Last night before the finals at the Jacksonville Pro, I caught up with IFBB rookie bikini pro Juliana Daniell. Juliana made her pro debut at finished in the top ten. During prejudging she caused a little uproar with a pose that looked like she was mooning the crowd. Turns out she was wearing new shoes and nearly fell on her face. Juliana shares and important lesson, don’t try anything new for the first time on stage and her case new shoes. She’s a sweet, beautiful girl with a lot of potential.
Davana Medina was slated make her return to the IFBB stage this weekend but fans will have to wait. I’m told that due to personal circumstances Davana Medina has withdrawn from Hartford show. She will be making a decision as to where her IFBB Pro Bikini debut will take place. Check back to see where she’ll end up next.
I had her pegged as a top three contender. Who will move into that spot? We’ll see when prejudging takes place on Friday.
We caught up with IFBB Pro Dina Al-Sabah two weeks out from her return to the competitive stage. In part one, she discusses her background on and off the stage. Find out how many degrees she has to her credit and how many different languages she speaks. Dina is one of the only competitors to compete in bodybuilding, fitness, figure and now bikini.
Stay tuned for part two and three from this interview.
Earlier in the month, I speculated that 3x Figure Olympia Champion Davana Medina was eyeing a return to the competitive stage. There’s no need to speculate any longer as her management, FMG, confirmed with me today that she is coming back. I had a chance to speak with Davana at the Team Universe contest and she hasn’t changed a bit since her days on stage, except a little less muscular. She’s teamed up with fellow Olympia Champion, Adela Garcia for her new bikini training.
3x Figure Olympia Champ Davana Medina and her manager, J.M. Manion.
The following press release was issued today.
FMG PRESS RELEASE July 14, 2010 – Anybody who was at the 2010 NPC Team Universe Championships this past weekend in N.J. had an opportunity to see Figure pioneer & the only 3-time IFBB Figure Olympia champion Davana Medina enjoying the competition. Those that saw her realized she wasn’t just here as a spectator, she was hear to do some research. Everybody was asking her about those rumors of her comeback to competition. Davana didn’t let on then but we are here to confirm the rumors that Davana Medina is returning to the IFBB & will be making her return competing in the 2010 IFBB Europa Show Of Champions Pro Bikini in Hartford on July 23rd & 24th. And she has re-signed with FMG who had the great pleasure of managing Davana Medina’s entire NPC & IFBB career starting in 2001 until her retirement. Davana is also the first former FMG athlete that we have re-signed to work with.
Former FMG athlete & another IFBB Figure pioneer Jaime Franklin reconnected Davana with us at the 2009 Arnold Fitness Weekend. Initially we thought she might return in Figure but after lengthy discussions with Davana the new IFBB Bikini division seemed to be the perfect fit of what she was looking to accomplish.
Next was getting Davana a trainer to help her get on stage in 2010 to qualify for the inaugural 2010 IFBB Bikini Olympia. That trainer turned out to be her old friend, FMG athlete & 4-time IFBB Fitness Olympia champion Adela Garcia.
Adela stated, “I am honored and excited to be working with Davana as we go way back. Davana is an extremely hard working athlete & when she puts her mind into a goal, she goes after it all the way. When I was told about Davana returning to compete I reached out to her & ever since Davana & I have been talking about her returning into competition. I knew she wanted to compete again & once I knew she was game, I told her “Girl, I am your girl & we are in it to Win it”. You have 2 Olympia Champions mentality & all you create is fire to Win. Davana will step on that Bikini Olympia stage ready and O.F.F. Challenge is ecstatic to have her on board. Thank you so much for the great opportunity to be part of your new journey Davana. Thank you FMG for trusting me to bring her ready to do some damage.”
Look out because Davana Medina is back to rock IFBB Bikini the way she did IFBB Figure in the last decade!
Call it a comeback. The last time we saw IFBB Pro Vicki Nixon on stage was 2007 as a bodybuilder. The New Jersey resident will return to the stage next month but not as a bodybuilder. Nope, Vicki will take the stage as a figure pro. You may be asking yourself why figure? Vicki is lucky to be alive, much less compete at any level. In 2008, she was involved in a devastating car crash and has been battling back ever since. Vicki’s doctors said her competitive career was over. She didn’t get the memo. I caught up with Vicki to learn more about her journey to compete once again.
HB: Originally from? VN: I was born in Memphis, TN.
HB: Currently reside in? VN: I live in New Jersey right now and have been here since 1995 when I married a NJ police officer whose job was what kept us here. In October he retires after 25 yrs of service and we will move to our Florida condo in Palm Coast where we will continue to work part time as personal fitness trainers. He’s also a massage therapist.
HB: That’s awesome. Please tell your husband thanks for his years of service.
HB: Your occupation? VN: I have been a personal fitness trainer on and off for 26 yrs.
HB: How did you get into competing? VN: I got into competing around 1985. A friend of mine put a magazine in front of me at the gym with Rachel Mclish on the cover and Cory Everson was in the magazine and he said, “what do you think about the way this women look?” I thought she was stunning and had just enough muscle for my liking… he then said with my genetics and focus I could look like that too. Long story short 6 months later I was preparing for a show. I was 25 when I stepped on stage. That was the beginning of my very long passionate relationship with bodybuilding and the stage. I had found my happy place…the gym.
HB: In 2008 you were in a car accident. Can you share what happened and what injuries you sustained? VN: On Dec 20th 2008 at 10:48am my husband and I were on our way (with a truck load of Christmas gifts, our 2 small dogs and 2 weeks worth of clothes) for a Christmas vacation. We were going to spend half our vacation in Hilton Head, SC with my parents and the other half in our Florida condo which is 3 hrs away from Hilton Head. Long story short, we had just gassed up and were getting back on I-95 South bound in Dunn, NC and as we went through an intersection a lady blew the red light and t-boned my side of the truck, I was the passenger. On impact the truck rolled several times and caught on fire because she was guessed to be going about 55 miles an hour. When the truck stopped I saw my hubby seemed to be ok and I was then in “save my dogs mode”. I climbed out and looked in the back seat where they had been and at that time I was screaming where’s the dogs?! My husband said that they were under his feet on the floor board of the drivers seat! That means they flew all over that truck as it rolled. One dog is 3lbs and the other is 6lbs and they are our babies, as we were unable to have children. In a nutshell I was in shock and didn’t even know how badly I was injured at the time. Since I saw the car coming I braced and the impact caused several herniated disks in my neck and back…with 25 torn labrums in my shoulders and terrible soft tissue damage throughout my body. Thank GOD we both had seats belts on! Both dogs were injured and had to be hospitalized, one for 5 days with a bruised liver and the other had a bruised sternum. I am still in therapy for my injuries but blessed to be here to tell about it and even MORE blessed to have muscle that saved my life the doctors say.
