IFBB Orlando Pro

2011 IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Pro Figure Results

April 30, 2011 By Isaac Hinds 1 Comment

Cheryl Brown edged out Candice Keen by one point en route to her first win of the year. Cheryl was near her all-time best and despite having a case of the shakes she came out victorious. Candice Keene looked her best and no one would have argued with her winning the show. If she looks like this every time she competes, she’ll be a threat for a top spot every time. Genn Strobo took home the third and final qualifying spot for the 2011 Olympia with her third place finish.

2011 IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Pro Figure Results:
1. Cheryl Brown**
2. Candice Keene**
3. Gennifer Strobo**
4. Kristen Nagrani
5. Candice John
6. Petra Mertl
7. Ann Titone
8. Amy Vetter
9. Holly Beck
10. Alana Hernandez
11. Kat Ramirez
12. Kaylen McKenzie
13. Lauren DeNapoli
14. CeaAnna Kerr
15. Melissa Fredrick
16. Elivimar Sanchez
17. Stephanie Bambrough
17. Nicole Carter
17. Viviana Cassarubia
17. Ginette Delhaes
17. Sandi Stuart

** Qualify for 2011 Figure Olympia

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB Orlando Pro

IFBB Europa Orlando – Full Bikini Results

April 30, 2011 By Isaac Hinds 2 Comments

Nathalia Melo successfully defended her Bikini crown Saturday afternoon in Orlando. Melo made her pro debut last year at this show and has skyrocketed to the top of the bikini division over the last year.

She’s had a couple bumps in the road and it looked like she may have hit one here but her stage presence and sexy appeal prevailed once again. Nathalia edged out Jaime Baird by three points en route to her second Europa Show of Champions title. Baird was at her all-time best and had she got the win I don’t think many would have disagreed. Vanessa Campbell edged out a much improved Dayna Maletone for the the third and final qualifying Olympia spot. If Maletone had a little better stage presence during prejudging she would have gotten the nod. Look for her to be in the Olympia before the year is out.

IFBB PRO BIKINI – EUROPA SHOW OF CHAMPIONS ORLANDO
1. Nathalia Melo**
2. Jaime Baird**
3. Vanessa Campbell**
4. Dayna Maleton
5. Kristy Robbins
6. Kira Rivera
7. Khanh Nguyen
8. Samantha Morris
9. Trina Goosby

** Qualify for the 2011 Bikini Olympia

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB Orlando Pro

LIVE IFBB Europa Show of Champions Coverage

April 29, 2011 By Isaac Hinds 1 Comment

The IFBB Europa Show of Champions kicks off today and we’re there covering all the action. The expo opens at 2pm EST and the pros will take the stage at 3pm EST. Follow along on twitter @BBcomContests and @Hardbodynews for callouts, photos and more. Photographic coverage will be on FLEXonline.com and Bodybuilding.com throughout the weekend. If you don’t have a twitter account follow long on this page and watch the tweetage live.

Photos from the IFBB Pro check-in available here.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Hardbody Interview with IFBB Figure Pro Gen Strobo

April 28, 2011 By Isaac Hinds 3 Comments

Gen Strobo is hitting the IFBB Figure stage for the first time this weekend at the Europa Show of Champions in Orlando. I caught up with the Florida Figure momma on the heels of the show. Check out what she’s been up to and what’s behind the Monkey Butt.

Currently live in: Pensacola, FL

Born in: Ft. Myers, FL

Nickname: HMmm… My family calls me Genni; Team Bombshell, Gen; A few names I wont mention call me: Hoo-dee-lee-hoo and Monkey Butt.

Haha well THAT certainly sounds interesting. I’m sure there’s some entertaining story behind those.

Your first time back on stage this year. How do you feel compared to previous shows? I feel much more prepared for this show than I did for Kentucky and Ft. Lauderdale. For those shows I’d just come off of the Olympia and hadn’t really had enough time in between them.

When was your last show? Last show was Kentucky Muscle in November, 2010

You’re one of the taller competitors and had the challenge of adding muscle/size. How have you been able to do that? That challenge is with me on an everyday basis. We have spent the past couple of years trying to figure out what will work best for my body type such as making tons of changes to my diet and definitely the way I train.

What type of foods do you eat to help you put on some muscle? I have spent a lot of time over the past year eating lots of red meat, salmon and white potatoes. Keeping my diet higher in fats and in carbs seems to be helping me out.

Did you have change your training up since turning pro? Over the past year we have changed my training to where I train much differently than I’ve ever done. Most weeks I stay in the low 8-10 rep range and try to challenge myself on the weight. I don’t do much supersetting anymore.

You have how many children? 2 daughters soon to be 13 and 16.

How do you balance mommy duties and competing? It is definitely a challenge to be a mom in the first place, but then finding time in between Cross country meets, after school programs and the tons of homework they have to train is even harder. Time management and late nights are all part of balancing my life. I try to dedicate a day to them no matter what I have going on and they pick what we do. They are both some of my biggest fans, and I can tell you they look forward to my cheat meal. They love to watch mom pig out!

What advice do you have for other mommas out there who are thinking about competing but not sure? I can tell you that it won’t be easy. However, nothing worth doing right is. But by doing for yourself and taking care of you first, it allows you to better take care of your family. Plus, it does give the children of today a better awareness to being active and maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle.

You have an interesting business. Tell peeps about that and how you go into that. I own G-Force Fitness and Nutrition. We specialize in pre-packaged healthy meals and meal plans and also some great tasting Meal Replacement Bars!!!!

Where can people get these healthy meals you speak of? Well it’s only local. GForcenutrition2Go.com.

Who came up with the food on your menu? I came up with all the recipes. Nutrition is my passion and I have my nutrition specialist certification. Currently I am the owner and chef and I love it. Lots of work but I enjoy every minute of it.

So will you be bringing the press pit samples to try out in Orlando? Ha no samples there.. I wish, maybe in a few months we’ll start to ship the bars and meals.

I guess we’ll be stuck starving. Thanks. Just kidding.

How important is it to have supportive people around you when competing and in life in general? If you surround yourself with positive people you become a more positive person all together. In this sport it is a MUST to have people around you that support you 100%. Push you through those workouts, encourage you to stay on your diet, etc. Knowing you have someone in your corner, makes stepping into the “ring” that much easier.

