Follow the action from Charleston, LIVE! Just sit tight and watch the tweets roll in.
2011 NPC JR USA – Who Will Make History?
May 19, 2011 By 1 Comment
The National Level NPC season officially kicks off this weekend in Charleston, South Carolina. The show moves back to the East Coast and earlier in the year after a trial run in Houston, Texas last year. Most people agree that this is the right place and time to start the season. This year’s show will be one for the history books as the new Women’s Physique division will be introduced. It could be a sign of the times as 48 women have registered to compete in this new division and two of them will be awarded IFBB Pro status. There are only 7 women registered for female bodybuilding at this show. Sure, there aren’t pro cards awarded at this show for the female bodybuilders but that is a huge difference in entrants. Sadly there are only 8 fitness competitors registered and one of them will be awarded IFBB Pro status. It leaves many people wondering is this the end of Fitness? We’ll discuss that at another time but it certainly could be if more women don’t enter the upcoming shows.
The Figure division continues to be the largest, followed by bikini. Despite what some people think, Figure entrants have not decreased with the inception of the Bikini division. Two pro cards will be awarded in each division. The women will dominate this show with over 240 total hardbody ladies taking the stage. There will be 102 women in Figure and 76 women are entered in the Bikini division.
This show also introduces the new Men’s Physique division, which has been popular and continues to grow. Two men will be awarded IFBB pro status on Saturday night. Bob Chic will be the emcee of the evening and Tracey Greenwood will be making sure everything runs smoothly with the expediting duties. Promoters Shannon and Tres always take great care of the competitors and you can count on a first class production once again. There is a new host hotel, so please take note of that on the schedule below.
I, Isaac, will be the official NPC Photographer for the event. If you’d like to order a CD of individual competitor photos you may do so by downloading the PDF order form here. If you give this to me before the end of the weekend you will save some coin. Money Mark Mason will be handling the video for this show and if you’re interested in a DVD of the event, you can download his form here.
There are grocery stores and restaurants nearby the venue and host hotel. If you’re looking for a gym check out Pivotal Fitness. They will be letting anyone with a current NPC card train free. Maps are available at the host hotel.
We’ll be reporting live all weekend from Charleston so be sure to follow along on twitter @hardbodynews and on our facebook fan page. See ya in Charleston!
Complete info available at: http://www.npcjuniorusa.com.
There is a shuttle from the airport to the host hotel.
Hyatt Place Charleston Airport/Convention Center
3234 West Montague Avenue
North Charleston, SC 29418, USA
Phone: +1 843 302 8600
Fax: +1 843 302 8601
VENUE:
North Charleston Coliseum
5001 Coliseum Drive
North Charleston, SC 29418
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
FRIDAY MAY 20, 2011
Location: HYATT PLACE
NPC OFFICE OPEN 5:00PM-9:00PM
ATHLETE CHECK IN / WEIGH IN 9:00AM-11:00AM or 5:00PM-7:00PM
*NOTE: Athletes are only required to check in once, either @ the morning session or the evening session. ATHLETES ARE NOT REQUIRED TO CHECK IN @ BOTH
SATURDAY MAY 21, 2011:
Location: PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
DOORS OPEN TO PUBLIC 8:00AM
PREJUDGING BEGINS 8:30AM
MEETING TIME:
FITNESS / WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING / MEN’S BODYBUILDING / MEN’S PHYSIQUE 7:30 AM
WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE 9:00 AM
FIGURE 9:30 AM
BIKINI 10:00 AM
PRE-JUDGING ORDER
FITNESS ROUTINES
WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING
MEN’S BODYBUILDING
MEN’S PHYSIQUE
WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE
FITNESS 2 PC
FIGURE
BIKINI
*THESE TIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE, FINAL TIMES WILL BE POSTED IN THE HYATT LOBBY FRIDAY NIGHT.
FINALS:
TOP 15 ALL DIVISIONS MANDATORY MEETING 5:00PM
DOORS OPEN TO PUBLIC 5:30PM
FINALS BEGIN 6:00PM
History Will Be Made at the 2011 NPC JR USA
March 17, 2011 By 2 Comments
The NPC JR USA contest has moved back to Charleston, South Carolina and will be held on May 21, 2011. This year’s contest will be one to watch as it is the first national show with the new Women’s and Men’s Physique divisions. This contest served as the first pro qualifier for the Bikini division. Shelsea Montes won the overall title that year and has since gone on to win a pro show and grace the Arnold and Olympia stages.