A look at Vicki’s truck after the 2008 crash.
HB: What’s been the biggest challenge for you since the accident? VN: As I began to get better about 6 months after the accident I was able to use my weight training as part of my rehab. I just had to go VERY light. I was told that with all my injuries I couldn’t lift heavy again or I would end up making things much worse. So with good PT and rehab I have be able to work my way back to pretty good conditioning. There’s still the pain and daily migraines.. I feared being in a car again and my motorcycle. Not to mention my pro bodybuilding career was over or so the doctors told me.
HB: How do you mentally get back in the competition mode? VN: I have been through so much in my life. It seemed that with all my injuries and issues at hand I began to worked even harder to get back into shape. I spoke to Kim Oddo (my trainer who worked with me after I got my IFBB Pro card in 2004 until my last bodybuilding Pro show in 2007 at the Jan Tana) about possible transforming to figure. I had tossed that idea around before back in 2004 right before I got my IFBB Pro card. I actually did 3 figure shows that SAME year and did well! But as luck has it, I won the overall at Team Universe in 2004 in New York! Kim basically said…why keep thinking about it… JUST DO IT! So here I am 4 weeks out from mt 1st IFBB Pro figure show! Doing the same show I won my pro card at. Kim and I started this transformation back in Oct 2009!! So at this point I have been dieting and training my butt off for 8 months!
HB: So it’s not a mistake that your name is on the IFBB competitor list for the NY PRO Figure? VN: No mistake I am coming back to the stage as a Pro Figure competitor.
HB: What’s the biggest difference training for a figure competition vs bodybuilding? VN: Training for figure is TOTALLY different for me than bodybuilding because I had the muscle but I had to downsize it and have more of a “toned down ” look as Kim says. So to take off what took me 20 plus yrs to get was so strange to me. I have to train with light weights and high reps…circuit style training, one exercise after the other with NO break in between and I do 4 times around with cardio after each circuit! Then I was up to 80 mins a day of cardio on top of the circuit training! So I am in the gym about 2 hours on circuit days and 1 1/2 the other days. Its like night and day how I trained for bodybuilding.
HB: Will we see you got back to bodybuilding? VN: If I ever wanted to go back to bodybuilding, my body would have to dictate that. At this point with all my injuries… it’s a NO. Herniations don’t go away and I am not into surgery plus I have bone on bone in both knee’s and large hole in my right femur. I need a femoral/knee replacement and heavy weights would KILL me and send me right to the operating room.
HB: Are you planning to compete in any other figure shows or are you one and done? VN: I have the Europa show 2 weeks after the NY Pro and then we are moving in October. I will take some time off, reflect and see how I feel before I decide to do anything else. I will be 50 yrs young this September, so I will also be the oldest IFBB Pro Figure competitor ever! lol! This new journey is not about where I place. It’s just to prove to myself that I can compete regardless of what life throws at me, I missed the stage and I love the ladies I meet along the way, it’s like a big family in the IFBB. And its not over till its over:)
HB: Do you still train other people for contests? VN: I will continue to train others for shows as I do now, I have several girls now that are preparing for shows, bodybuilding and Figure. When we move to Florida, my husband and I want to both do it as a Team, we also have posing classes where we train in Pennsville, NJ right now and between us there’s 50 yrs of experience. He’s competed as long as I have!
HB: Do we get a sneak peak at what you’ll be bringing to the stage as a figure competitor? VN: I have no pics to reveal at this time. I want the stage to be the 1st time anyone sees me as a Figure Pro.
HB: Thanks for sharing your story with Hardbody. Where can people find out more about you? VN: Thank you for your interest me and my come back. I am so excited and a bit nervous to be honest! The change from bodybuilding to Figure means so many different things and wearing 5 inch heels is one of them. Let’s Hope I don’t slip and fall! I do have a website that Colette Nelson and Ron Durkin created for me in 2004, it’s www.vickinixon.com and you can find me on facebook under my name. I have an awesome DVD documentary out about some of the adversities I have been through in my bodybuilding journey and there are many. It reviles the person behind the physique. So many people see us as a fit body and don’t really know what we have been through to get to where we are. I shared very personal issues about my life in the DVD. I’ve received fantastic reviews from all who have viewed it. Mike Pulcinella was in my life creating it for 2 yrs and hes become a very dear friend of mine in the process. My DVD is called “Beyond The Pain” and you can purchase it on my website in my Store area.
HB: Thanks Vicki and we’ll see you in New Jersey next month! VN: Thank you So much for this opportunity to share another part of my journey.
A number of people have voiced their opinion on the new bikini division. That’s to be expected. I’ve voiced my opinions based on attending nearly every NPC National bikini show and every IFBB Pro Bikini show (except for New Zealand). Most of the things I’ve seen written online are based on hearsay and not from people attending the pro shows. One “industry expert” recently commented on a bikini competitor’s posing as “crass” but based the opinion by viewing photos online. I’ve mentioned a few times that you shouldn’t base opinions of the bikini division on photos. Everyone is entitled to their opinion but consider the source and what they’re basing it on. There are still a few people who aren’t fans of the new division but that’s to be expected. Figure wasn’t well received when it was introduced.
After the 2010 Pittsburgh Pro Bikini competition I went straight to the voice who matters most… IFBB women’s head judge Sandy Williamson. Sandy addressed a number of things related to the bikini competition. If you’re a competitor or a trainer, PLEASE pay attention to what she says.
Sandy talks about suit choice, presentation and what type of physique the judges are (or should be) looking for. At the end of the video IFBB Bikini Pro Nathalia Melo joins Sandy and shares why she (Nathalia) is the look for the new bikini division. Sandy also stresses the point about the division is new and they are still working through the criteria, just like they did in Figure. As of today, this is where the division is at and how competitors should prepare for it.
A big thanks to Sandy for taking the time to do this video and to J.M. Manion for helping arrange it to happen.
Alicia Marie is no stranger to the world of fitness. She’s graced a number of covers, hosted a couple of tv shows and has been connected to a few celebrities. She nabbed her IFBB Pro card in the Figure division but this weekend she’ll bring her sassy ass to the bikini stage. It’s a pretty obvious transition but I caught up with Ms. Alicia Marie to get the inside scoop directly from her. Check it out!