If someone is struggling with negative people/influences in their life, what advice would you share in making a change? Change is never easy for anyone. But if there is someone around you that is bringing you down with regards to the sport or hindering your personal growth then you need to step back and rethink their place in your world. Those who truly want the best for you will support you in all you do.

How has your prep been different for this show or has it been different? Much different. First, everyone knows I have a metabolism faster than a speeding bullet. I have had to learn even more that I have to listen to my body and feed it when needed. When I feel hungry even if it’s not time for my next meal, I EAT. I used to think that I wasn’t working as hard as some girls I know because they were being restricted with food and having to do large amounts of cardio. But we all have our problems and our way of getting ourself to the stage. Mine just involves me making sure I eat every calorie I need and keeping my cardio to a minimum. Doing this and lifting like a bodybuilder is helping me get my physique to a much fuller place that I’ve needed to be.

Any supplements that are on your “must have” list? I love the new ON Amino Energy (grape flavor baby). It gives me that kick I need to get my day going and since I go to the gym immediately after dropping my kids off at school it gives me that kick in the “monkey butt” I need to lift heavy and push myself.

What the key to getting rid of monkey butt? Hmmm… well I’m not sure if there’s a sure fire cure for this awful disease. But some painful scrubbing and a little baby oil seems to dull the effects. (I’m never gonna live this down am I?)

No. I guess we should mention that “Monkey Butt” arrived at the NPC Jr. USAs and can best be described as what is left behind from bikini bite/suit glue after a show. It’s not one of the more glamorous sides of competing.

What’s a talent people may not know you possess? Well, I think I’ve said before that I was a nationally ranked fencer for many years in my teens. But, challenge me to a burping contest and I’m sure to beat ya!

WHAT? Fencing. I had no idea, cool! I’ll take your word for it on the belching. ha. Aight, rapid fire – first thing that comes to mind. BOOM. Say it.

Gallon Jug – Don’t leave home without it

Fanny Pack – Sexy, not!

Headbands – Olivia Newton John

Lady Gaga – Meat dress

Smelly dudes – Ewwww

Hairy backs – Get a Man-groomer

Number of gym shoes own - 5

Number of times I visit the gym a day – 1 to workout and then numerous times to all the gyms in town for my business.

Thanks Gen and all the best this weekend! Gennifer Strobo is also a Team Bombshell Instructor and you can find out more at bombshellfitness.com.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Interviews

IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Orlando Figure Preview & Poll

April 27, 2011 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

Twenty-one women are slated to compete at this weekend’s IFBB Europa Show of Champions. A new champion will be crowned as last year’s champ, Erin Stern will not be competing. She will be in attendance at the event and checking in through out the weekend. Who will wear the crown this year?

Hardbody 411:

Stephanie Bambrough - Stephanie typically competes in the fitness division but will try her hand in the figure competition. She’s a cut girl with good personality. Might in a little over her head with this line up to hang in the top five but a top 10 finish would be a victory for her.

Holly Beck – Holly has great shape and lots of potential. She was knocking on the door of the top spots in 2009 but slipped out of the top ten last year. We’ll see if some time off will help her get back into a to spot.

Cheryl Brown - Cheryl has been on a mission since placing 11th at the Olympia. She successfully defended her title at the Kentucky Pro to end the 2010 season. She finished 5th in her Figure International debut last month. She’s one of the favorites heading into this show and has to be considered the one to beat. While she doesn’t have my favorite physique in the division she does continue to improve. The little details might be the determining factor for the win. Things like her stage presence and hair/make up. If she’s got it all together look for her to win, if not the door is open for someone else.

Nicole Carter – Nicole is from Barbados and I’m not very familiar with her history. She’ll have her work cut out for her to crack the top 10 in this line up but it’s great to see competitors from outside the US competing.

Viviana Casarubbia - Viviana calls Argentina home and will return to the states once again. She carries a good deal of muscle and if she brings the same package she did last year, she’ll be on the outside looking in. Based on what she looked like in the past she might be a great candidate for the new women’s physique division. We’ll see what she brings to the stage this weekend.

Ginette Delhaes – Ginette has the looks and the potential to move up into a top spot. She’s been on the outside of the top ten her last couple shows but I look for her to finish in the top ten here. She’ll need to have tighter glutes and hamstrings to do it though.

Lauren DeNapoli - Lauren is another fitness competitor trying her hand at Figure. She turned pro at the 2009 Team Universe and made her pro debut last year at the NY Pro Fitness. She has a nice physique and could be in the mix here.

Melissa Frederick – Melissa made the switch to figure at the St. Louis Pro show and finished in sixth. She made her way to the New York Pro Fitness where she finished at the bottom of the pack. I look for her to be in the top ten here. She just needs to come in full and not too stringy with her physique.

Alana Hernandez - It’s been a couple years since we’ve seen Alana compete. She has a nice physique and isn’t overly muscular. Many times her suit choice and presentation has hurt her. It’s good to see her back on stage and we’ll see if she can crack the top ten here. I’d like to see her bring straight wavy hair versus the tight curls she’s show in the past. I can only assume her hair is naturally curly. Sounds silly but hair choice can make a difference.

Candice John - Candice has a rock’n physique. Her biggest challenge is bringing a tight booty and not being too muscular on stage. Shes’ steadily moved her way up into the top 10 consistently and I wouldn’t be surprised if she make a run for a top five spot here.

Candice Keene - Candice is coming off an 8th place finish at the Figure International. She was a little off but not by much, I would have placed her higher and look for her to be in the mix for the win here. I can’t see her being out of the top five this weekend. If Candice stayed on her game plan after Columbus she’ll be at her best here.

CeaAnna Kerr - CeaAnna is still trying to find her groove in the pro ranks but she is making head way. I see her somewhere in the middle of the pack here. If she cracks the top ten she could consider it a successful showing in this competitive line up.

Kaylen McKenzie – Kaylen went from 14th at the 2010 NPC Jr. Nationals to winning the overall at the 2010 North American Championships. She definitely stepped up her game. If she brings that same look to the stage this weekend she’ll be one of the rookie standouts. This will be her pro debut so let’s see what she brings to the big league.

Petra Mertl - Peta had her best showing last year at the Ft. Lauderdale Cup to end the year out. She’ll look to pick up where she left off and move into the top five. She’s been up and down in her placings over the years but has yet to finish higher than 7th. It won’t be easy to get into the top spots here but we’ll see what she brings.