Two men and Two women will earn IFBB Pro status in the new physique divisions. There is only one chance to be the first in a new division. A title that no one else will ever stake claim to. Who will be crowned the first ever Women’s Physique Champion? We’ll have to wait a few more weeks but it will be here before you know it. A total of nine pro cards will be awarded in Charleston. Figure, Bikini, Women’s and Men’s physique division overall and runner-up winners will each receive Pro Cards. The overall fitness winner will be awarded her Pro Card.
Book your travel now. Southwest airlines is now flying into Charleston, which is definitely an added bonus. This is a great venue and an amazing time to be in Charleston. Visit www.npcjrusa.com for more information and if you have any questions contact Tres or Shannon and they’ll take care of you.
We’ll be there covering the action. If you plan to compete let us know!
IFBB Figure Pro Courtney West Interviews IFBB Bikini Pro Shelsea Montes
September 21, 2010 By 1 Comment
Shelsea “Six Pack” Montes was the very first IFBB Bikni pro, winning the 2009 NPC JR USA overall bikini title. She qualified for the Bikini Olympia this year in New York. Fellow IFBB Pro Courtney West caught up with Six Pack after the 2010 NPC JR USA. Shelsea trains with Fitness Olympia Champ Adela Garcia as she heads into this weekend’s big dance. Adela makes a special appearance in the video, wielding a sword.
Watch Shelsea compete in the first ever Bikini Olympia this Friday in Las Vegas.
4x Fitness Champ Adela Garcia Flex’n in Texas
September 21, 2010 By 1 Comment
The overall NPC JR USA men’s bodybuilding champ was absent from the NPC NEWS photo shoot so 4x Fitness Olympia Champion Adela Garcia stood in. Check out this behind-the-scenes video of Adela getting her flex on.
2010 NPC JR USA Photos
September 2, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Check out the photographic coverage from the NPC JR USA on Bodybuilding.com. Those of you looking to purchase photos will find those available next week. Congrats to all the winners and those of you who accomplished your goals.
2010 NPC Jr. USA Figure Results
August 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Overall
Solevi Hernandez
Class A
1. Jordan Meyer
2. Aketa Thomas
3. Alicia Bell
4. Alicia Gifford
5. Christine Anderson
6. Anne Strauch
7. Krissy Richard
8. Kawana McCough
9. Betzabe Arnaiz
10. Alicia Meza
11. Jo Burleson
12. Cheri Nguyen
Class B
1. Solevi Hernandez**
2. Tatiana Koshman
3. Cindy Martinez
4. Megan Wyble
5. Leslie Hasselbach
6. Monique Anreson
7. Sandi Gravatt
Class C
1. Rose Ronquillo
2. Carla Sizemore
3. Tara Hollingsworth
4. Kalani Barber
5. Allison Frahn
6. Adriana Sanchez
7. Abby Busby
8. Tiffany Ryan
9. Kisha Nicole Wilson
10. Lauren Stogner
11. Bonnie Bundy
Class D
1. Lacy Taylor
2. Tennille Ray
3. Christina Larson
4. Christine Mouser
5. Ginger Haas
6. Jessica Bourcier
7. Jennifer Winters
8. Joni Neilson
9. Stephanie Flores
10. Elena Erickson
11. Tamara Remmers
12. Desha Hout
Class E
1. Kimberly Sheppard**
2. Christy Hill
3. Summer Rogers
4. Kimberly Renee
5. Elizabeth Pollison
6. Jessica Vetter
Class F
1. Sara Polston
2. Amy Palmquest
3. Michelle Beck
4. Shonte Turner
5. Stephanie Toomy
6. Anissa Payne
7. Wanda Gil
**New IFBB Pros
2010 NPC Jr. USA Bikini Results
August 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Overall
Vanessa Prebyl
Class A
1. Alexis Weiner
2. Tara Granberry
3. Elena White
4. Kierstin Flores
Class B
1. Priscilla Barrera
2. Jennifer Chapman
3. Jennifer Pimental
4. Mercedes Perez
5. Gidget Migliaccio
6. Ella DeLallo
7. Mandie Taketa
8. Stephanie Jones
Class C
1. Vanessa Prebyl**
2. Charish Hammond
3. Cheryl Foster
4. Stacy Miller
5. Venus Ramos
6. Ashley Rich
Class D
1. Christy Merritt**
2. Ashley Gay
3. Tawna Eubanks
4. Shauna Hudrall
5. Heather Burman
6. Stacey Naito
7. Judy Replogle
8. Shauna Smith
9. Kara Esades
10. Audrina Torres
11. Shannon Rockweiler
12. Jennifer Childs
13. Sarah Brooks
14. Amy Campbell
15. Sherry Hasty
16. Dixie Reynolds
16. Karin Traber
16. Jessica Esposito
Class E
1. Michelle Maxwell
2. Crystal King
3. Michelle Hanson
4. Keridon Davis
