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Archives for June 2008

Houston Competitors Need Make Up & Hair Help?

June 30, 2008 by

If you’re stressing out about who will do your make up and help your hair in the Houston humidity, put your melon at ease. Hardbody.com approved make up artist, Laurie St. Michael will be at the show and she has a handful of openings left. If you haven’t met Laurie or worked with her yet, she is one of the best in the biz. Ms. St. Michaels has worked with a number of amateurs and pros with great success. She’s been a life saver and helped me out on a number of shoots. Laurie is a professional, will take very good care of you and goes above the call of duty for her clients. There is a distinct difference between someone who knows how to do make up and someone who thinks they do.

If you’re interested in Laurie’s services EMAIL HER HERE and tell her HARDBODY sent ya.

Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

Fitness Competitors – Care to explain?

June 30, 2008 by

I don’t get why the fitness competitors want to keep things a big secret when it comes to their routines. Are you afraid someone will steal one of your moves and do it better than you? Every time I ask a fitness competitor what they have in store for their routine, they act as if they are the founder of Coke and can’t reveal the secrets behind it. I mean really, is there THAT much at stake that if you let someone in on what you’re routine will be you’re going to ruin the element of surprise? I saw on a board this morning, my friend XYZ is really going to bring it in her new routine but I can’t give away any secrets. ERRkay, I’m sure she will break out some new move that we’ve never seen before, right? Or wait if you tell what you’re doing for your routine someone might copy it before the show. PAHLEASE. It’s the case with every fitness competitor – from Hendershott, Adela, Greenwood to the amateurs. They all want to keep the routine top secret. WHY? I understand not revealing a routine if you have something wild like Hendershott did when she had two women join her for her Olympia routine but what about the others?
That’s my rant for the week. Competitors / Choreographers care to chime in and shed some light?

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Photo of the Day – IFBB Figure Pro – Amy Peters

June 30, 2008 by

Amy is set to take the stage at the Houston Figure Pro show this weekend. Amy was last spotted with her fiancé, Steve, at the NPC Jr. California show a couple weeks ago. Ron Avidan informed me she was looking good and if you have the Yogi seal of approval, what more does one need? Here is a photo from last year’s Nationals where  Amy and I met up for our first shoot.

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Amy Peters in Dallas, Texas.
Filed Under: IFBB

Erin set to Rile things up in Houston

June 30, 2008 by

IFBB Fitness Pro, Erin Riley has been working her booty off in preparation for this weekend’s IFBB Houston Pro Show. I caught up with Erin days before she takes the stage. She’s been a pro for less than a year, earning her pro status at the 2007 Team Universe, but cracked the top 10 in her pro debut. With one sixth place finish under her pro belt; she’s looking to shake things up in the top 5.

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Erin Riley’s pro earning performance in 2007.

How do you feel going into the Houston Pro?
I feel great! I have really worked hard for this show, and I’m very excited to be getting back on stage again. I can’t wait until Saturday!

What are your goals for this show?
My goal for the Houston Pro is to bring my best package to date, physique-wise, and to nail my routines. That is really all I can ask of myself. The rest is up to the judges…although I wouldn’t mind a top 5 finish In fact, that would be amazing, especially considering the strength of the lineup.

What can fans expect from you at this show?
Fans can expect a more full and balanced physique, compared to my pro debut last year in Atlantic City. I’ve really worked hard in the past several months to try to bring up my physique to be competitive with the top fitness pros.

As far as my routines go, well, you will just have to wait and see. I can’t give away any secrets! Lets just say I plan to “rock” it on stage, and I think the fans will enjoy my performances.

What did have you done differently since your last show?
I took a good 6 months off from dieting since the Atlantic City Pro last September so that I could really focus on building some quality muscle and re-shaping my physique. Last year, I dieted for 7 months straight without any break, so the long off-season was a necessity. My diet is pretty similar to what I’ve used in the past. I still work with Robert Samborsky. He knows my body and how it responds. So we have the diet formula pretty much down to a T.

As far as training, I have added some new full body conditioning training that uses a lot of “strongman” type exercises. These workouts have really helped my routines and my overall conditioning tremendously, AND they’re a lot of fun!