HB: I see you all over the place but where do you currently live?
AM: Los Angeles, CA – baby!
HB: Peeps want to know… Why the switch to bikini?
GOOD QUESTION! LOL! You see… I love Figure, but as a model AND because I am moving into being more of a ‘mainstream’ television personality, Bikini suits my physique in an attainable, “non-intimidating” way for people to relate to me and my programs. I am very tall for this sport — just under 5′10″. If I were to put on the muscle needed to complete my stature and physique for Figure, I might be walking around off-season at 160lbs (right now I am contest, 139, off-season, 145). That would just about kill my career off the stage. The plus side of it is – I love the stage theatrics for Bikini!! I am a natural HAM so the sexy walk and the ‘tude suit me just fine!!
HB: You a HAM? Get out. (note the sarcasm)
HB: What’s the best part of competing in NYC?
Steve and Bev have always had fabulous shows. Team Universe was always my favorite show as an amateur and coincidentally it is the show that I finally went pro in in 2008! I am originally from New York City so I get to go back home to Yankee country, see my family and do some (not as many as I’d like) of my favorite New York THINGS! Have to avoid the cupcake bar til AFTER contest….
I really never stress because I just like to have fun doing this, being a part of it and at the end of the day I feel so lucky to be up there with all those gorgeous and strong women!!!
HB: How do you eat healthy while traveling and being on the go non-stop?
Traveling and “on-the-go nonstop” just about describes my life PERFECTLY!! LOL I have to be super diligent and plan ahead like you wouldn’t believe. Not only am I packing food and supps, but I know ahead of time what the hotel is offering food wise AND if there is a grocery store close by… It takes planning ahead and not waiting til the last minute.
HB: What new projects do you have coming out or in the works that you can talk about?
I am FINALLY writing a BOOK! Very excited. It is basically THE book. Everything about everything in fitness and health according to ALICIA MARIE! LOL! My monthly column in Oxygen magazine, Ask Alicia, did so well and I get dozens of questions every month that I thought, it’s just TIME. So I am working on that like crazy!
BSN has me on the road making appearances…I love those!!!
I am doing some television things that I can’t breathe a word of yet — which I will tell you about first. Trust!
I am re-launching my website – with the same “look” but more user-friendly for me and for visitors! I am such a computer geek at heart. My boyfriend is a music and video producer so along with his things (ABC’s ‘V’) we just have fun making things happen. Maybe some more music videos down the pike…hmmmmm….
I also would love to get an Olympia nod in Bikini…we’ll see what goes down this contest year.
I stay busy and that is 100% how I like it!
HB: Okay I need another cup of coffee after that question. Give me a minute.
HB: Aight I’m good. Soo…
HB: Do you use the Ab Circle Pro?
Who? Hell no. The Ab Coaster all the way, baby!
HB: Will you be cheering for the Yankees or did you switch teams with the Cali move?
I BLEED PINSTRIPES — YANKEES!
HB: No more Braves? I kid. I kid.
HB: You’re around a number of celebrities. Any celebs you were star-struck when you met them?
Madonna – YES! As for the ones that ask me out, NO. A lot of celebrities hunt me down because they want me to write them a diet and fitness “Red Carpet Ready” program. LOL
Alicia Marie hang’n with celebs.
HB: Will you be rock’n the wig you wore in the music video?
You mean in Jace Hall’s “I Play W.O.W” (shameless plug) – over a million views on YouTube!!
I thought about the blonde one I wore in the video, BUT I think I will have to do my Bikini Pro debut in a pink fuschia glitter wig. I think the judges might like that touch and connect with it.Ha!
HB: Which of your fellow bikini competitors do you like the look they bring?
So many!!! I have been looking at the stage pictures and I am astounded at how gorgeous and naturally toned and tight the girls look. I do love Jelena’s physique – she knows that.
HB: Will we see you on stage again in the bikini division?
EUROPA in Hartford, CT!! That is actually where I grew up — so many of my old (and not so old) family and friends will be there…hopefully
HB: You’re a BSN athlete and featured in a few of their ads. What’s your favorite BSN product?
This is a tough one because I live on my BSN supps. Atrophex and Lean Dessert Protein (Vanilla and Cinnamon Roll) are my staples, but the new N.O. Xplode NT (Evolution series) is edging up a few notches for me! It’s incredible!
HB: Thanks Alicia! Good luck and we’ll see ya in the Big Apple.
If you’ve read the current issue of Muscle & Fitness Hers, you may have seen mention of this story. I wrote about a possible return of IFBB Fitness Champ Mia Finnegan in my “Twist & Turns” column. A few people have contacted me and asked if it’s all talk or if she is really going to get back on stage. I followed up with Mia… so what’s the scoop?
Longtime industry insider, Lonnie Teper put me in touch with Mia at the 2010 Arnold Classic and I had a chance to speak with her for a couple of hours. It was the first time I had met Mia and it was cool to chat with one of the pioneers of fitness. Mia has an extensive background in gymnastics and a resume full of impressive accomplishments. Mia brought her gymnastic skill set to the 1995 Fitness Olympia and left the first ever fitness champ in the IFBB.
Mia Finnegan at the 2010 Arnold Expo. Looking great at age 43!
Three kids and fifteen years later, the original Fitness Olympia champ is back. She confirmed with me that she will be competing in the 2010 Fitness Olympia at the age of 43. Mia says she’s never felt better and in the shape of her life. It’s a full-time job with children at ages 10, 7 and 4 so why come back now? When I asked her, she mentioned it’s something she wants to do and is physically able so why not? Hey can’t argue with that. As a past Olympia champion, Mia is pre-qualified to compete in the fitness portion of the Olympia. This holds true for all Olympia champs in their respective discipline. She couldn’t come back and compete in the Figure Olympia unless she qualified to do so.
Mia confirmed with me that she is coming back and she will be competing on the 2010 Fitness Olympia stage. When asked if she was certain of the comeback she shared, “Yee ha, rock-n-roll. Suit, music and routine moves selected, just putting it all together.” In case you doubt her commitment she knew exactly how many days it was until the show. Mia went also shared that she will be competing in the 2010 Europa Connecticut show. The event doesn’t have fitness so she will be competing in the figure division for the first time in her IFBB career. Why compete in figure before the Fitness Olympia? “It’s just as a warm up to the Fitness Olympia as I have not been on stage in 14 years,” Mia shared. She last competed in the 1996 Fitness Olympia where she finished in the runner-up position.