5. Shannon Griffee
6. Hillary Jones
7. Brittney Touchton
8. Emily Carey
9. Christy Johns
10. Janaee Adams
Class F
1. Jennifer Rankin
2. Crystal Mathews
3. Kendra Warren
4. Tiffany Gilley
5. Stephanie Bentley
6. Tianna Flores
7. Monica Perez
** Qualified for IFBB Pro Status
2010 NPC Jr. USA Fitness / Women’s BB Results
August 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Fitness Results
Overall
Rachel Johnson**
Short
1. Babette Mulford
2. Skye Fisher
Medium
1. Rachel Johnson
2. Michelle Gales
3. Viko Newman
Tall
1. Lena Mishin
2. Alissa Carpio
3. Dawnice Beckley
Women’s Bodybuilding Results
Overall
Olivia Terry
Heavyweight
1. Olivia Terry
Light Heavyweight
1. Emanuela Silvagni
2. Dominique Durand
3. Lisa Guameiri
4. LaQuita Sanders
Middleweight
1. Marie Samperio
2. Martha Ibarra
Lightweight
1. Brenda Boyd
2. Emily Berryman
**Qualified for IFBB PRO STATUS
Live Coverage from the NPC JR USA
August 27, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Follow all the action from the 2010 NPC Jr USA. The competitors are checking in today and the prejudging will kick off tomorrow morning. The numbers for the female bodybuilders and the fitness competitors are disappointing. There’s a pro card up for grabs in the Fitness division and only 11 8 women TOTAL are slated to compete. Only 11 female bodybuilders total are schedule to compete. The bikini and figure will dominate the show and I look for a couple very competitive new pros to leave Houston.
I’ll do the best I can to keep ya updated & give you an inside look behind-the-scenes. I’ll be tweeting under BBcomContests and Hardbodynews through out the weekend. If you’re not on Twitter, you can stay on this page and refresh for the live call-outs and thoughts as they happen today.
Notice To All 2010 NPC JR USA Championships Competitors
August 25, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Those of you competing in the 2010 NPC JR USA show this weekend, take note of the following announcement.
The Following Athlete’s Are Required To Participate In The NPC NEWS Photo Shoot With J.M. Manion on Sunday, August 29 At The Residence Inn by Marriott Houston Sugar Land Hotel Swimming Pool 9 a.m. To Approximately 12 Noon:
• MEN’S OVERALL WINNER
• WOMEN’S OVERALL WINNER
• THE OVERALL FITNESS WINNER THAT QUALIFIED FOR THE IFBB
• THE 2 FIGURE HEIGHT CLASS WINNERS THAT QUALIFIED FOR THE IFBB
• THE 2 BIKINI HEIGHT CLASS WINNERS THAT QUALIFIED FOR THE IFBB- Only The 5 Overall Winners Are To Bring Their Overall Trophies.
- The Men’s & Women’s Overall Winners Are To Bring Their Posing Suit & Posing Oil.
- The Bikini, Figure & Fitness Class Winners That Qualified For The IFBB Are To Bring Their 2-Piece Competition Suits Along With At Least 1 Other 2-Piece Bikini.Tentative Schedule As Follows:
9 a.m. – Photograph For The NPC News Featuring The 5 Overall Winners Only (Men’s & Women’s Bodybuilding; Bikini, Fitness & Figure)
Immediately Following Will Be Individual Photos Of The Men’s & Women’s Bodybuilding & Fitness Overall Winners10:00 a.m. – Arrival Of Other Bikini & Figure Class Winners That Qualified For The IFBB For Group Photos
* All Women Please Arrive With Hair & Make-up Done*
All Competitors Please Plan Accordingly With Your Travel Plans.
2010 NPC JR USA Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure & Bikini Championships
August 23, 2010 By 2 Comments
This weekend hundreds of hardbodies will head to Houston, Texas for the 2010 NPC Jr USA. This event was traditionally held in the Spring and for the last few years took place in Charleston, South Carolina. The move to Houston was intended to help centralize the location and provide easier access for competitors across the US. Thus far it looks like the move is paying off. Promoters, Tres Bennett and Lee Thompson have assembled a terrific crew and are sure to put on a first class event.
I’ll be there photographing the event as “the official NPC photographer”. If you’re competing and would like to order photos email me at info @ liftstudios.com for an order form. I’ll also be covering the event here and on twitter via @BBcomcontests. Use the hashtag #JRUSA for this event if you’re tweeting.
