discovered a supportive community. "At first, I was hesitant because I was used to working out alone at home. But when I joined the gym, I found a community where I built new friendships. It also became a healthy way to relieve stress after work," she said.
She made her bodybuilding debut in November 2022 in Davao City. Since then, she has competed in events across Mindanao, steadily improving her results. Her achievements include a championship in Cagayan de Oro City, fourth-place finishes in the 2024 Body Evolution competition and in General Santos City, and now a runner-up finish in Manila.
Discipline and Time Management Key
Balancing police work and competitive bodybuilding requires careful planning. "When it is time for my workout, that is my focus. When it is time for work, that is also my focus. It is all about discipline, priorities, and proper time management," Gorre said. The biggest challenge, she admitted, is getting enough rest: "Our biggest challenge is sleep because police officers rarely get the recommended eight hours of rest, especially while preparing for competitions."
Now 35, Gorre said bodybuilding has strengthened qualities that also help her perform her duties as a police officer. "For me, bodybuilding has taught me discipline, hard work, consistency, and time management. Those values help me perform my responsibilities as a police officer every day," she said.
Support System and Inspiration
Gorre credited her family, friends, colleagues, and fellow police officers for supporting her journey. "My siblings, friends, and co-workers have always supported me. Without them, I would not have achieved what I have today," she said. Among her proudest moments is hearing her name announced during competitions, knowing it reflects months of sacrifice and preparation. "It was the result of months of hard work, discipline, consistency in training, proper nutrition, and managing everything. Standing on that stage made every sacrifice worth it," she said.
Looking back, Gorre hopes her story encourages more people—especially women—to prioritize their health and pursue their goals regardless of age or profession. "It is never too late to start. You do not have to be an athlete to prioritize your health. Every small step counts. Invest in yourself, stay consistent, trust God's timing, and do not be afraid to dream. Sometimes, the biggest battle is simply choosing to become a better version of yourself every day," she said.
She also thanked the Dabawenyos who continue to support her both as a police officer and an athlete. "I am grateful to everyone who has supported me, especially my family, friends, and fellow police officers. Their encouragement made it possible for me to continue pursuing sports while serving the community. I am proud to represent the Philippine National Police and prove that dreams can be achieved through discipline, hard work, and consistency," she said.