It will be interesting to see how she fairs against today’s pros. Can the original champ hang with the likes of Adela Garcia and Jen Hendershott? We’ll find out in September when Mia returns.
Nathalia Melo is two for two in her short competitive career. I caught up with the Brazilian Bombshell as she heads into the Pittsburgh Pro looking to secure her third consecutive bikini win. Nathalia came to the United States as an exchange student knowing very little English and a dictionary was her only friend. She was a law student but decided it wasn’t for her. Now she’s pursuing new adventures and is proof that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to with a hard work and determination.
IFBB Pro Safiya Johnson achieved IFBB Pro Status at the 2008 Team Universe event in the fitness division. She went on to compete in the 2009 Atlantic City Pro Fitness where she finished 10th. Safiya was the 2003 NPC Teen National Fitness Champ and after years of competing in fitness, she’s decided to switch to bikini. I caught up with Safiya days out from the Orlando Show of Champions and here’s what she had to say…
Photo by J.M. Manion – courtesy of Safiya Johnson.
Where are you living? Columbia, South Carolina
Why the switch to bikini from fitness? I have been competing in fitness non-stop since the age of 16. I guess you could say it has been my passion/obsession for over the past 8 years. While I will always have a deep appreciation for the sport of fitness and its athletes, I feel like I am better suited for bikini at this present moment. As a fitness competitor I have always struggled to keep up on a muscular level. I am naturally a smaller petite woman and putting on size has not always been the easiest thing for me. I still have a lot of developing to do before I can become competitive within the sport and I dont mind taking the time to develop those areas. I am not saying that I am hanging up my dancing shoes forever because it is certainly in my heart to perform and being on stage is where I know I belong. I do however feel the need to take a step back and put alittle time into “ME” and certain areas of my life that need my attention.
I feel that bikini is a great opportunity to showcase my athletic physique in its most natural state. I am excited to see the various shapes and sizes within the division and am confident that I will bring a good mixture of fit and feminity.
Why debut at this show in bikini? Honestly, the timing was right. I would of loved to have participated in the very first pro bikini show but New Zealand just wasnt an option for me. I do most of the funding for my shows so I have to pick and choose wisely and the Europa Show of Champions seemed like a good show for me to get my feet wet in bikini.
Some people will say, well Safiya fitness is on the decline why wouldn’t you compete in fitness? Fitness may be on the decline in numbers, but certainly not in the caliber of athletes. The beauty about this sport and the IFBB is that there are different divisions and as an athlete, I have the freedom to choose. It is not unsual to see an athlete compete in fitness one year and maybe figure the next. I am choosing what is best for me at this present moment and right now that is bikini. Each year, as my physique continues to change I will reassess my place within the sport and make the best decision.
What can people expect to see from you on stage in Orlando? I am really excited about Orlando. Even though I have graced the stage many times, I have never competed in bikini. But not to worry…there will be no “deer and headlights” here, lol. It will certainly be different experience for me, but I am confident that I will rock the stage and have fun with it. People can expect to see a petite yet curvier Safiya than they have seen in the past
One of the things NPC Bodybuilder Jerome Ferguson is known for is his wild posing to “Who Let the Dogs Out”. On Christmas Eve 2009, he took a different approach to letting the dogs out. He tied an engagement ring to a new puppy and let it loose on his girlfriend, IFBB Fitness Pro Marnie Holley. Jerome proceeded to get on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage. She graciously accepted and the two plan to wed this summer. I’m told they have something very special planned for the wedding but it’s a surprise and will be kept under wraps.
Congratulations!
Marnie is the 2007 CBBF Canadian National Fitness Champion and current IFBB Fitness Pro. She last competed at the 2009 Atlantic City Pro Fitness.
I caught up with IFBB Fitness Pro Bethany Wagner to get her thoughts on being added to the 2010 Arnold. She’ll be competing in the Fitness International for the first time and will face the challenge of a shorter prep than her competitors. Bethany also shared why she skipped the 2009 Fitness Olympia and more. Check it out.
HB: How did you hear you’d been added to the Fitness International list? BW: I received a phone call Monday morning. (January 18th)
HB: What were your thoughts when you’d heard? BW: I’m glad you asked for thoughts b/c there were a few.
What? Wow? Are you serious?
Oh my god can I get ready in time?
Since I was not invited originally I was going to wait and compete at the NY Pro Fitness in April. When I got the call I was only 1 week into my contest prep. My biggest concern right now is prep time. I usually do a 12 week prep… and I want to bring my best package every time I step on stage (especially the Arnold). I think I can do it.
HB: So you weren’t planning to do the Phoenix Pro show? BW: No. I would love to be able to do a “prep” show before the Arnold. However I am only allotted a specific amount of personal days, which limits when I can compete during the school year.
HB: Let’s take a look back for a minute. You took a pass at the Fitness Olympia last year – why was that? BW: Yes – I qualified for the Olympia in Atlantic City in September last year. I was so excited to place 3rd and it was such an honor to be invited to the Olympia. But, I have to put my career as a teacher and a coach first. In addition to teaching, I coach high school gymnastics and track. The weekend of the Olympia my team had a gymnastics meet. If I had qualified earlier I could have rescheduled the meet. Hopefully this year I will qualify in plenty of time to make both my careers work together!
HB: Ah so it’s true you ARE a teacher. What do you teach? BW: Yes its true! I have been teaching for 4 years. I teach high school biology to sophomores, and Anatomy and Physiology to seniors. As I mentioned before after school I coach gymnastics in the fall, and track in the winter and spring. Before that I was a Division I gymnastics coach at the University of Pittsburgh.
HB: Do your students follow your fitness career? BW: Yes. It is hard to hide leaving on Friday looking ‘normal’ and come back Monday with a great tan that peels and fades unevenly and turns a slight tint of orange sometimes. Lol. Don’t forget it is the age of the internet and google is a powerful tool. They always ask what I’m eating or tease me “Wagner its 3:00 isn’t it time to eat?”.
It has actually benefited me for them to know I am into lifting and fitness. As a coach they know I am knowledgeable in athletics, as a teacher I teach about the human body and being involved in fitness has greatly increased my knowledge. Plus, they know I can kick their butts if they don’t behave or do their homework.
HB: You tried your hand at Figure last year – did you like it and will we see you in Figure again this year? BW: I’m not sure. Competing in NY Pro Figure was a spontaneous decision. I had just competed in Atlantic City the weekend before, so I was already in shape. I live 30 minutes from TriBeca, there were no travel costs, so I decided to give it a try.