The overall Fitness winner and the top two in the overall Figure and Bikini comparisons will earn IFBB Pro status. This is one of last chance for competitors to move on to the pro ranks. Tickets for the night show are nearly sold out so order yours before it’s too late. Get complete details at www.npcjrusa.com.
Schedule of Events:
Friday, August 27, 2010
Stafford Convention Center – 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, TX 77477
9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Weigh-in / Check-in (Men): Meeting Room TBA
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Weigh-in / Check-in (All Women): Meeting Room TBA
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Final Weigh-in / Check-in (Men & Women): Mtg. Rm. TBASaturday, August 28, 2010
Stafford Convention Center – 10505 Cash Road, Stafford, TX 774777:00 a.m. – Mandatory Meeting (Women’s Fitness)
7:30 a.m. – Mandatory Meeting (Women’s Bodybuilding)
8:00 a.m. – Mandatory Meeting (Men’s Bodybuilding)
9:00 a.m. – Mandatory Meeting (Women’s Figure / Bikini)
9:00 a.m. – Prejudging Begins!*Meeting times subject to change depending on number of athletes, official meeting times will be given at weigh-in/check-ins.*
6:00 p.m. – Top 15 Men/Women/Fitness/Figure/Bikini Competitors Mandatory Meeting
6:30 p.m. – Doors open to the public
7:00 p.m. – Finals – All
See ya in Houston!
NPC JR USA Moves to Houston!
October 30, 2009 By 10 Comments
I just spoke with NPC Texas Chairman, Lee Thompson and he informed me that the 2010 NPC JR USA will be moving to Houston (Stafford), Texas. Houston will serve as the host city for this show in the years to come. It’s a welcome move, in my opinion, as Charleston was a pain to get in and out of. The Charleston venue was great, the promoter did a tremendous job but the logistics of getting to Charleston were expensive and offered few direct flights. The move will also make this a more centralized show in the States. Typically, the NPC JR USA was the first national NPC show and dominated by East Coast competitors. The NPC JR USA will move the event closer to NPC Nationals and will no longer be the first national NPC show.
The 2010 NPC JR USA will take place on August 28, 2010 in Houston (Stafford), Texas. Lee tells me the host hotel will have kitchenettes for all the competitors and is in a great location. The 2010 contest will be held at the Stafford Centre.
We will be updating the NPC JR USA web site in the days ahead. Stay tuned for more information but be sure to mark your calendar and plan your prep accordingly.
NPC JR USA Recap on The Fizeek Show
June 1, 2009 By 1 Comment
Thanks to the hosts of The Fizeek Show, Terry Gooldad and Anna Tigre for inviting me on their radio show. I joined the duo to chat about the NPC JR USA and share my thoughts on the contest. Later in the show new IFBB Fitness Pro, Sandi Stuart joins them to discuss her overall win. Check it out on iTunes or head over to Bodysport.com to listen.
New Pros in Charleston
May 28, 2009 By 7 Comments
Congratulations to the five new pros that came out of Charleston, SC last weekend. Andrea Watson continued on her win streak and went four for four in each of her NPC figure contests. Pretty impressive for this being her first year on the competition scene and now she’s a pro. Yes, she really is that good and will be another shorty that can hang tall on the next level. The second figure pro card went to Gennifer Strobo. Gennifer steadily moved her way up in placings last year and found her way into the winner’s circle last Saturday. Great delts and a tiny waist helped her win a pro card. She’ll need to fill out and put on a little bit of size in order to be competitive in the pro ranks but hey that means eating. Gennifer is looking to make her debut in the Ft. Lauderdale Classic this fall. Team Bombshell Fitness has served notice on the female competitive front – these ladies don’t mess around when it comes to whoop’n some ass on stage. Both Andrea and Gennifer train with the husband/wife duo of Shannon Dey and Rob Rosseti, the masterminds behind Bombshell Fitness.
The overall winners from the NPC JR USA.
The Fitness pro card went to the very deserving Sandi Stuart. Sandi has been battling in the NPC ranks for years coming up just short a number of times. She had a solid routine, her physique was in condition and she came prepared. After the show Sandi had an overwhelming sense of relief and understandably so.
