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Archives for April 2008

2007 NY PRO Fitness Champ comments on the ’08 Contest

April 14, 2008 by

The 2007 IFBB NY Pro Fitness champ, Tracey “Trixie” Greenwood, didn’t take the stage to defend her title. She’ll be competing in the later shows before heading to the Olympia in September. Trixie was in attendance for this year’s show and had this to share with me:

You were the champ last year – was it tough not to be on stage to defend the title?
No. it was relaxing and exciting to see alot of new girls competing. I was especially excited for my good friend Heidi Fletcher to win her first Pro show. I like to watch the other girls and see what the new up-and-comers are doing with their routines.

What did you think of the women’s routines as a whole – anyone impress you?
I am always impressed with everyone’s fitness routines. Not many people understand how HARD it is to practice routines day in and day out on hard floors. And not to mention practicing fitness routines while dieting and doing 60 minutes or more of additional cardio!! All of the Fitness competitors are TRUE CHAMPIONS in my eyes! That stuff is not easy! All of the girls were great!!

Did you agree with the top 3? Anyone you thought did well but missed out on the top spots?
I have no arguments on the final results of the show. I think the top 5 girls all did their homework and presented their best physiques and routines. It will be nice to see some new faces in the Olympia this year :)  Specials Congrats to my girl Heidi…I am soooo proud of you!!! And BIG CONGRATS to Trish Warren who defines the term, perseverance! And way to go Nicole Wilkins for qualifying at her 1st pro fitness show!

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Tracey Greenwood the 2007 NY PRO Fitness Champ.
Filed Under: Interviews, News & Features

Ms. Figure International Gina Aliotti on tonight’s Pep Talk

April 14, 2008 by

IFBB Pro Figure competitor, Gina Aliotti will stop by Larry Pepe’s “Pep Talk” radio show tonight. The show is on immediately after Pro Bodybuilding Weekly, which starts at 8PM ET. PBW’s guest tonight is NFL bad boy Bill Romanowski.

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Gina Aliotti’s future is bright.
Filed Under: Interviews

Erica Fuerst puts competition on hold

April 13, 2008 by

I spoke with IFBB Figure Pro Erica Fuerst (formerly Davidson) and she had a bit of news for me. She’s been preparing for the IFBB California Figure Pro show but suffered a back injury which will keep her out of the competition. Erica is feeling better but is unsure of when she’ll compete next. Take care of that back Edawg and we’ll look for you to hit the stage later in the year.

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Erica and I backstage at the 2007 Sacramento Pro Figure show.
Filed Under: News & Features

Complete New York Pro Fitness Results

April 12, 2008 by

Heidi Fletcher captures her first pro fitness win. Trish Warren and Nicole Wilkins also qualify for the Olympia.

1. Heidi Fletcher
2. Trish Warren
3. Nicole Wilkins
4. Nicole Duncan
5. Kendra Elias
6. Bethany Wagner
7. Oksana Grishina
8. Maggie Blanchard
9. Myriam Capes
10. Tami Ough
11. Jennifer Cassetty
12. Michelle Mayberry
13. Lisa McCormick
13. Donna Jones

Filed Under: Uncategorized

IFBB New York Pro Fitness Update

April 12, 2008 by

I’ve heard from a couple people at the show and the consensus is that Heidi Fletcher looks to be the winner after prejudging. Heidi has found a good balance to her conditioning for this show. IFBB pro rookie, Nicole Wilkins also looks good and will find herself in the top five and most likely top three. Trish Warren is looking very good and should be battling it out with Kendra Elias and Nicole Duncan for an Olympia birth. Oksana Grishina had a great 45 second routine but her physique will keep her out of the top three and most likely top five. The 2-minute routines will be held this evening to determine the winner.