Also, I enjoy competing and there are only 5 Fitness Competitions a year (not including Arnold and Olympia). I hope it opened up an avenue to compete more.
HB: Last questions as I know you’re a busy woman. I heard you’re recently engaged. Is it true and if so how did the proposal go and when can we expect the wedding bells? BW: Yes I am recently engaged to Gaetano (Guy) Cisternino Jr.. (Who actually convinced me I will be ready in 7 short weeks!) We got engaged at a ski lodge in December. It was very sweet, very low key. We were just relaxing in front of the fireplace (watching football) – and he said he had an early Christmas present for me but it wasn’t wrapped so I had to close my eyes. He left to get the present and when he came back he got down on one knee…. I was scared to open my eyes b/c I wasn’t sure if it was real!
We are very excited and happy to say the least! We plan to be married January 2011.
HB: Congratulations on the proposal and the invite to the Arnold. We’ll see you there. BW: Thank you!
IFBB Pro Heather Armbrust is one of the top female bodybuilders in the game today. She’s considered by many to be the biggest threat to beating current Ms. Olympia and Ms. International, Iris Kyle. Unfortunately the remtach with have to wait until the Olympia stage in September. Heather has withdrawn her name from the 2010 Arnold competition due to an injury.
I caught up with Heather after the news was made public. When asked if she was ok and if the injury is career ending she shared, “It’s a minor set back. Actually, there are a few but I will deal with them and get them back to normal. I am tough and train through things that I never mention but it’s a mixture of pains and personal”.
Does this mean the end of her career though? “NO! I’m not done where would you get that? I am going to compete at the Olympia for sure. I want that title,” shared the clearly disappointed but anxious competitor.
Heather went on to say, “I apologize and thank everyone for their support. With the mixture of all that is going on, I just want them to understand that I’m doing what is best for the sport and to make a better me when I do step on stage so my supporters will be proud when I do get my win.”
We’ll see Heather back on stage this fall at the 2010 Ms. Olympia competition.
The Arnold Classic invites were announced last month, right before Christmas. A number of women were elated when Santa arrive early while others were left pondering why they’d been put on the naughty list. It’s not an easy task to make it on the invited list and several very good girls didn’t make the short list. Since that time there’s been some shuffling and it isn’t done yet.
First we learned that Kristal Richardson wouldn’t be able to compete due to her hernia surgery late last year. She will compete this year however the recovery is taking longer than expected. We then learned that Tracey Greenwood was out and will go under the knife for a knee surgery. Next up was Jen Hendershott who cited nagging injuries and personal issues. Earlier this week we learned that Jessica Paxson withdrew her name due to personal issues.
I’ve learned a fifth invited pro intends to withdraw her name from the list before the contracts are due this Friday. Look for more information on this soon.
A few people have asked me why so many women are opting out. My response – Life Happens. Injuries are unfortunate and never planned, especially to Fitness competitors. Sometimes life throws you a curveball and lives are affected. At the end of the day the pros are no different than you or I. They face many of the challenges we do and often times more. It’s unfortunate that we won’t see some of the industry’s best on stage but right behind them are other hungry, willing and accepting competitors worthy of a spot and a chance at the title.
Such is the case with the Figure International. Twitter followers of ArnoldSports learned that Cristina Casoni of Milan, Italy was added to the invited list. The Arnold committee could have easily added another U.S. competitor however they added an International Figure competitor. Those who complain that the event doesn’t invite enough International competitors might want to reconsider. Congratulations to Cristina for getting the invite.
I’ll post the final competitor lists this weekend once all the contracts are in and we know who will be on stage in Columbus.
IFBB Figure Pro Jessica Paxson Putnam posted on her facebook minutes ago, “Thank you to all my family, friends, & supporters. I appreciate the emails, posts, & tesxts….I’ve withdrawn from The Arnold for personal reasons. Thank you.”
This would have been Jessica’s first trip to the Figure International stage.
Jess becomes the fourth invited competitor to opt out of the 2010 Arnold.
Two-time Ms. Fitness International Champion, Jen Hendershott informed me that she will NOT be on stage competing for her third title this year. Stay tuned for more information on why fitness fans won’t be seeing her on stage and if this means retirement.
The current Fitness Olympia champion, Adela Garcia had a glow about her last night at the NPC National competitor check-in. Adela is usually a very happy, upbeat person to begin with but there was something different about her. She couldn’t stop smiling no matter what the conversation. A shiny gem, gracing her left hand, caught my attention which prompted me to ask… Adela what is that?! Like a kid in a candy store she enthusiastically responded with, “sorry to crush your dreams Isaac but I am now engaged.” Ahhhh Adela. You have to love her as she’s always got a joke or three.
Last Monday Adela went to get her hair styled at a friend’s house when she was told to go into a room different than usual. When she went entered the room her boyfriend of nearly two years, Trent Calavan had a ring surrounded by a heart of rose petals waiting for her. It was then he popped the question and the fitness champ graciously accepted his offer in marriage.
Adela all smiles when showing her engagement ring.
Adela and Trent met in a Texas gym and she tells me he didn’t really know who she was. The two were scheduled to go on a group date for their first outing but Trent canceled. The move prompted Adela to txt and ask him what was up with the dis. They ended up hitting a sushi place and as they say, the rest is history. No date has been set for the wedding but it’s obvious Adela couldn’t be happier.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Trent and he is a solid guy. Congratulations to the happy couple and all the best in your years ahead.
Curious how many people are competing in each division of this weekend’s NPC Nationals? Wonder no more, here’s the current competitor breakdown for each division. Note this could change once the check-in takes place on Thursday evening/Friday morning. As you can see Figure will dominate once again but note the number of bikini competitors has surpassed the female bodybuilding entries.
2009 NPC National Competitor Number Breakdown:
Bikini – 76
Female Bodybuilding – 74
Figure – 191
Men’s Bodybuilding – 195
IFBB Figure Pro Alicia Harris had a break out rookie year. She was competitive in every show she competed in this year and at the end, graced the prestigious Figure Olympia stage. Alicia also notched a cover for Muscle & Fitness Hers along the way. In the final chapter of 2009, she added yet another accolade to her already impressive young career… an endorsement contract with Optimum / ABB.
The head of athlete management for Optimum/ABB, Bob Corbett shared, “We’re VERY excited to announce that IFBB Figure Pro, Alicia Harris has joined Team ON/ABB. Alicia brings a fresh look and enthusiasm to our team and she’s an up and comer in the world of figure. We look forward to supporting her and know she will bring a great deal of insight and expertise to the team. Alicia will join fellow IFBB Pros, Jessica Paxson-Putnam, Hazal Nelson, Charles Dixon and George Farah to our team.”