The two bikini pro cards went to Shelsea Montes and Stacey Oster. Shelsea’s a pint size little dynamo from Cedar Park, Texas. She’s was turning heads at the check-in and has the upbeat, sassy energy about her everywhere she goes. Shelsea brought that energy to the stage and won the judges and the crowd over. She’s a testament to what posing and presentation in the bikini division can do for you. It was clear she’d win her class but not the overall. Her presentation, in my opinion, is what helped her secure the first ever Bikini Pro card. She told me after the show that she works out, trains regularly and follows a healthy nutrition plan. The second pro card went to Stacey Oster of Greely, Colorado. Like Shelsea it was clear from the comparisons that Stacey was the stand out in her class. She looked to have softened up a bit from her Contra Costa win and also wore a different swimsuit. It wasn’t intential that she sported a different suit though. No, Stacey was a bit stressed out heading into this competition. She tells me her competition suit along with a number of bikinis, all her makeup, heels and other outfits had been lost while traveling. The airline lost her luggage and it’s still mysteriously missing to this day. Stacey definitely has a fitness model type of physique which is what I think the division should be described as. The name won’t change, it’s the Bikini Division, however when describing it to others I say think of a fitness model. Stacey is borderline “too muscular” for bikini in some people’s opinion. If she had showed up looking like she did when I saw her at the Denver Dream tryouts, I would agree she would be too muscular however that wasn’t the package presented on stage in Charleston.
The overall winners in Charleston, South Carolina.
NPC Bikini Thoughts & Comparisons
May 27, 2009 By 50 Comments
Please Note: I’m not speaking on behalf of the NPC and I am not an official of the NPC, these are simply my observations on what I’ve seen from a few shows thus far.
I visit a number of message boards once or twice a day and post mainly on the popular female message board Siouxcountry.com. It never ceases to amaze me, no matter what happens at any given show someone is crying the blues. Fitness, Figure, Bodybuilding and now Bikini are subjective competitions. The physique I prefer may be different than the person next to me, it’s the nature of the beast. If you enter a show remember this and don’t go on message boards complaining. Bitching and moaning and being overly vocal about your thoughts as a competitor does nothing for you. Ever notice how the winners are never online complaining? It cracks me up to read people (mainly women) complaining about the new bikini contest and being confused about the look. It’s pretty clear there is a distinction between the Figure & Bikini, at least to me. Is it perfected yet? No. It will take some time but the overall comparisons between Figure and Bikini speak to this.
NPC JR USA Bikini Class Winners.
NPC JR USA Figure Class Winners.
As you can see the Figure women have more muscle and the most noticable difference are the capped delts. The bikini women are fit, toned, athletic and carry far less muscle than the Figure women. I wouldn’t say the Bikini women have no muscle, they do but it’s a softer, toned look. A tan definitely helps and in my opinion is necessary for a bikini competitor. You’re under hot bright stage lights if you’re not tan your muscle tone will get washed out. The two biggest things that don’t translate in photos (and are crucial to the bikini division) are presentation and suit selection. Bikini competitors who wear a competition suit like they would in Fitness/Figure look out of place. A cute, well fitted bikini off the store rack or custom made bikini looks 100x better than a regular Fitness/Figure competition suit. If the suit is cut right and flattering to your body it makes a world of difference. Presentation can definitely make or break a competitor. The women who place higher in Bikini can…
1) Walk in heels with confidence and not stumble.
If you aren’t used to walking in heels and lack the ability to “work it” then you should practice. It shows when you aren’t confident on stage. You look like a deer caught in the headlights. Remember whatever you’re thinking shows on stage. If you’re nervous and scared you display it on stage and it’s usually unintentional.
2) Have some sass.
Don’t go out there and frown, scowl or be frumpy. Work it. You’re in shape, you’ve worked hard, paid your entry fee so go out there and have fun. Don’t over due it and look trashy but hit a few poses.
3) Act as if it’s a photo shoot.
Over exaggerate by popping one hip to the side. From the back pop your butt out a little bit. Every booty has a crease so when you pop it out just a tiny bit you eliminate that and it looks better. Catch the judges attention when you present your physique.
Those are the three biggest things that stand out to me when it comes to presentation in bikini. You’re not on stage for long so don’t rush your presentation but also don’t be out there for an uncomfortably long time. If you hit a front, back and then front again in 5 seconds you 1) won’t capture the judges attention and 2) will end up with no photos and be pissed after the fact.
The thing to remember is the judges can only judge what is on the stage at that given day. The bikini division is new and the word needs to get out to women beyond the core audience already involved. There weren’t a ton of bikini competitors in the first pro qualifier however the class winners looked good. There were one or two divisions where the judges didn’t have much to compare so they had to reward what they felt was the best of the group.
Bikini Class winners from the back.
Figure Class winners from the back.
Again, let me stress these are simply MY opinions and observations and not those of the NPC. The bikini division is here to stay and I encourage everyone in the industry to stop complaining and do your part to help make it great. Competitors, all you can do is come into a show at your best.