Kristen Nagrani - Kristen will be making her pro debut this weekend after turning pro last summer. She turned pro at the same time her daughter, Bikini Olympia Champ Nicole. She’s always in shape and is a consistent competitor in every show she enters. I see her in the top 10 and if she’s on the money with her conditioning look for her to be in the top five.

Kat Ramirez - Kat continues to improve from show to show. She was 7th at the Jacksonville Pro last year. At the New York Pro I remember thinking she needed to go eat a pizza and fill out. When she comes in full her physique is great, if she comes in too small and stringy she’ll be on the outside looking in. I look for her to be at her best and be in the top five.

Elvimar Sanchez - I love Elvimar’s look but it isn’t the look that wins shows. She needs to be much tighter in the lower body to be in the mix. She has the looks and stage presence but it will require a much tighter bod.

Gennifer Strobo - Strobo has the curse of a fast metabolism. If she doesn’t eat and eat and eat she comes in small and stringy. She’s added some size since turning pro and if she comes in full she’ll be in the top three here. If she’s small and stringy, she’ll be on the outside of the qualifying Olympia spots.

Sandi Stuart - Sandi is one of the fitness gals making her way to Figure for this show. She shared that her intent was to head to the Fibo Pro but had to switch things up. Since she’s in shape she decided to throw her name in the mix. It’s a tough line up and she’ll have her work cut out for her to get in the mix with this cast of competitors.

Ann Titone - Ann did a ton of shows last year which isn’t always bad but in her case it didn’t help. Sometimes competitors need to give their body a rest and make improvements. We’ll see if the time off since last Fall treated her well. She’ll be gunning for a top five spot, it’ll be her first time doing so if she’s able to get there.

Amy Vetter – Amy was sixth at her pro debut last year at the Houston Pro. I like her look and if she can come in a bit sharper from behind than she was in her debut, she’ll be in the hunt. She looks good from the front but the detail and conditioning will need to be improved to be in a top spot. She has the potential, let’s see if she brings it.

n

Who do you think will win 2011 Orlando Pro Figure?

Stefanie Bambrough

Holly Beck

Cheryl Brown

Nicole Carter

Vivianna Casarubbia

Ginette Delhas

Lauren DeNapoli

Melissa Frederick

Alana Hernandez

Candice John

Candice Keene

CeaAnna Kerr

Kaylen McKenzie

Petra Mertl

Kristen Nagrani

Kat Ramirez

Elvimar Sanchez

Gen Strobo

Sandi Stuart

Ann Titone

Amy Vetter

View Results

See photos from last year’s event here. Follow along all weekend long as I report live from the press pit. Photos, along with live callouts and play-by-play will be coming at ya here. Good luck to all the competitors. For more information on this event visit: www.visionstarinc.com.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Europa Show of Champions Orlando: IFBB Bikini Preview & Poll

April 25, 2011 By Isaac Hinds 14 Comments

The IFBB Pro Bikini women are back on stage in Orlando. Last year, Nathalia Melo made her pro debut and took home top honors. Can she hold onto her crown? Eight other women have their eyes on the prize and will look to snatch it from her this weekend. Ed and Betty Pariso, the promoters of the event, will stage another great show for the fans of Florida. This is a two-day event taking place on April 29-30.

Hardbody 411:

Jaime Baird - Jaime is on a mission to collect her first pro win and she’ll give Nathalia a run for her money here. Jaime has the luxury of not having to travel for the show and those of you who compete know what an advantage this can be. She’s coming of a fifth place showing at the Bikini International and has really come into her own the last two shows. She’s confident, sexy, sassy and has what it takes to do well here.

Vanessa Campbell - This will be the first time we see Vanessa on stage this year. She finished the 2010 season with a 13th place finish at the Olympia. She should be in the mix for the top five at this show if she comes in with the package she presented at Team Universe, where she turned pro. She has the exotic looks that help her stand out from the competition and one of the few women who can rock the short hair and look good.

Trina Goosby - She took the 2010 season off to earn her Masters degree and made her pro debut last month. Trina placed 7th in a competitive line up at the St. Louis Pro. If she comes in a little bit tighter she’ll be in the mix for the top spots. I wasn’t in St. Louis to know how she presented herself but she obviously can hold her own.

Dayna Maleton - The Jersey girl is back and we’ll have to wait and see which Dayna shows up on stage. She has a great physique, there is no question about that. She stays in shape year-round and if anything she’s a bit too lean/muscular looking on stage. She’s one of those women in between divisions, a little too small currently for figure and a little too muscular for bikini. She’s brought a physique that could do well but presented like a deer in the headlights. If she brings a tone physique with confidence and grace to the stage she’ll be in the top callout, if not she’ll be on the outside looking in.

Nathalia Melo - Ah Melooooo. The Brazilian is Back and looking to hold onto her crown. She was at her all-time best at the Bikini International, where she finished third. I wouldn’t have had her lower than second there but hey that’s just me. If she brings the same package and presentation to this stage that she had in Columbus, she’ll keep her crown. If she gets a little nutty and tries to do too much like she did at the Europa Dallas, Jaime Baird or someone else will be the Queen of the night. We’ll have to wait and see which Melo shows up.

Samantha Morris - Samantha had a less than stellar debut at the Ft. Lauderdale Cup in 2010 and will look to redeem herself this weekend. She’s a taller girl and needs to come in tighter in order to hang with the top women. She was a consistent top three contender in the NPC ranks but it’s a new ball game in the pro league. We’ll see if she stepped up her game and is on the money in Orlando.

Khanh Nguyen – Khanh is a character. When she’s offstage and in photo shoots she’s a hoot. If she can channel some of that energy to the stage she’ll move up. Her biggest problem in the past was her boobs were all you saw on stage. She didn’t pose with confidence and it hurt her placings. She found a suit that strapped the girls down and now if she can nail her presentation she’ll move up. She has a great physique and could be top five here.

Kira Rivera - Kira competed in a number of shows last year and was up and down in her placings. She had an impressive debut at this show last year with a fourth place finish. She’s had a few months off from the stage and we’ll see if she can repeat her showing of last year. It will come down to how well she presents herself on stage.

Kristy Robbins - Kristy has been in the game for awhile. The crew she’s competing against may not even be familiar with who she is but she’s ready to make them notice this weekend. Kristy was the 2002 Overall NPC Nationals Figure Champion and placed fifth at the 2003 Figure International. This will be her debut in bikini and her first show since 2004. Welcome back Kristy.

n

Who do you think will win the Europa Show of Champions Pro Bikini?