Check back for results tonight and signup to receive the news first at www.musclephone.com.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

A sigh of relief for some…

April 10, 2008 by

Those who are competing at the JR. USA and JR. Nationals figure may breathe a sigh of relief but watch out USAs. Top NPC competitor, Erin “the cat trapper” Heath has informed me that she’s put her competition plans on hold until this year’s USAs in Las Vegas. Erin was narrowly missed her pro card in 2007 and will be a threat for one this year. Fans will have to wait until July to see her on stage but if you’re attending the Emerald Cup you can catch up with her at the Muscle Milk Booth, where she will be working.

Filed Under: News & Features

IRIS KYLE – 3x Ms. Olympia – 3x Ms. International

April 9, 2008 by

The IFBBpro.com web site has a nice feature on one of the top female bodybuilders, Iris Kyle. If you’re a female bodybuilding fan this is a great piece on the history of Iris’ career. Check it out on IFBBpro.com.

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Iris Kyle Feature.
Filed Under: Interviews, News & Features

WILKINS READY FOR NEW YORK

April 9, 2008 by

Check out my interview with Nicole Wilkins as she takes the fitness stage this weekend in New York. This is the first of many more female interviews and features on FLEXonline.com.

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Filed Under: Interviews

One week to choose your favorite candidate

April 8, 2008 by

You hold the power in helping to choose the next Weider spokesmodel. There is only one week left to vote for your favorite. The campaigns are heating up on the various message boards and social networking sites. Who do you like? Which woman will not only possess a pretty face, great physique but also represent Weider well? It’s up to you to help narrow the candidates down this month. Vote now on FLEXonline.com!

Filed Under: News & Features

NPC Figure Competitor Liza Kampsta and UFC’s Houston Alexander

April 8, 2008 by

I had the chance to shoot with NPC Figure competitor Liza Kampstra and the UFC’s Houston Alexander last week. I’m still sorting through all the shots but Liza lit it up and looked great. She’s preparing for the NPC Jr. Nationals and it was the best I’d seen her look this far out from a show. Keep your eye on her in Chicago as she’s a rising star in the industry.

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Liza Kampstra and Houston Alexander.

The UFC is attracting more and more fans, many of which are women. Ladies, are you a fan of the UFC? What do you like or dislike about it?

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Houston and Joe Rogan after his fight.

Unfortunately, Houston lost his fight but check out some of the training shots, video my article at bodybuilding.com. There are also a number of photos from the fights, which I was privileged to shoot, right on the octagon.

Filed Under: News & Features

Words of Wisdom – Inspired by Stefan Sagmeister

April 7, 2008 by

I ran across this today from famous designer, Stefan Sagmeister. I like it.

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Thought for the day. 🙂
Filed Under: News & Features

Tune in tonight to Pro Bodybuilding Weekly

April 7, 2008 by

If you’re at your computer tonight you can catch me on Pro Bodybuilding Weekly’s radio show. I’ll be on the second part of the hour long show. Dan Solomon and Bob Cicherillo will be interviewing FLEX magazine’s Allan Donnelly as well as Rich Gaspari on tonight’s show which airs live at 8pm EST. If you miss the live broadcast you can catch the replay here. Following my segment, Larry Pepe will interview UFC fighter, James Irvin who now holds the tying record for fastest knock out in the UFC (8 seconds).

Filed Under: News & Features

Blast from the Past – Name this IFBB Pro

April 6, 2008 by

I ran across this nifty ad from 1993. Can you identify which IFBB pro is rock’n the Hypertech clothing in the middle of this advertisement?

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1993 Ad for Hypertech clothing.
Filed Under: Ad Watch, News & Features

DXL Sexiest Spokesmodel Contest – Vote for your favorite

April 4, 2008 by

Canadian magazine DXL, is having a “sexiest spokesmodel” contest. A few friends of HARDBODY.com are in the contest. Visit their site and vote for your favorite.