Follow the Action
May 23, 2009 By 1 Comment
The NPC JR USA prejudging begins in one hour. Follow along with the action on hardbodynews twitter account. If you don’t know what the hell twitter is or care to know, just watch the box on the right hand column to see updates. You may have to hit refresh to get the latest news but it will appear in the twitter box on the right.
Good luck everyone! If you’re at the show come up and say hello. A number of people have and I appreciate the feedback and meeting the hardbody peeps.
Future Fitness Pro
May 23, 2009 By 1 Comment
Tonight one hard working hardbody will leave Charleston and the ranks of the NPC behind. Who will it be? We’ll have to wait and see but a couple early favorites, at least on paper have emerged.
Cinzia Clapp at the 2009 Emerald Cup.
Cinzia Clapp took the overall honors at the Emerald Cup Fitness last month and she was fifth at the 2008 Team Universe. Victoria Larvie took fourth at the ’08 Team Universe and continues to improve. She’s one of the youngest competitors on the stage but it certainly doesn’t hold her back when it comes to her routines. If Sandi Stuart comes in with the conditioning is capable of achieving watch out for her. She’s been close a number of times but left with no cigar. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see her smoke’n the competition today. Sandi has a new routine that will involve some type of motorized device. We’ll see how she rolls today. Colorado girl, Lauren Niehaus will look to flatten the wheels of Stuart as she competes against her in the same fitness class.
Follow along on the right hand side in our Twitter box or follow us to stay updated.
Bikini Beware
May 22, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Keep your eye out for what the bikini division brings out this weekend. The West Coast will have the NPC California show where I’m told to watch out for Jennifer Celeste. Jennifer was the runner-up in the FLEX bikini contest two years ago and she can be seen working the Champion Nutrition booth. She’s definitely an attractive lass with some sass. Don’t be surprised if she walks away the champ tomorrow in Culver City. Still no official word on what Ron “Yogi” Avidan said to Jennifer back at the IRONMAN PRO. Check out the photo I’m referring to.
Two ladies to keep an eye on this weekend in Charleston are Jessica Lawrence and Jaime Baird. You’ve seen the both here on hardbody in the past couple weeks. They both have overall bikini titles under their belts. I caught up with the J’s for a shoot and both look awesome.
Jaime Baird has put the pink dumbbells down & is ready.
Jessica Lawrence is ready to rock in Charleston.
Report From Charleston
May 22, 2009 By 8 Comments
I know you’re all anxiously awaiting my crazy stories from Charleston thus far, or maybe not. Either way, it’s been quite the adventure. I took a red-eye flight of Denver and lucky me I had the middle seat that didn’t recline (thanks Shannon). The dude next to me snored and the children behind me cried the entire time. SWEET! My second flight from Atlanta to Charleston was hilarious. I got to my seat and this character who looked like Tracey Morgan was sitting with his hands inside his shirt. It was cold on the plane so it wasn’t that weird, at least not at that point. Once we took off the guy proceeded to get inside his shirt for the duration of the flight. He was either wanted by the authorities or taking the swine flu precautions up a notch. It was amusing either way.
Swine Flu precautions or wanted man?
I arrived in Charleston with no problems and the city looked cool with all the surrounding water.
A look at Charleston, SC.
I proceed to get my rental car and Jo seemed to be in slow motion. Jo was the Avis/Budget worker. She couldn’t find my reservation. Jo talked in her souther drawl and I’m thinking great a slow motion redneck idiot, just what I need. Turns out I am the idiot as I booked my reservation for the JR Nationals dates. After Jo tried to get me in a convertible (it was pouring rain and not much need for that) I was on my way to the hotel.
Jo trying to find my reservation.
I was able to check in early which was sweet. Sweet until I started unpacking and went into the bedroom to see a dirty ass room that hadn’t been cleaned yet. Not so sweet. The manager apologized and moved me to a clean room, which was nice. After a little nap I hit Walmart for some snacky snacks and water. I located a Buffalo Wild Wings which will be showing the UFC event on Saturday night. That’s where my happy ass will be after the show.
I caught up with Andrea Watson and Jaime Baird for a photo shoot. Both Bombshell Fitness girls look great and should be contenders in this show. You’ll recall both women took home overall titles in Pittsburgh (Andrea – Figure, Jaime – Bikini). We got some great shots and both did well modeling.
After watching the Nuggets win (suck it Lakers) I crashed. Good night’s rest and then it was time for the morning check-in. So far 1/2 the competitors have checked in. I saw stand out from last year, Teri Turner in attendance and she looks great. There are a number of women who stand out in the crowd. The overall Contra Costa Bikini winner, Stacey Oster is competing and rocked the pajamas at check-in. You’ll recall Stacey stood out at the Denver Dream tryouts with not only her physique but also her ability to whiz the football. Orlando’s overall bikini winner, Mariza Prince is competing and one tall drink of water. There aren’t many bikini competitors in each class but there are a few women that jump out right away.