Jaime Baird

Vanessa Campbell

Trina Goosby

Dayna Maleton

Nathalia Melo

Samantha Morris

Khanh Nguyen

Kira Rivera

Kristy Robbins

View Results

Follow along all weekend long as I report live from the press pit. Photos will be posted, along with live callouts and play-by-play. Good luck to all the competitors. For more information on this event visit: www.visionstarinc.com.

Filed Under: IFBB Europa Super Show, IFBB Orlando Pro

Europa Show of Champions – IFBB Figure & Bikini Competitor Lists

April 14, 2011 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

Figure and Bikini will return to Orlando, Florida on April 30, 2011. Promoters Ed and Betty Pariso always put on a top notch event that caters to the competitors. Last year Nathalia Melo took top honors in the Bikini Division and Erin Stern was crowned the Figure champion. Who will it be this year?

IFBB PRO FIGURE
Holly Beck
Cheryl Brown
Nicole Carter
Vivianna Casarubbia
Ginette Delhas
Alana Hernandez
Candice Keene
CeaAnna Kerr
Kaylen McKenzie
Petra Mertl
Kristen Nagrani
Kat Ramirez
Elvimar Sanchez
Gennifer Strobo
Ann Titone

IFBB PRO Bikini
Jamie Baird
Vanessa Campbell
Trina Goosby
Nathalia Melo
Khanh Nguyen
Kira Rivera
Kristy Robbins

More info:
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Florida
April 29th – April 30th, 2011
visionstarinc.com/orlando/home.html

We’ll be there covering the event and doing photo shoots. If you’re looking to shoot during the weekend or the week following, email Isaac for more info.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Hardbody Video: Orlando Figure Pro Champ Erin Stern

April 22, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 1 Comment

Erin Stern was poolside doing photo shoots the day after her first pro win. We caught up with Erin to chat about her training, Godfather’s pizza and more. Check out what she had to say when asked who will win between her and Nicole Wilkins-Lee. Erin was the runner-up to Nicole at the 2010 Figure International and the two will meet up again on the Figure Olympia stage this fall.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Interviews

Hardbody Video: Myriam “Mimi” Capes

April 22, 2010 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

Myriam “Mimi” Capes chats with us the day after her second place finish at the 2010 Orlando Pro. Find out where Myriam will be competing next and if she’s single or not…

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Photos: Orlando’s Top Five in Fitness

April 18, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 2 Comments

A quick photographic look at the top five competitors from the Orlando Pro show. Great work ladies!

Camala Rodriguez leaping to her first pro win.

Myriam Capes soars to a second place finish.

Regiane shows off some of her crazy strength moves.

Erin Riley with some strength of her own.

Kristina Rojas shows off one of her wicked cool moves.

For more fitness routine photos visit Bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

2010 Europa Show of Champions – Full Results

April 17, 2010 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

Congratulations to all the women on another successful IFBB pro show. Erin Stern, Nathalia Melo and Camala Rodriguez each collected their first pro victory. Look for my full report tomorrow. In the mean time you can check out the photo coverage from the show at Bodybuilding.com and FLEXonline.com.

2010 Europa Show of Champions Results. For the complete scorecards visit IFBBpro.com.

Bikini
1. Nathalia Melo*
2. Jaime Baird*
3. Missy Coles*
4. Kira Rivera
5. Janet Harding
6. Khanh Nguyen
7. Marzia Prince
8. Jessica Lawrence
9. Shay Monroe
10. Shelsea Montes
11. Sheryln Roy
12. Kat Holmes
13. Safiya Johnson
14. Julie Costa

Fitness
1. Camala Rodriguez*
2. Myriam Capes*
3. Regiane Da Silva*
4. Erin Riley
5. Kristina Rojas
6. Allison Either
7. Sylvia Tremblay
8. Nicole Duncan
9. Melissa Fredrick
10. Kayde Puckett
11. Sandi Stuart
12. Victoria Larvie

Figure
1. Erin Stern*
2. Marcy Porter*
3. Cheryl Brown*
4. Latisha Wilder
5. Candice Keene
6. Marie Ann Newman
7. Petra Metrl
8. Ann Titone
9. Candice John
10. Danielle Kifer
11. Elvimar Sanchez
12. Jessica Wright
13. Linda Fodor
14. Tessa Wood-Thomas
15. Listy Allen
16. Tammy Strome
16. Taylor Waldrop
16. Ginette Delhaes
16. Nina DiTommaso Morgan

*Qualify for the 2010 Olympia

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB Orlando Pro

Orlando Pro Thursday Recap

April 16, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 1 Comment

Last night the pros had their competitor check-in. The meeting was held at the host hotel, the Hilton Orlando, which is connected to the convention center. It’s a little bit of a walk but it’s far superior to the host hotel last year. The hotel in 2009 was a bit of a drive, so this makes it convenient for the competitors and expo vendors. It’s a very nice hotel and one you usually don’t see for bodybuilding competitions.

There’s plenty of cardio equipment in the hotel gym, all of which is brand new, but it comes at a $10 charge. It’s not so bad considering that’s about the same price as a bottle at the mini-market in the hotel. The rooms are nice, clean and have refrigerators in them. This is an essential item for every competitor.

Betty Pariso put on her promoter’s cap and welcomed her fellow IFBB Pros to the second annual Orlando Pro show (Europa Show of Champion is the official title). The women all seemed pretty upbeat and there were only two or three who had the “deer in the headlights” look in their eyes. I had the chance to chat with some of the women.

Myraim Capes was still waiting for her luggage to arrive but as a seasoned pro, she knows to pack her essential competition items in her carry-on. She was hang’n with make-up artists J.

jmyriam
J and Myriam chill’n at the check-in.

Erin Stern looks good and feels great. You’d never know she’s competing as she’s always upbeat and cracking jokes. She drew number thirteen for her competitor number. Will she be lucky or cursed with the number?

erinstern123
Erin Stern eeeks over drawing number 13.

Nathalia Melo was goofy as usual and was ready to not only compete but also eat. Nathalia was so hungry that she nearly took a bite out of fellow competitor, Jaime Baird’s arm. Bringing new meaning to “bikini bite”.

bikinibite
Jamie gasps as Nathalia goes in for a bite.

I met Shay Monroe for the first time and she is a rockstar. Shay caught up with Jessica Lawrence and reminisced about the Jr. Nationals where they last competed together. The two will meet again today on the pro bikini stage.

shay_jess
Jess and Shay at the competitor check-in.