When I congratulated Alicia on the signing she enthuastically told me, “It’s a blessing to get any kind of help inthis industry and I’m grateful that ON has given me the opportunity to represent them. I’m very grateful!”
Alicia’s first stop for ON/ABB will be at their booth for next week’s NPC Nationals. Congratulations Alicia on a kick ass year.
Mindi Smith is locked and loaded for her first NPC Figure competition, this weekend’s NPC Sacramento. I caught up with Mindi on the heels of theshow and she was kind enough to share a bit about herself. This is one California girl you won’t soon forget.
Name: Mindi Smith
Born/Raised in: Saginaw, Michigan
Currently Live in: Los Angeles, CA
What’s been the best part of living in California? I love the weather and it’s so beautiful! You have the ocean, mountains, valley, and an amazing climate all rolled into one state!
What made you move out of Michigan? I couldn’t bare the cold winters any longer and had wanted to move somewhere warm. I ended up in Florida!
What’s your favorite sport to participate in? Throughout school I was into Track & Field and was always competitive. I loved the adrenaline rush you get before they fire the gun!
Favorite sport to watch? Football
College or NFL? College
Favorite team? Ohio State
Whoa, wait. You’re from Michigan and you’re a Buckeye’s fan? Ha. My Dad is from Ohio and roots for them so I back him up and take the slack from all the Michiganders after me!
You’re a liscened real estate agent, right… Do you miss being in it? I have my license in Florida and California. I do miss how the economy was during the boom a few years ago!
This weekend you will be competing at the NPC Sacramento. What made you decide to compete in the NPC? I competed in my first show for the WBFF in September of this year which gave me the itch to push myself farther and be the best I could possibly be. As a result, that lead me to compete in the NPC.
Watch out for a determined Ms. Smith.
Did you ever consider competing in fitness? When I was little I was involved in dance and gymnastics, but that was long long ago. I have thought about possibly competing in fitness, but it would take a lot of work to see if I could pull off those incredible moves those girls do on stage!
You’ve enlisted the help of trainer Kim Oddo for your prep. How important has it been to have him assist with your prep? I was referred to working with Kim when I had inquired about possibly competing in the NPC. I have to say, meeting Kim has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life and it has just started! He’s an amazing guy who is so educated and well known in the industry, I couldn’t have asked to have met a better person to guide me in the right direction and help me be my best. He has taken all the headache out of everything and it has been smooth sailing since starting our journey and I’m so excited to see what the future holds for us!!
Will you be competing at the NPC Nationals in a couple weeks? Well, I have to place well at the NPC Sacramento Show to qualify for the NPC Nationals, but if it all goes successfully you’ll be seeing me there for sure!
You’ve done quite a few things in the fitness industry. What advice do you have for other women who are looking to get work or involved in the fitness modeling biz? I have been involved in the fitness industry for some time now and have done quite a few shoots for fitness magazines, videos/DVDs, and infomercials. Getting your face out there and networking, networking! Networking is a big part of growing as a fitness model!
You mentioned videos. You have your own YouTube channel and on there is a video fo you and fitness model, James Ellis. Do you think you can bench more than him? Haha! James is a great friend of mine and he’s been putting some extra hours in the gym lately. I’ll definitely put up a good fight, but in the end I think James would kick my butt!
How important is it as a model to have good images in your portfolio? Having a strong portfolio of fitness pictures to use to promote yourself is very important. You should take note of different fitness photographers you admire and try to network with them.
Anyone you want to give a shout out to? I want to give many thanks to Kim Oddo for everything he’s done for me. He’s gone over and above everything I had ever dreamed of and I am so very thankful. He’s truly a genuinely good person and I will be forever grateful! I can’t wait to go out there and make him proud!!
Thanks Mindi and all the best this weekend in Sacramento. If you’re like to see more of Mindi, visit her BODYSPACE page.
Last month, Monica Mark was awarded the overall figure title at the 2009 NPC Team Universe contest. She presented a refined physique showed promise heading into the pro ranks. The blonde beauty from California had her sights set on next weekend’s Sacramento Pro as her IFBB Figure debut. Unfortunately, that debut will have to wait.
Monica informed me that she was unfortunately been diagnosed with swine flu last Saturday. She is currently taking an antibiotic and attempting to rest. When I asked her how she was doing she shared, “It’s completely draining. I can’t exercise and have to take it easy.”
Monica was a favorite amongst many to leave her Mark in the top spots at this contest. Despite the disappointment, Monica is in good spirits and assures me we’ll see her on stage soon. Don’t be surprised if you see her make the Figure International at the Arnold her debut.
You’ve seen Kristal Marshall mentioned on this site a few times. She took home the overall bikini trophy at this year’s NPC USA contest and was runner-up earlier at the innagural bikini event. Now she’s adding another title to her list of accomplishments. Kristal tells me she has signed on with TNA wrestling. You might recall Kristal was a WWE diva before jumping into the fitness world. Now she’ll look to do both. You can catch Kristal and her man Bobby Lashley on SPIKE TV this Thursday night. Congrats on the continued success Kristal!
Kristal and Bobby return to wrestling. This time it’s with TNA Wrestling.
Kathleen Tesori has been a busy woman this year. Since winning the 2008 FLEX bikini model search contest, she’s gone on to do a number of things. I caught up with Kathleen for a quick video interview just as the 2009 Olympia Expo was getting started.
She served as a judge for the 2009 FLEX Bikini Model search and passed her title onto winner Amanda Latona.
Kathleen taking a break from her judging duties for a photo.
We posted a poll in July as to whether Kathleen should compete in Bikini or Figure and the results were split. During the time of the video interview she was two weeks out from competing in her first NPC figure competition. Kathleen checked back with the good news… she won the overall figure title at the NPC Utah Nutrimart Classic. She tells me she had a little held from her friend Felicia Romero for her contest prep. Felicia just a week out from her own show (which she also won) flew into lend a helping hand.
Felicia Romero and Kathleen Tesori with the hardware.
Kathleen with her overall trophy.
Kathleen had a great time competing so much so that she has her sights set on the 2009 NPC Nationals next month in Florida. She’s definitely one to watch at next month’s event.
As if preparing for a contest wasn’t enough, Kathleen landed a small but fun role in the MTV show Bully Beatdown. She plays the ring girl for the popular show that airs every Thursday on MTV. Kathleen looks like she could lay a pretty good beat down on some of the guys on the show.