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Filed Under: News & Features

IFBB Figure Pro Jennifer Gates – Muscle & Fitness Hers Cover Model

April 4, 2008 by

Congrats to Jenn Gates for gracing the cover of the new Muscle & Fitness Hers magazine. Jenn tells me she is excited and thankful for the cover. Those in attendance at the Pittsburgh Pro may see the latest cover model in the audience. You’ll also get a chance to see her in the swimsuit issue of FLEX magazine.

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Filed Under: News & Features

Another NPC competitor to appear on American Gladiators?

April 4, 2008 by

Yes, at least one more NPC figure competitor will make her way onto the show. Will she be a Gladiator or a contender? You’ll have to wait and see. The new cast is set to begin filming shortly.

Filed Under: News & Features

IFBB New York Pro Fitness

April 4, 2008 by

The complete IFBB New York Pro Fitness competitor list. The show will take place next Saturday in New York City. Who will win with last year’s champ, Tracey Greenwood not in the line up? I like Heidi’s chances for her first win. Heidi looked jacked at the West Palm Beach and the judges told her she was too hard. I thought it was the best her physique looked. As a shorter competitor, if she doesn’t come in harder than others she looks out of shape. I saw her the morning after the show and I think if she had shown up like that she may have won. She wasn’t quite as hard looking and much fuller/less drawn in.

I don’t think there will be a run away winner with this one. Ultimately, I think it will come down to who places higher in the physique rounds to put them on top. The more muscular women tend to prevail at this show. Kendra Elias has a great routine but her physique hinders her from moving up into top spots. I love Myriam’s routine but what she presented last year for a physique will keep her out of the top three qualifying Olympia spots. Oksana is still my favorite performer but will need to come in tighter than the Arnold to move up in the physique rounds. Michele Mayberry has a very balanced physique and I like what she brings to the stage. I look for her to qualify for her first Olympia.

I’m going with…
1. Heidi Fletcher
2. Oksana Grishina
3. Michele Mayberry
4. Nicole Duncan
5. Nicole Wilkins

Complete competitor list:
• Maggie Blanchard, USA
• Myriam Capes, Canada
• Jennifer Cassety, USA
• Nicole Duncan, USA
• Kendra Elias, USA
• Heidi Fletcher, USA
• Oksana Grishina, Russia
• Donna Louise Jones, Australia
• Michele Mayberry, USA
• Lisa McCormick, USA
• Tami Ough, USA
• Bethany Wagner, USA
• Trish Warren, USA
• Nicole Wilkins, USA

Who do you like for the win?

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Five Questions Cover Model Felicia Romero

April 3, 2008 by

I caught up with IFBB Figure Pro and rising fitness model, Felicia Romero on the eve of the big announcement. As reported here, Felicia was chosen as the cover model for the next issue of FLEX magazine. What did she think and what’s next for this Arizona hottie?

Two covers in 2008 and we’re only 1/3 of the way into the year. Congrats on the FLEX cover – how did you come to learn your shot was chosen as the cover?
Thank you so much…I am on cloud nine right now 🙂 I found out on Hardbody.com and FigureRX. Both had notified me that my cover was chosen. I was so honored to be chosen as the cover model for this year’s swimsuit issue…truly grateful.

How was shooting for this swimsuit issue any different from last year’s shoot?
This year’s shoot was a little easier for me because I knew what to expect. I knew Robert Reiff, the photographer, from last year’s shoot so I was much more comfortable and confident this year. The location was different as well… which was fun.

What advice to you have to the women out there when it comes to doing a photo shoot?
The advice that I have for women when it comes to doing a photo shoot would be to be CONFIDENT. You have to learn to know your body and what looks and feels good. Not every shot is going to be the best shot…so take the direction of the photographer. Also, being physically ready as well will help with the confidence. Stay away from salt, decrease carbs and increase cardio.

What goes through your head during a shoot – do you think of Bob Ross painting happy trees to bring out your best smile?
Haha…I don’t think of Bob Ross painting. lol. I imagine what I look like in that particular pose. I sort of have an out of body experience and become a different person for that period of shooting. It’s a lot of FUN!