Check Bodybuilding.com later today for all the photos from the check-in meeting.

The prejudging begins today at 3pm. Here’s the order of events for the show.
Pro Women’s Figure: 2PC Swimsuit Round
Pro Bikini
Pro Women’s Fitness: 2PC Swimsuit Round
Pro Women’s Figure: One-Piece Swimsuit Round

I’ll be tweeting during the event with call-outs, comparisons and general thoughts on the show. PLEASE keep in mind that when I offer my opinion it is just that, an opinion. We all have them, we’re all entitled to them and it’s okay if we don’t always agree.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Europa Show of Champions Schedule & Updates

April 15, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 3 Comments

Tonight the pros will check-in for the Orlando Pro show and I’ll be there covering the action. This weekend you can follow what’s happening in a variety of ways. Those of you in Florida, there’s no better way to experience it than being there in person. You can get ticket information here. If you’re following along online you can stay updated via twitter.com/hardbodynews. I now have an app from my iPhone that allows me to broadcast live on Ustream, so I’ll be doing more of that throughout the weekend to give you an inside look at the action as it happens live. The fastest way to find out when I’m broadcasting is to follow the hardbody twitter or become a follower on Ustream. Photos will be posted on Bodybuilding.com and FLEXonline.com throughout the weekend.

I’ll be touching down in Florida later today and will check into the host hotel, which from the looks of things should be pretty sweet.

hosthotel

Here’s the skinny on the weekend’s schedule.

Thursday:
IFBB PRO WOMEN MEETNG: Thursday 7:00pm HOTEL
IFBB PRO MEN MEETNG: Thursday 8:00pm HOTEL

Friday:
Pro Men’s Bodybuilding – Pro Figure – Pro Fitness – Pro Bikini – 202 Pro Men
IFBB PRO PRE-JUDGING: Friday 3:00pm Main Stage *Must have seat ticket
NPC MEETING: Friday 6:30pm Convention Center South Hall A

Saturday:
NPC (Amateur) EUROPA SHOW OF CHAMPIONS
NPC Men & Women Bodybuilding – NPC Fitness – NPC Figure – NPC Bikini
NPC PRE-JUDGING: Saturday 8:30am Main Stage *Must have seat ticket
IFBB PRO FINALS: Saturday 2:00pm Main Stage *Must have seat ticket
NPC FINALS: Saturday 7:00pm Main Stage *Must have seat ticket

EXPO EVENTS:
Friday Retail Buyers only: Noon-2:00 / Friday EXPO Open 2:00pm
Saturday EXPO 8:30am – 6:30pm

* Custom Car Show
* Grapplers Quest Grappling Tournament
* American Strongman Championship
* UFC Matt Hughes Champ Camp
* Arm Wrestling Championship
* Cover Model Contest
* Hot Mom Contest
* Martial Arts
* Strongman
* Powerlifting
* USA Wrestling
* Kick USA
* Kids Midway
* Sports Supplement Vendors

Hot Body Cover Model & Hot Fit Mom Contest -Competitors Meeting-Friday-Noon-Convention Center
Round 1 Friday 4:00pm Main Stage
Round 2 Saturday 12:30 estimated Main Stage

EXPO TICKET ALL EXPO tickets purchased at door.
1 DAY EXPO $20 Ages 13-Adult $10 Ages 6-12 Ages 5 under FREE
2 DAY EXPO SPECIAL $30 Ages 13-Adult $15 Ages 6-12 Ages 5 under FREE

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Erin Stern’s Operation Orlando – The Final Hours

April 15, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 6 Comments

IFBB Figure Pro Erin Stern was the runner-up at this year’s Figure International event. She’s come close a few times but we’re not playing horse shoes or hand grenades. Erin’s mission for the weekend? Leave with her first pro win but isn’t that every woman’s goal? Check out the latest update from Erin as she works on a few final touches.

esternorlando

Hours ’til go-time..

I haven’t moved everything to Tampa yet, so I’m spending the rest of my prep in this small town. I haven’t gotten on a treadmill or other type of cardio equipment since I changed gyms before the Arnold. I have wanted to but the movement of the machines is “crunchy.” (If you can picture the Tin Man from “Wizard of Oz,” it’s like that). Even if I wanted to get on a machine, the cardio equipment is arranged in a circle, facing center…so, you have “slow-motion lady” on the elliptical, “karaoke guy” on the stair climber, and “emo-teen” on the cross-trainer. We’re all facing each other and you can’t focus your gaze straight ahead, because it looks like you’re staring…so everyone sort of looks down… So, I have been running at the track, the park, or the stadium.

My outlook for this show is different – I have been doing a lot of visualization and watching youtube videos of pageants, and “how-to” videos on posing/stage presence. I have also been studying make-up techniques, and now understand that “too much is never enough” is the wrong motto for any competitor to have. So, I’m not bringing the fire engine red lipstick or the uber-dark eye shadow.

All of the exterior polish certainly helps, but true shine must come from within. I have been critical and hard on myself, in every aspect. Even when friends and family believed in me, I doubted myself, and felt I could do better. While this is a fantastic trait to have in the gym, it won’t work on stage. My goal for this weekend is to be in peak condition, to bring an improved physique, and to give it my all… and be satisfied with the journey and outcome!! And as crazy as it sounds.. my stage persona, Egylo, is only part of the equation…the other part is knowing that Erin believes in her!!

See ya in Orlando!

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Who will make a splash in Orlando?

April 14, 2010 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

The final lists have been posted for the IFBB Orlando Pro Show and it looks to be a very competitive line-up in the women’s divisions. Who do YOU think will win each of the divisions?

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Riley’s Return – Hardbody Interview

April 14, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 3 Comments

IFBB Fitness Pro Erin Riley will return to the stage this weekend after suffering a shoulder injury. I caught up with Erin days out from the Orlando Pro show for an interview. Check out what Rock’n Riley had to say.

erinriley

Currently live in:
Port Reading, NJ

Occupation:
I am a clinical dietitian at a hospital in Staten Island, NY. I work on an infectious disease floor, so its mostly medical nutrition therapy for patients that are very sick.