There is a second check-in this evening and then the action starts tomorrow bright and early. It will be a very good show to kick the year off. Stay tuned for more updates and details throughout the weekend.
NPC JR USA Schedule of Events
May 22, 2009 By Leave a Comment
There will be over two hundred competitors participating in the NPC JR USA and the action gets under way this morning. Here’s a schedule of events for today. One more day to go until we see FIVE new IFBB females.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Embassy Suites Convention Center
9 a.m. – 7 p.m. NPC Promoters Office: Meeting Room 2
9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Weigh-in / Check-in (Men): Meeting Room 3
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Weigh-in / Check-in (All Women): Meeting Room 3
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Final Weigh-in / Check-in (Men & Women): Mtg. Rm. 3
Check back for more info throughout the day and follow us on Twitter for the latest news as it happens.
Craziness on The Way To Carolina
May 21, 2009 By 5 Comments
My trip to South Carolina started at 1:15 on a red eye flight to Charleston. It’s been quite the adventure along the way and I’ll write all about it this evening. Here’s a little taste of my trip so far…
Taking the swine flu precaution to a new level.
I’m off to a photo shoot with the three-peat mini-wheat Andrea Watson. Check back for more info and follow the news on twitter.com/hardbodynews.
NPC JR USA Video and Photography
May 20, 2009 By Leave a Comment
If you’re competing in the NPC JR USA or know some one who is check out the following information on purchasing video and photographs.
Official Videographer – Mark Mason
Mark will be video taping the entire competition and will have DVDs available for purchase on his web site.
http://www.markmasonmedia.com
Official NPC Photographer – Isaac Hinds
Order forms are available here. (pdf) Prints will also be available after the show for purchase at photos.liftstudios.com
Bodybuilding.com, FLEXonline.com and here on hardbody.com we’ll keep you updated with photos, news and all the action as it happens this weekend. For more information on the first National NPC show of the year, visit: http://npcjrusa.com
Roadtripp’n Tweeter
May 20, 2009 By Leave a Comment
Andrea Watson is keeping everyone updated on what’s shaken in her world as she heads into this weekend’s NPC JR USA. Here’s the latest tweet from her, which I’m sure every dieter out there can appreciate.
That’s a ton of asparagus. What’s the over/under odds on how many times Andrea has to stop and pee on her road trip to Charleston? You can follow Andrea here and be sure to follow all the action in Charleston via our twitter feed.
Five New Pros Crowned This Week
May 18, 2009 By 1 Comment
This weekend in Charleston, South Carolina five females will leave the NPC ranks and join the elite group in the IFBB. Two Figure, Two Bikini and One Fitness competitor will qualify for IFBB Pro status at the first National NPC show of the year, the 2009 NPC JR USA. Promoter Tres Bennett shared there will be between 200 & 250 total competitors (including the men). As we’ve come to expect, the Figure competition will be the largest of the weekend with over 100 females trying to nab one of the two pro cards. This show typically has the most competitors from East of the Mississippi. It’s a great venue with the host hotel connecting to the venue and a short ride from the airport. IFBB pro Tracey Greenwood will be the head expediter for this event and her crew will be the ones running the action backstage.
As of earlier this month the breakdown was:
15-20 Women’s Bodybuilders
15-20 Fitness Competitors
50-60 Bikini Competitors
100+ Figure Competitors
Order your tickets early via Ticketmaster:
• Prejudging Tickets
• Finals Tickets
Things kick off Friday with the check-in. Here is the schedule of events:
Friday, May 22, 2009
Embassy Suites Convention Center
9 a.m. – 10 a.m. Weigh-in / Check-in (Men): Meeting Room 3
10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Weigh-in / Check-in (All Women): Meeting Room 3
5 p.m. – 7 p.m. Final Weigh-in / Check-in (Men & Women): Mtg. Rm. 3
Follow all the action via our twitter account this week from Charleston. We’ll also be providing updates from the California Pro via twitter as well.
Hardbody Profile: Andrea Watson Fast-Track To Success
May 14, 2009 By 8 Comments
Andrea Watson looks to make it four in a row.
Andrea Watson is one of the NPC’s rising stars and on the fast-track to the IFBB pro ranks. She’s entered three shows and won not only her class but also the overall title in each of them. Andrea is heading to the NPC JR USA next weekend looking to make it four in a row and leave a pro. I caught up with Andrea days out from her the show and she shared a bit more about herself.