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Bob Ross the master of Happy Trees.

When will we see you on stage next?
I am dieting right now for the Cal Pro in May. I am 8 weeks out so I am counting down the weeks till I will be on stage again.

Thanks Felicia!
Thank You

Filed Under: Interviews

Felicia Romero set to be next swimsuit cover model

April 3, 2008 by

It looks like the people have spoke and the next cover for FLEX will feature Felicia Romero. Congrats Felicia!

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Filed Under: News & Features

IFBB Houston Pro Show – Reminder

April 3, 2008 by

As a reminder to all pros as well as fans, the 2008 Houston Pro is on July 4 & 5th. The show will be held in Houston, Texas. If you have any questions related to the show the promoter’s information is below:

Lee Thompson/Khalid Tibari
Ph. 281-435-8804

Filed Under: Uncategorized

2008 Pittsburgh NPC & IFBB Pro Figure Information

April 3, 2008 by

FRIDAY, MAY 2 – MANDATORY CHECK-IN FOR ALL COMPETITORS!!
NO WEIGH-INS/CHECK-INS ON SATURDAY!!
All check-ins, meetings and competitions take place at Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in the Oakland section of Pittsburgh – 4141 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
• 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM – Mandatory Check-in/Weigh-in for ALL competitors.
• Competitors are NOT permitted to check-in/weigh-in on Saturday.

SATURDAY, MAY 3 – PREJUDGING – ALL COMPETITORS
• 8:00 AM – Competitor Meeting for NPC and IFBB Fitness and Figure competitors.
• 9:00 AM – Prejudging begins for Fitness and Figure.
• 11:00 AM – Competitor Meeting for Bodybuilders.
• Noon – Prejudging begins for Bodybuilders.
(Prejudging will begin at Noon or at the end of the Fitness/Figure Prejudging)

SATURDAY, MAY 3 – FINALS – ALL DIVISIONS
• 6:00 PM – Meeting for all competitors.
• 6:30 PM – Finals begins.

HOST HOTEL
• Holiday Inn Select University @ 412-682-6200 and ask for “NPC Competition” rate.
HOTEL IS FULL AT THIS TIME!
• Alternate hotels in the area: Hampton Inn at 412-681-1000 or Best Western at 412- 683-6100

IFBB Pro Figure Competitor List:
• Catherine Andersen
• Teresa Anthony
• Huong Arcinas
• Tivisay Briceno
• Heather Mae French
• Amy Fry
• Heather Green
• Donna Louise Jones
• Bernadette Galvan
• Shannon Meteraud
• Melissa Montanaro-Griffin
• Hazal Nelson
• Melissa Pearo
• Nicole Pitcher-Scott
• Rosa-Maria Romero
• Brenda Marie Smith
• Tammy Strome
• Laura Sutter
• Briana Tindell
• Nicole Wilkins

Filed Under: News & Features

FLEXonline.com Bikini Model Search – Vote for your favorite!

April 2, 2008 by

Check out the first round of model hopefuls on FLEXonline.com and vote for your favorite. Over 25 women entered the first round and more are sure to follow suit in the months ahead. Who do you like?

If you’re a model and missed the first round, there’s still a chance to enter each month. Visit the registration page for more information and how to enter.

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Filed Under: News & Features

New “Men’s Figure” division to be introduced in 2009

April 1, 2008 by

APRIL FOOLS!!!!

GOTCHA!!! 🙂

Subject – Press Release: Mens Pro and Amateur Figure Division

So I just read the release from the powers that be about the new division…. Men’s Figure.

I for one am so happy to see that the federation has stepped up and introduced this division. They are now giving us that are not as “genetically” blessed as guys like Ronnie and Jay, the opportunity to get on stage and be seen.

I for one plan on taking advantage of this opportunity.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

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