What advice do you have for other women thinking of trying their hand in fitness but not sure they can put together a routine?
I always encourage women to give fitness a try because it is just so rewarding! I think the idea that you need to be able to do gymnastics to be successful in fitness scares some women off. But there are so many great pros that do not have a gymnastics background, and yet they still put together some amazing routines! My best advice is to find what you are good at, whether it be dance, gymnastics, aerobics, cheerleading, etc- and build your routine from that. If you are comfortable and having a blast with your routine performance, the audience will see that, and they will love it!

Thanks Erin and Good luck! If you like to see what Erin looked like one week out and the training video she was speaking about, you can see it all on her blog.

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Erin showing off her strength at the ’07 Team Universe.
Filed Under: IFBB

Lenay Hernandez Pro Debut at the Houston Pro

June 29, 2008 by

She’s making her pro debut just weeks after reaching IFBB status. Lenay Hernandez will be trekking from Florida to Houston this weekend. She lights up the stage with her smile and has a pleasing physique to match. Check out what the rookie had to say one week out from her big debut.

You just turned pro a couple months ago and now you’re making your debut. Are you ready?
I just turned pro at Jr. USAs and I feel ready. I can only compete against myself and have challenged myself to the next level. I’m bringing the best package that I have ever had.

What are your goals for this show?
My goal for this show is top 7. I am living my dream and just being on stage with other pros is still surreal to me. But one of my BIG Goals is to qualify for the big O!

Have you been working on your pull ups?
I do wide grip pull ups every time I train back so yes I have and I still do 20!!! How about you I?

I am still working with the assisted pull-up machine. Kind of like pull-up training wheels but thanks for asking L.

What’s your fascination with Peanut Butter?
Peanut butter!! I don’t know what it is but I love it. I can eat it with bananas, I love it in my oatmeal, my rice, or just a good tbsp. I love cashews too!!!

You’re not driving to Houston are you?
No, I’m not driving to Houston but if I absolutely had to I would. “They never said it would be easy, they just said it would be worth it.” I’m grateful to just be an IFBB PRO!!

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Lenay will be back on stage in a week, this time as a pro.
Filed Under: IFBB, Interviews

IFBB Pro Teresa Anthony burning it up

June 29, 2008 by

The stunning Teresa Anthony is heating things up on and off stage. She not only qualified for the 2008 Figure Olympia at the Pittsburgh Pro but she’s also burning things up with her modeling. She’s the cover model for the June 2008 issue of Southern Muscle Plus and will be featured in an upcoming issue of FLEX magazine. Props to Teresa!

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Current issue of Souther Muscle Plus.
Filed Under: Uncategorized

Jelena Abbou Makes 08 Debut

June 29, 2008 by

Hailing out of Hackensack, New Jersey, IFBB Figure Pro and top fitness model Jelena Abbou is ready. Ready for what? She’ll be taking the stage at the IFBB Houston Pro show with a refined physique. Jelena reached IFBB Pro status at the 2006 Team Universe contest and feels she is bringing her best look to date. She’s proven that her stunning looks have made her one of the top fitness models, now she’s determined to find the same success on stage. Her look could be one that is rewarded next weekend but we’ll have to wait a few more days to know for sure. I caught up with with Jelena for an update…

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Jelena will head to Houston on July 4th.

What are your goals for the Houston Pro Show?
I’m very excited about this show! I look my best ever. I’m really hoping to place in top 5 but Olympia qualification would be dream come true.

Do you feel like your physique fits in line more with the direction of figure this year?
Yes, defiantly. I’m so happy that they going this way. Hopefully judges like what I bring on stage this time.

What have you worked on in your off season?
I worked on my symmetry, bringing my legs down to match my upper body. So I train legs hard but not heavy and included some cardio in off season to. I’m also working with new trainer, Jeff Dwelle. I think he did awesome job with my training and nutrition. It worked very well for me and I’m extremely happy with results.

One thing something may not know about you?
I like watching food network, while I’m dieting, even during my cardio at home!

You’ve had tremendous success in fitness modeling, any tips for women who are looking to get into the modeling side of things?
Keep trying, never give up.

Good luck Jelena!