How hard is it working while training for a fitness competition?
This has been my first contest prep that has been split with a full time job. In one sense it makes it a little more difficult because of timing. For example, I typically work the 7am-3pm shift, so I had to adjust to waking up pretty early for my morning cardio. But, once you get into a routine, it’s really not too bad. On the other hand, having a job that is non-fitness related also helps me, because it keeps everything in perspective, and helps keep me more balanced.

For those that don’t know, remind everyone what injury you had & how you got it…
I started having shoulder pain a little before the 2008 Olympia, but it started out as just a nagging, bothersome pain….and unfortunately, I chose to ignore it, train through it, and hope that it would eventually go away on its own. It just continued to get worse as I trained for and competed at the 2009 spring shows. After the Orlando Europa last year, I decided to take some time off from training to give it a rest, but the rest didn’t seem to help at all. So, I finally decided to see a Dr, who in turn did an MRI which showed a torn labrum. Once the Dr got in there for the surgery, he actually found quite a bit of damage, including 2 large tears in the labrum, a rotator cuff tear, and a significant amount of bone and cartilage damage. So from what the Dr tells me, it was pretty ugly. He still can’t believe what I was doing on it in that condition. The injuries weren’t caused by one specific incident, I think just years of wear and tear from gymnastics that caught up with me.

Any effect mentally on you since the surgery?
The only effect it has on me mentally is that it has made me more aware of my body and has forced me to listen to it when it tells me enough is enough. It’s probably a good thing!

How did the injury change your training?
I haven’t been able to do as much volume with my upper body training, and my weight training workouts tend to be much lighter now. I’ve actually only been weight training about 3 times per week, and using the other days for rehab and routine work (and rest!). I am also not able to train/practice my routine as much as I used to, so I have been doing a lot more high intensity cardio to build my fitness level and endurance for the routine (not longer durations, just more interval/higher intensity programs). The change in cardio has also seemed to improve my physique, so its a win/win!

From the looks of the videos you posted, you haven’t missed a beat with your strength moves. Is there anything you can’t do now that you did before?
Well, to be honest, my shoulder is still not 100%. There are a few things that tend to bother it more than others, like pressing and some of the tumbling. But the biggest change has just been in the amount of practice time and repetitions of things I can do. I used to do a lot of numbers with my routines, and now, its pretty much go in, focus on hitting what I need to hit clean once or twice, and thats it.

You were often criticized as having “too much muscle” did the forced time off strip down some of that muscle?
Genetically speaking, I’ve always had a big upper body and I tend to build muscle very easily. I wasn’t sure at first, but now that I’m dieted down, I can definitely tell that my shoulders, back and arms are smaller than they have been in a long time. I think its a combination of having all that time off after the surgery, and also not being able to lift as heavy as I used to. But I guess thats not a bad thing! You actually can see and judge for yourself if you go to http://erin.gasparinutrition.com, I posted some one week out progress pics on my blog page. The only rule is, no one is allowed to laugh at my 5:30am morning hair do!! LOL

erinriley1week

What inspires you to use the hard core rock music in your routines?
Well, if you didn’t notice from the videos, the routine I’m using for Orlando is an “oldie” for me. It’s actually my first (and favorite!) routine I ever competed, (with a few changes of course!), so I’m really excited to get to do it again. I am one of the few competitors that doesn’t pick music based on a theme. I tend to just listen through A LOT of music and try to find things that I know I can perform well to, and that the crowd will get into. It always just so happens that its the rock songs that have the coolest musical parts for me to use! It seems to work for me…. Trust me, if I tried to do hip-hop dancing or something like that, you all would laugh me off the stage!

Will this be the only show we see you compete in or will there be others?
I haven’t decided for sure yet, as I still have to take things one day at a time, but I am hoping to at least do the Europa in Dallas, in August. When I started dieting for this show, I wasn’t even sure if I’d be able to get in shape in time, or be able to put together a decent routine (I was struggling with getting through 10 push-ups back in November), and here I am, feeling strong and ready to go. So it just goes to show you that you never know what you can do, or what will happen!

Anyone you want to thank or give a shout out to?
So many people have helped me get back for this show and I am so grateful to all of them. First and foremost my boyfriend of 5 years, Jeff, who is always there for me no matter what; Gaspari Nutrition for sticking with me through the injury…I am so lucky to be a part of such a great company; Mike Davies for believing that I could be ready for this show, even when I didn’t (at first!), and getting my butt back in shape; Mike Camp, my physical therapist; Jon Chipko for doing my “post rehab, rehab” and getting my shoulder strong enough to do what I do; Dr. Danielle Damelio, my ART specialist; of course my mom and dad for being so supportive even though they think I’m crazy; Maggie Keaveny for making me a beautiful new suit and routine costume; Sandi Stuart for being a great friend and helping to keep me sane during this prep; and I’m sure there are others that I’ve missed, but I know that I didn’t get here on my own and I am truly appreciative of all the help and support I’ve had from the people around me.

Thanks Erin. Good luck!
Thank you for the opportunity and for hosting such a great site!

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Interviews

Rock’n Riley Returns

April 9, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 9 Comments

IFBB Fitness Pro Erin Riley has established herself as one of the rocker chics in the industry. No, not because of any wild nights or destroying hotels rooms but rather her routines. She always performs to some type of kick ass rock song and it suits her well. The amount of strength she brings to the stage matches the music she uses in her routines. Last year at the Orlando Pro she finished just out of the money in fourth place. Erin was sidelined with an injury for most of 2009 but she’s back and gives everyone a sneak peak at her routine.

From the looks of things she hasn’t missed a beat and we can expect another powerful, rock’n routine from her in Orlando.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Misc

Safiya Johnson Switches to Bikini

April 7, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 4 Comments

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…

safiyajohnson
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

Good luck Safiya!

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Interviews

Erin Stern’s Operation Orlando

April 6, 2010 By Isaac Hinds 3 Comments

IFBB Figure Pro Erin Stern finished in the runner-up position at the 2010 Figure International. She’ll be back on stage next week looking to notch her first pro win. Can she do it? Follow along with Erin’s Operation Orlando.

esternorlando
To cheat or not to cheat…

Four weeks have passed since the Arnold, and a lot has changed – after the A, I ate a whole pizza, was asked to compete in the New Zealand Pro the week after, started more sport-specific training, and signed a lease on an apartment 100 miles away from where I’m currently living! Well, after the pizza I started my depletion/prep for the NZ show, drove to Miami for an expedited passport, and… we just couldn’t get the travel details together in time! That night I had to reassess my training plans and refocus prep to the Europa. Back to carbs, creatine and crucial weight and track workouts!