Currently Reside: Pensacola, FL
Occupation: Regulatory Analyst for Gulf Power Company (Subsidiary of Southern Company)
What made you decide to compete in Figure? I was always active growing up from cheering, running track, and lifting weights and thought about doing some fitness/figure modeling. I would always buy Oxygen Magazine, Muscle & Fitness Hers, Fitness Rx (just to name a few) just to look at all the amazing physique’s and competition photos. Last September I overheard someone talking about competing and I decided to buckle down and start training.
Andrea all smiles and getting ready to grub.
Had you been to a competition before your first show? Yes, I attended the Panhandle Showdown in 2007 and 2008.
What’s your family think of it? My husband Brian is the one who always said that he thought I should compete and he’s been nothing but supportive (I think he enjoys it more than me!). He and my sister are my number one fans. At first my mom was against it until my family and my went to my first show and then realized that I was not a body builder but a “figure” competitor. Now they’re totally supportive.
What’s been the biggest learning experience for you thus far? I have learned that with hard work, dedication, and belief in yourself that anything is possible. I’ve learned who my true friends are – the ones who support me 110% and are happy that I am happy and successful. Also, I have learned that you must balance faith, family, work and training and put them all in perspective….in that order.
What supplements and food help get you through the dieting? Tight Curves protein shakes are what I look forward to the whole day. I drink one right before I go to bed. They are so delicious I feel like I am cheating! Also, as strict as our pre-contest diets can be, I savor every moment of the two prunes and quarter of an apple I get with my breakfast!!! I know it sounds crazy. Also, I am allowed one cheat meal a week and it’s usually some kind of carb like pizza, lasagna, or cheeseburger… if I was allowed I would eat all three at one sitting…and a piece of chocolate or two…or three…
Any advice for others who are thinking about competing? You MUST join IFBB Pro Shannon Dey’s Team Bombshell! They give you all the tools you need: diet, cardio, exercise plans, suit selection guidance, hair and make-up, and posing advice. Also, they offer camps for figure/fitness/bikini competitors where they go over everything with you and kick your butt with boot camp and training sessions in-between! The team is the best thing that has happened to me as a figure competitor. I have made life long friends with the ladies on Team Bombshell. They are part of my family now.
Do you still have frozen eggplant parmesan in your freezer? Lol! Yes, I ordered the eggplant parmesan for my cheat meal after the Pittsburgh Championships and I couldn’t finish it all so I took it back to Pensacola with me! So, yes it’s waiting for me in the freezer for my next cheat meal.
How did you get the trophy that was bigger than you home? Funny thing – Well I knew it was too big to get it on the plane (and I was scared they would charge me for another seat) so my sister Jaynie (who was on a later flight and who had time) had to use a wrench and disassemble it and put it in her carry-on! Hopefully she will bring it to Jr. USA’s in South Carolina so I can be re-united with it.
All the best in your next show and we’ll see you in Charleston. Thanks!
Andrea backstage after her second A Class win.
Teri Turner & Catherine Holland Two Week Out Preview Photos
May 12, 2009 By 1 Comment
Catherine Holland posted a few photos of her killer work out with super trainer Mike Davies on her blog. She also shared a preview of what she’s looking like as she heads into next weekend’s IFBB California Pro. Cat also gives everyone a sneak peak at one of the top NPC Figure competitors, Teri Turner. Teri narrowly missed her pro card a few times last year but has her sights set on finishing business at the NPC JR USA next week. Check back next week to see how these two do at their shows.
Catherine and Teri practice their posing.
Teri and Cat getting in a workout in Ohio.
Hawt Hardbody – Ashlynn Evans
April 30, 2009 By 3 Comments
Last year’s overall NPC JR USA fitness winner Ashlynn Evans is today’s photo of the day. She has yet to make her pro debut but she will be on hand in Charleston doing hair and makeup for this year’s JR USA.
Ashlynn has done the makeup for American Pie star Shannon Elizabeth, fashion shoots as well as fitness and figure comeptitors. If you’re heading to Charleston and in need of hair/makeup email Ashlynn and tell her Hardbody sent ya.
Ashlynn Evans heat’n it up in Charleston.
Mark Your Calendars NPC JR USA – May 23rd
March 25, 2009 By Leave a Comment
The NPC JR USA will return to Charleston, South Carolina once again on May 23rd. There has been a little bit of confusion surrounding the date. The original date was May 9th. Please note that the date is May 23rd. This will be the first National NPC Bikini contest of the year. For more information visit: www.npcjrusa.com
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