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Jelena at the 2007 Jan Tana Pro Figure.
Filed Under: IFBB, Interviews

Hardbody Photo of the Day – Rachel Cammon

June 27, 2008 by

The beautiful Rachel Cammon will be one to watch. She’s currently prepping for her second NPC figure show, the NPC Colorado State. Rachel has the look that will not only do well on stage but also in the modeling side of things. When we shot after her first show she literally stopped traffic. A poor observer on a motorcycle ran into the back of a car while we were rapping up the shoot. He was so busy looking at Rachel hanging from a tree limb that he failed to see the light had changed red. The guy was okay and more embarrassed than anything. Hey, can’t fault the guy for checking out a face and physique like this.

This is one of the many gym shots we took at Heather and Dylan Armbrust’s gym.

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Rachel Cammon strikes a pose at Armbrust Pro Gym in Denver, Colorado.
Filed Under: Uncategorized

The Three Stooges Head To Houston

June 26, 2008 by

They’ve been relatively quiet lately and one can assume they’re focused on next week’s Houston Pro Fitness show. Trixie has been trying to avoid getting caught in any monsoons or crashing her car. Shannon is hoping her hip doesn’t give out on her and can leave he walker at home. While Fletch is shopping for a new pair of shades that are well out of her normal budget range. The Houston Pro Fitness will be one to watch and we’ll all be patiently waiting to see which one of the three will prevail.

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Which of the three will place the highest?
Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

NPC Jr Nationals Review

June 26, 2008 by

Another 2008 NPC Jr. Nationals is in the books. We managed to avoid extreme heat and the gnarly locusts. Those who attended last year’s event know what I’m referring to with the fugly little creatures. Check out the review on bodybuilding.com.

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Filed Under: NPC

Celeste Gonzalez Heads to Houston

June 26, 2008 by

Celeste Gonzalez will make the long trip from the Canary Islands of Spain to the United States once again. This time she’s looking to show the judges her improvements since the California Pro Figure contest. Celeste will be competing in the IFBB Houston Pro Figure show next weekend and is excited to take the stage. I caught up with Celeste one week out from the contest…

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Celeste Conzalez the day after the California Pro.

What are your goals for the Houston Pro Show?
The Houston Pro is going to be one of the MOST IMPORTANT championships of my sports career. It’s all going to be new to me. I really feel like if it’s the first time I compete because I’m starting a new phase in my professional life. I have changed absolutely everything: my diet, my training, my suits, everything.

I would like the judges to see that I am really making an effort to improve and get to be in the track of the Figure that they demand for the competitors. It is very difficult to come from so far away and not obtain the desired results, that’s why I always have a POSITIVE ATTITUDE in every show. Every time I compete I learn so much and I try to make the best of myself.

My main objective in this occasion is to try and stand out amongst the ten first competitors. That would be like winning my personal target.

I know this will take time but I will keep on working hard to be in the top five some day.

How do people outside of the United States view figure competitions? Do they wish they could do it and like your look?
I think that people from outside the USA see us like an example to follow. Clearly, the Amreican competitors’ level is the best with no doubt, so the ones that come from outside, like me, should follow the example and their guidelines. It’s a privilege for me to compete in the United States and I wish to gain good qualifications and have the American level.

The physical criteria are different, because in Europe, for example, girls look different… they have more muscular harshness. I hope that one day this will change and the criteria are unified.

Did your manager eat all of his cheesecake?
Do you remember? I will never be able to forget those enormous and delicious cakes! We were all puzzled when we saw Jose buy all those pieces of cake! Although he didn’t eat them all, he enjoyed them just looking at them! I’m dying to eat one of those delicious pieces of cake after the Houston Pro!

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Celeste attacking the cakes in California.

Thanks Celeste and best of luck to you in Houston.

Filed Under: IFBB

Costa Confirms – NPC USAs It Is

June 26, 2008 by

Jamie Costa sat out the Jr. Nationals last weekend but will be returning to the stage at the 2008 NPC USA Championships. Jamie will be a top threat to the A Class figure as she’s streamlined her physique immensely from last year. She placed 11th at USAs in 2007 and in 08 she’s presented an entirely different look. Costa won the A Class in Charleston and aims to repeat the victory in a few weeks. As you can see from the photos below Jamie has a completely different look and the new version suits her well.