Fast-forward to today. I have been moving stuff a little bit at a time and training 2-3x a week in Tampa. I’m sprinting more on the track, power-lifting and really lovin’ the workouts! My training has been tougher, I’ve been eating more – and I feel ready to compete… right now! The show is about two weeks away and I’m faced with the dilemma of having a cheat meal or not. Looking at my progress pictures, I decided to take Saturday off and up my calories for the day. It shouldn’t have been a tough decision if I had just listened to my body (note to self) .

Last year, I got into “cardio pre-contest mode,” and at the end of the season I was about 5lbs lighter on stage than I should’ve been. I think it was from being on the forums, on facebook and other sites where other competitors were getting ready for shows. I would read updates like, “it’s 5 a.m. and I’m up for my first round of cardio,” or “so-and-so diets for 12 weeks prior to a show.” I felt like I should be doing tons of cardio, too! I didn’t take into consideration that I had been doing shows all year, and that instead of all that cardio I should be in the weight room working harder on improving the weak points in my physique!

There is no coasting into a show – we all have to make adjustments based on how our physiques currently look, and hopefully these adjustments will lead to improvements.

Time will tell…

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

2010 Orlando Europa Show Of Champions Competitor Lists

April 5, 2010 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

Orlando, Florida will play host to the 2010 Europa Show of Champions next Saturday. This year’s event will feature not only IFBB Pro Fitness, Figure and Bikini but also a NPC event. The competitor numbers aren’t huge, yet but look for a number of women to be added before showtime. As of today the competition looks like this…

FITNESS – April 6th update
Myriam Capes
Regiane Da Silva
Nicole Duncan
Allison Ethier
Victoria Larvie
Amanda Marinelli
Kayde Puckett
Erin Riley
Kristina Rojas
Sandi Stuart
Sylvia Tremblay

FIGURE
Listy Allen
Cheryl Brown
Raechelle Chase
Linda Fodor
Candice Keene
Danielle Kifer
Nina DiTommaso Morgan
Erin Stern
Tammy Strome
Taylor Waldrop
Tessa Wood-Thomes
Jessica Wright

BIKINI
Jamie Baird
Melissa Coles
Janet Harding
Shay Monroe
Shelsea Montes
Nathalia Moreira
Marzia Prince
Kira Rivera

Over the weekend in Boulder a few pros mentioned they would be competing in this event. Listy Allen and Taylor Waldrop both said they will be competing in the figure event while Camala Rodriquez plans to do fitness. Nathalia Moreira will also make her pro debut in bikini. Visit orlandosportsexpo.com for more information on this event.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Part One: Monica Brant with LAMUSCLE.tv

May 18, 2009 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

Check out the first in a three part series where LAmuscle.tv goes Behind-The-Scenes with Monica Brant at the Orlando Pro show. The first part sets the stage for what Monica went through in the midst of doing this show.

Check back as you’ll get to see my mug on a photoshoot with Monica. I know you’re all dying to see that. LOL! Good stuff and props to Rob Riches for the video.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Photo of The Day – IFBB Pro Spotting – Teresa Anthony

May 7, 2009 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

IFBB Figure Pro Teresa Anthony was in attendance at the Orlando Pro show last month. What’s up with this figure diva? She’s been enjoying her off-season as she is already qualified for this year’s Figure Olympia. If you’re in Atlanta this weekend for Ty Ropeman’s NPC show keep your eye out for Teresa, she is slated to be in attendance.

Teresa Anthony looking good in Florida.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Orlando Pro Fitness Photos

May 1, 2009 By Isaac Hinds Leave a Comment

More photos from the Orlando Pro are featured on IFBBpro.com.

Winner Shannon Meteraud gets up!

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Erin Riley Rocks

April 27, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 4 Comments

Erin Riley is one of the rising stars of the IFBB Fitness world. This was the final shot of Erin at the Orlando Pro and you can see she’s rock’n some ripped shoulders. If Erin streamlines her physique a bit in the coming months she could become a threat to the top spots in the years to come. Definitely becoming one of my favorite fitness competitors.

Erin Riley lays it all on the line in Orlando.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro

Nashville’s Got a New Star

April 23, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 3 Comments

Nashville Figure Star Valerie Haines

You won’t read about this woman singing at the Grand Ole Opry. Nah, that’s of little interest to IFBB Figure Pro, Valerie Haines. While belting it out with the likes of Dolly Parton may not Valerie Haines forte, putting together an impressive pro figure physique is. Last weekend Valerie took the stge in Orlando where she made quite the statement. Valerie placed 6th out of a competitive field of 28 at the Europa Show of Champions. It’d been a few months since we last saw Val, so I caught up with her to see what she’s been up to.

Where ya been Val and why the time off since your last show?
I wanted to make some significant changes and I knew I had to take some time off to do so…and I think I did. My last show prior to the Europa was 2007 NY Pro where I placed 12th.

I’d agree you did make some significant changes. Do you feel it was the time off that helped?
Absolutely. I feel like I “rebuilt” my physique in a way. I am THRILLED with the results too!

I didn’t see you sporting any bags of asparagus this time – did you make any changes to your diet or training since you last competed?
LOL…That picture is classic Isaac! Actually, I did change my prep diet quite a bit this time around. My cardio was less intense and I did very low to no carbs throughout my prep. I maintained a high fat content and it seemed to work well for me.

Did you diet longer than usual or how long was your prep for this show?
I didnt prep any longer than I usually do. I always start at 16 weeks out. I did incorporate a second cardio session up until about 6 weeks out this time around. But thats the only thing I did differently.

Are you going to jump into another show or enjoy the summer and hit a later event?
I am going to take a SMALL break, not like the last break. Believe me, I have a fire inside me now and I will be back. Look for me at the Kentucky Pro in November!

What’s your occupation besides being a Pro Figure competitor?
Scheduling Coordinator for a dental office

So, do you notice people’s teeth first?
LOL… Actually, yes I do! that’s the first thing I see.

Congratulations Valerie. We’ll look for ya in the fall on the Kentucky stage.
Thank you.

See more photos of Valerie from the Orlando Pro show here.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Interviews

ALRI’s Troy Johnson The Next Swami?

April 22, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 5 Comments

I offered up $100 to anyone who could correctly predict the top 5 in order. Troy Johnson who is very familiar with the Figure scene came the closest with his predictions. He called the top three in exact order which is impressive. He even called Inga as the dark horse and Erin Stern in the top five. I can’t hold his fifth place prediction of Kristin against him. I’ve got your first drink at the next show Troy. Nice work.