Kathleen hard at work. Photos from MTV.com
Kathleen showing off her sexy side. Photos from MTV.com
We caught up with the newest BSN girl, Natasha Wicks at the 2009 Olympia Expo. Natasha won the UFC Octagon Ring Girl search in July. In case you missed the profile on her, check it out here. The Olympia Expo was just getting started when we chatted with the rising star. Natasha is a very sweet girl and welcomed addition to the BSN roster. Check out the video to find out more about this blonde beauty.
This weekend at the IFBB Ft. Lauderdale Cup, Anna Level will take the stage for the first time in five years. The last time we saw her compete was the 2004 Fitness Olympia where she finished tenth. So why did she decide to return now? I caught up with this seasoned pro to find out and also what she’s been doing since we last saw her.
Currently reside in:
Currently I live in Miramar, Florida.
Turned pro at:
I turned Fitness Pro in the year 2000, in New York.
Last Pro show:
Olympia 2004
Why did you stop competing?
I wanted to start a family. Competing & dieting was making it almost impossible. I wasn’t getting any younger either. So taking a break from competing was the right decision.
What have you been doing since you were last on stage?
I traveled for a while & did quite a few guest appearances with Weider, which I’m still sponsored by. I got pregnant and had my beautiful son James Rafael who is now two years old. All my time went to him so I was very busy raising & taking care of him. It is a full time job all by itself. I still kept myself involved in the industry though. I have a show, the Anna Level Fitness & Figure Classic in combination with the NPC West Palm Beach Bodybuilding Championship. I’m very proud to say this
was the sixth year of the show.
Why come back to the stage now?
More than anything to prove myself that even after having a baby & very little time for myself I still have it. I can get in shape & show that having a family can’t take away from keep pursuing your dreams. It’s just a personal goal.
How have you balanced being a mom and staying fit?
The baby keeps me pretty busy, he is pretty active but I need to make time for myself. Everything is about balance so my schedule is much better now, but before I used to train & eat around his schedule. You can’t function properly if you don’t eat & rest, we all know that. I just try to manage my time the best I can. Now I have a full time job as the Fitness Director of Metamorphecise Health & Spa, in Pembroke Pines. So talk about having balance try a family, traveling, guest posing, modeling,
training AND competing. Piece of cake. haha.
Good luck Anna and we’ll see you at the show.
Thank you.
See more of Anna on her web site: http://www.annalevel.net. Anna will be competing in FIGURE and not FITNESS at this show.
IFBB Figure Pro Felicia Romero had quite the weekend in Las Vegas. She placed 9th at the Figure Olympia but the bigger news came off the stage for this cover girl.
Damian & Felicia are all smiles.
While working the Olympia Expo her boyfriend, Damian Sergovia, sprung the big question on her. The nervous lad (and who wouldn’t asking the question around thousands of people) from Arizona asked Felicia to be his wife. Felicia tells me she is still in shock about the proposal but she’s super excited. No date has been set as of yet. Congratulations and all the best in your years ahead as husband and wife.
IFBB Pro Sonia Gonzales is hanging up her figure suit and saying so long the the competitive figure stage. Hold up, she’s not leaving IFBB competition.
The brown-eyed beauty has decided to make the transition from Pro Figure to Pro Bikini in 2010. When I asked Sonia what her thoughts were about the move she shared, “I’m really excited about my new venture. I think bikini is the right fit for me.” I’d have to agree that bikini does appear to be a better fit for Sonia, at least in the way we’ve seen the judging go as of late in the NPC shows. Will Sonia be rock’n the scrunchy bottoms in her debut? “Of course and for the next few months I’ll be working closely with my trainer and nutritionist, Kim Oddo, on changing my physique into a more streamlined bikini look,” she shared.
We look forward to seeing ya show’n some sass in the bikini division next year. Good luck Sonia!
This may be one of my favorite images of the year. Frame right you have one of the top female bodybuilders in the world, Heather Armbrust. Frame left you have the sad reality of what many Americans look like. Talk about capturing the extremes of body fat…
Heather eating at the Denver Airport before the Ms. Olympia.
Heather tells me she will be around 161lbs on stage which will be about 10-11 pounds lighter than she was at the Arnold. She is definitely lean and about ten minutes after she ate you could see her fill up and the veins popp’n. Heather is ready and sporting a darker hair color with no highlights.
We are just days out from the 2009 Fitness Olympia and with Jen Hendershott and Kim Klien out of the line-up there’s a handful of women who will likely contend for the title. One of those contenders is Columbus, Ohio resident Julie Palmer. Julie has improved her routines over the years and always fares well in the physique rounds. I caught up with the buckeye as she heads into her 7th Olympia, will it prove to be her lucky number?
Highest finish at the Olympia?
Last year. 4th place was my highest placing.
What’s the hardest part about preparing for the Olympia when you’ve done it so many times before?
I think the hardest part for me personally is that I have kids in my house who are getting ready to go back to school, football season is in full effect at my house and things are just crazy with all the fall competitions. So it makes it hard at time to make mself a priority. Especially this past week, we had 38 competitors preparing for our state show here in Columbus that I help co-promote ontop of the other 30 competitors who went to Team Universe. Some how I get everything done but it gets stressful.
You always place well in the physique rounds, will we see a repeat in Vegas with that?
I am hoping so. I am really happy with how I am looking right now. I have made some improvements since the Arnold to my physique so I am very anxious to get on stage.
What can we expect from your routine next week?
I won’t tell much but it is not the same routine as the Arnold but it is fun.
With Jen Hen out and Adela coming off an injury you’re in the mix for the title. Does it make you nervous or more focused as you prepare for the show?
I try not to get nervous. I always try to focus on just what I need to do to be better than I was last year when I was in Vegas and continue to show the judges that I am improving. My biggest competition is myself.
Adela won the Europa and Tracey just won the Atlantic City show. Why don’t we see Julie Palmer’s name this year on the list other than the Arnold and Olympia?
Well, I had plans to do some of the early spring shows this year but I tore all the tendons and ligaments in my ankle at the Arnold so I had to let my ankle head and recover so I could be at my best when it matters the most.
How’s your ankle doing and what’s been the key to a full recovery?
My ankle is great, I can do everything and walk in my heels with no problem. I have to admit I am not the best at taking care of myself so when I did it, I did not take any time off. I was bad. I just worked through what I could and could not do. Over time it has heeled and lots of massages on it has helped as well as stretching and strengthening it.
You’ve fared well in Florida shows before, will you be heading to the Ft. Lauderdale Pro?
No, I won’t be there this year. I have to work the Chicago Marathon for GNC that weekend.
What do you think about the announcement of the 45-second and the one-piece going away?
I think I am one of the rare girls who is disappointed that we will not have it next year. This is fitness and the 45 gives us girls a chance to show true skills and focus less on the entertainment value of a routine. For people like myself and Tracey we are not considered “routine girls” but we can execute the 45 second well and score well. The one-piece round has always been one of my strong rounds. Without the two rounds this does not separate us any differently than the amatuer competitors.
In your opinion, which Fitness Pro competitor shows the most potential to be one of the next top tier girls?
I think that Tina Durkin shows the most potential because of her physique and Nicole Duncan if she can get her dieting under control.
What advice do you give to women who want to do fitness but say they can’t do a routine?
I would ask them what skills and background they have. If they have some skills and they have a hard work ethic then I would say go for it. You can only get better if you practice and take the time to do some homework. Fitness needs girls and anyone who is willing to give it 100% can be successful if they have the patience but it takes patience and hard work.
Monica will be competing at the Team Universe event this weekend in New York. I caught up with Monica on the eve of her show. Get to know a bit more about this NPC figure competitor and what she says about early morning cardio.
Name: Monica Mark Escalante
Born/Raised in: San Diego, CA
Currently Reside in: Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Number of NPC shows and placing:
Six NPC shows
2009 NPC USAs 2nd place B Class
2008 NPC Junior Nationals 10th place B Class
2007 NPC USAs 6th place A Class
2007 NPC Team Universe Figure Nationals 5th Place A Class
2007 NPC Ironman Figure 1st place A Class and Overall Winner
2006 NPC Arizona State Champion 1st Place A Class and Overall Winner
Monica from an IRONMAN magazine shoot.
Are you still personal training people and if so what type of clients do you have?
I am currently still personal training clients as well as running the facility where we also do physical therapy, massage therapy and have a body spa. The type of clients I have range from so many different walks of life, from business professionals,stay at home moms, athletes and to the older geriatric client. That variety makes my job so interesting and enjoyable. It is always fun to help a client reach their potential of one day stepping on stage, but there is something very gratifying knowing you helped an older client accomplish everyday tasks, like for example walking up and down the stairs or getting up and down from a chair.
How did you get your start in competing?
To one day step on stage had been one of my dreams since I was eighteen years old and I first opened an “Oxygen” magazine. Monica Brant immediately became my idol and I dreamed of obtaining a physique just like hers. Not to sound corny, but my room was covered wall to wall with pictures of her to motivate me. It was then that I started weight training consistently and it became my new lifestyle. I didn’t decide to compete until 2006 when I knew I was physically and mentally ready to make the commitment. My first show was the 2006 NPC Arizona State Championship.
You came in what looked to be over-dieted last year. What went wrong last year and what did you change this year?
The phrase “smaller and tighter” kept repeating in my head. I over shot my conditioning and before I knew it I had become too lean. I lost all over my feminine curves and lines and it showed in my 10th placing. This year we have kept a close eye on my conditioning and weight. If I start to lean out too much I start to consume more fats daily and decrease my cardio. A great example would be the USAs this year in July I was eating a lot of calories all the way up to the show, (quite different than any other show I had done where fish and aspragus seem to be the special at every meal).
Do you feel it’s important to have a trainer/nutritionist for competitions?
I feel it is crucial to have a trainer/ nutrtionist for a competition even if you aren’t a rookie. Our body’s can change from show to show and what you physique you need to bring to each show also changes so a standard diet to follow each show usually wont give you the best outcome.When we look at our own bodys it is hard to have a clear image of what we really look like and to have that outside opinion is critical. With out my tranier Kim Oddo I might have brought the over condiotioned look to the USAs this year. A trainer/ nutritionist can also offer great mental support and motivation at those hard days.
How much cardio do you typically do a day?
The amount of cardio depends on how my body is responding, but usually ranges from 45 minutes to an hour and has gone up to two hours before.
photo courtesy of Monica Mark.
Do you have best results doing it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach or another time?
I do have great results from early morning cardio. I have made it part of my life for the last two years I have been competing. I feel so much better going through my day knowing that task has already been accomplished. I am now a very “early bird”. I probably get more done in the morning than most people get done all day. My first year of competing I tried to get in my cardio done at all different times of the day it then became a chore and created a bit of misery doing it.
Any favorite supplements you enjoy the most?
Supplements that I can’t leave with out would be my whey and casein protein. I enjoy Isoflex Chocolate Whey Protein by Allmax and Chocolate Casein Protein by Optimum Nutrition. I also enjoy Evogen before I lift weights and Cortisol Complex by Body by O. I use Nitro Burn PM before bed because it helps me relax and get a good nights sleep.
How important is it to have a significant other who understands and supports your competition side of life?
I think it is very important and I couldn’t imagine life any other way for me. This sport is a lifestyle and differently needs a great support system. I am very lucky to have a husband that only understands, but is my biggest fan and competes himself.. So together we can go through the highs and lows of prepping for a show. We pick each other up when one of us has a hard day and we praise each others accomplishments. I always tease him and always remind him how lucky he is to have a pre-contest gourmet chef in the kitchen.
You used to play tennis right? What did you think of the Serena Williams outburst?
I did play tennis and I still do enjoy playing a match here and there when I can. I think Serena Williams outburst was out of line. As an athlete things aren’t always going to go our way. We aren’t going to always win and in her case overreacting with profanity to the judge not only cost her the match it cost her loss of respect. As a tennis icon and having a lot of fans and admirers, some of which are children she did not exhibit sportsmanship and carried an attitude of self-righteousness. She needs to work on controlling that fire inside that drives her to be a great athlete.
You were so close to turning pro at NPC USAs. Is it easier to get motivated placing second or placing 10th at a show?
I feel they are both motivating. To be right there and almost taste the win makes you want it even more and to place 10th motivated me to work harder to get to the top.
What will be the deciding factor that puts you in the winner’s circle over your competition this weekend?
I think paying attention to every single detail will put me in the winner’s circle. Making sure my presentation is on point on stage and must importantly go out there and have fun.
Anyone you want to thank and how can people get in touch with you for personal training?
I would like to thank my parents and my husband for giving me the strongest support system and understanding my dreams. I would also like to thank Kim Oddo always for believing in me and giving me all the necessary tools to succeed.
My website is monfit.com and I am on myspace and facebook.