Troy’s Top Five Figure
1- Nicole Wilkins-Lee
2- Heather Mae French
3- Monica Brant
4- Erin Stern
5- Kristin Nunn
Dark horse’s- Inga Neverauskaite and Cea Anna Kerr

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB Orlando Pro, Misc

Random Thoughts From Orlando Pro Show Weekend

April 21, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 4 Comments

A few random thoughts from my nearly week long stay in Orlando and the Europa Show of Champions. The Good, The Bad and The in Between…
• The venue and hotels were conveniently located from the airport. The airport itself was easy and affordable to fly into.

• The hotel staff didn’t seem to have much information on the schedule of events or shuttle service to the venue. I was at the second host hotel and it was a nice hotel but the staff seemed fairly clueless on the entire event.

• The show ran much quicker than it did in Dallas. There were two less events for the pros, so that obviously helped.

• Orlando was a good place to hold an event like this, my only hope is that it’s near another show to draw in more competitors – primarily for the men and not the women.

• Note to Self: Don’t procrastinate and leave late for the airport. I missed my flight to Orlando because I didn’t pack the night before and hit traffic. I missed my flight back (which sucked because only one flight back on my airline) because I didn’t allow enough time to return the rental car.
• The lighting improved for the NPC show and the night show of the pros but I hope every promoter can do the competitors justice by properly lighting the stage. I know every venue is different and it’s a challenge to often work with the given venue however if the competitors put in the time and effort to attend your show, they deserve to show off their hard work with proper lighting.

• A number of women commented to me that they were dissappointed in the evening show. Every competitor had to get in their two-piece outfits but only the top three went on stage. By that point in time the scores are tabulated and there is no reason (in my opinion) to make every competitor change into their two-piece if they are not going to all walk on stage. Either bring them out on stage one more time for another pose or inform them that they were not in the top placings.

• The vendors/supplement companies seemed pleased with the amount of traffic that the expo received. I was photographing the NPC and Pro events which didn’t allow for much time to hit the expo. What part I did, it seemed to run much the same as the Dallas show.

• Promoting shows is often a thankless job. Ed and Betty were able to duplicate their efforts in Orlando that they’ve done numerous times in Texas. It’s one thing to put on a show where you live, it’s an entirely different animal when you are organizing a show in another state. Overall I felt the did a good job. There are a couple little details I’d like to see change – like the lighting but aside from that it was a great showcase of talent with the women’s events.

• Erin Riley impressed me with her routine. It is choreographed to her music perfectly, when she hits a move in her routine it is timed with the beat.

• Myriam Capes is one to watch come Olympia time. She’s changed her physique a great deal and has one of the best routines you’ll ever see. She could be a top 6 finisher in September.

• Mindi O’Brien also had an awesome routine and did a great job of entertaining the crowd.

• Shannon Meteraud made it two in a row. Impressive. Especially when you consider she is 40 and able to do moves that women half her age are unable to do.

• Nicole Wilkins-Lee is definitely one of the stars of the future and it looks like her time arrived in Orlando.

• Heather Mae French looked her best ever and solidified herself as a top 5 competitor in any show she enters.

• Erin Stern has a great, athletic, healthy look that will continue to improve as she competes. She’s a great example of what a taller figure competitor should look like.

• NPC Bikini is still finding it’s way. There weren’t many competitors in the show so it’s hard to critique it. The top three in the Tall Bikini class stood out to me and should be able to hold their own on the National stage.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Misc

Europa Show Of Champions Results

April 19, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 8 Comments

Check out the score sheets on IFBBpro.com for a complete breakdown. I will be providing photos from the finals as well as the fitness routines later today or tomorrow. Congrats to all. Nicole Wilkins-Lee edged out Heather Mae French by one point to win her first pro show. Shannon Meteraud made it two wins in a row, while the two Canadian Fitness women rocked the house… Myriam Capes and Mindi O’Brien brought down the house with their routines.

Figure
1. Nicole Wilkins-Lee*
2. Heather Mae French*
3. Monica Brant*
4. Inga Neveravskaite
5. Erin Stern
6. Valerie Haines
7. Candice Keene
8. Rachel Cammon
9. Laura Sutter
10. Hazal Nelson-Etiz
11. Jennifer Migliacci
12. Natalie Waples
13. Karen Williams
14. Brandie Gardner
15. Kristin Nunn
16. Aymara Bernardo
16. Deanne Brown
16. Natalie Calland
16. Lisbeth Halikka
16. Alana Hernandez
16. Catherine Holland
16. Ines Jimenez
16. Cea Anna Kerr
16. Amy Lee Martin
16. Petra Mertl
16. Nicole Pitcher-Scott
16. Marcy Porter
16. Shelly Taucher

Fitness
1. Shannon Meteraud*
2. Myriam Capes*
3. Mindi O’Brien*
4. Erin Riley
5. Tina Durkin
6. Melissa Frederick
7. Donna Jones
8. Jessica Booth-Palmer
9. Ryall Graber
10. Siene Silva
11. Maggie Blanchard
12. Liza Hughes
13. Shannon Dey
14. Leslie Rae Newton
15. Mandy Polk

*Qualifies for the 2009 Olympia.

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB Orlando Pro

NPC Europa Show of Champions

April 18, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 1 Comment

Wow, long day here in Orlando. I hit the bed about 4:30am after sorting pics and updating things and then up at 7am to make it to the NPC prejudging. The prejudging started a little late and finished about 1:30 East Coast time. It didn’t leave me much time so I am still at the venue. Looking at the clock, the pro finals are set to start in 15 minutes. YIKES.

There were a couple women who were good in bikini and the figure. I’ll post more later but check the twitter account for updates from the night show.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro, Industry News

Orlando Pro Prejudging Photos

April 17, 2009 By Isaac Hinds 1 Comment

A big shout out to Dean Donlon at the main office of Bodybuilding.com for working with me to get these photos up in a timely manner. You can check out all the prejudging photos here!

Lighting wasn’t quite this bad but it definitely makes a difference.

I try not to be negative or criticize unjustly but I have to say the lighting at this show absolutely sucked. I’m not sure who set it up or why more attention isn’t given to it but my hope is some changes are made for the night show.

Filed Under: IFBB Orlando Pro