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Jamie Costa has her sights set on next month’s NPC USAs.

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Jamie at the 2007 USAs. As you can see she’s listened to the judges
and toned down the hardness for 2008.

Filed Under: NPC

Fresh Faces & One to Watch: Alicia Harris aka Smiley

June 25, 2008 by

Hailing out of Illinois, former track star Alicia Harris will be one to watch at the 2008 Figure Championships in Las Vegas. Miss Harris finished fourth in the D Class at last weekend’s NPC Jr. Nationals and looked great. She has an adorable face, contagious smile and a physique to match it. Alicia was a competitor who improved from Friday night’s prejudging into Saturday’s event. She was 6th going into the second day of prejudging but jumped to second in her two piece.

When I spoke with Alicia on Sunday I asked her if she had played sports because she has a very sporty look to her. Great skin, pretty face and athletic body – the kind you would see in a Nike commercial. Turns out my assessment or assumption, which ever you prefer, was correct. She ran the 200 & 400 meters with times faster than many men. Smiley was even the Ohio Valley Athlete of the year for indoor track during her junior year.

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Alicia with fellow competitor Gale Elle backstage in Chicago.

Alicia was kind enough to answer a few questions and share a bit more about herself:

Any nicknames?
Smiley, Sister (Brother calls me that), Renee, Penny (some I remind them of Janet Jackson-penny off of Good Times)

How did you get into competing in figure – what’s your background?
Jennifer Cowan, a Collegiate Track and Field teammate of mine is a figure/bodybuilding competitor and I felt that it was something that I could do well in. Also, working in fitness centers, I was surrounded by competitors.

Do you think you could beat me in the 200m?
I am pretty confident in my abilities, so yes, I think I could beat you (Isaac) in the 200 :)… Bring on the 400m that was my favorite!

What’s one thing people may not know about Alicia Harris but should?
I love football. If I was 100 pounds heavier maybe 7 inches taller and a MAN, I would be in the NFL!

What’s the secret to keeping your skin looking healthy while dieting?
I have always been blessed with good skin. I don’t really do anything special. I just wash make up off if I put it on.

Did your diet change from track and field to what you do as a figure competitor?
Diet from track and field was horrible! If I knew back then what I know now, I would have been in much better shape. During Track and Field it was the complete opposite of what I eat now, pasta and carbs for days!! In the past I wasn’t a big protein eater for some reason. I would shock my body with sugar though before my races, straight honey. 🙂

Favorite Supplement and why?
I don’t really take too many supplements to pick and choose favorites, but I do drink Ergo pharm’s Pineapple Mango Whey Protein drink, and I love it!

Thanks Alicia and good luck in Vegas!

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Alicia on stage in Chicago.
Filed Under: Interviews

Poll of the Week…

June 25, 2008 by

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Filed Under: Polls

Photo of The Day: Teresa & Catherine

June 25, 2008 by

A new feature I’m starting will be the “Photo of The Day”. I take thousands of photos at each show both on stage and off. Many times I don’t sort through a shoot for weeks, as those who have shot with me can attest to and still patiently (or not so patiently) waiting for their photos. I’m still getting caught up on shows from last year but this isn’t about hey look at how busy Isaac is (yes third person references are a sign of delusion) but a chance to feature images from various events and shoots that may or may not be seen elsewhere.

Today’s image was shot last Sunday near the NPC Jr Naitonals’ host hotel. I found a super cool spot in a parking garage that had some great natural lighting and worked perfectly. Two new IFBB Figure Pros, Teresa Gillian and Catherine Holland were my models for this shoot. My awesome make up artist Laurie St. Michael helped me out at the end of this shoot in styling their windblown hair. Laurie was busy with 8 million other things and when you see the work she does you know why she is in such high demand. Any whoo – this was Teresa’s first time shooting and she did a great job for her first time out. I haven’t sorted through the shoot yet but this is one of the photos we captured.

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Catherine Holland & Teresa Gillian all smiles after reaching IFBB Pro status.
Filed Under: Uncategorized

Khristy Poteat Graces Southern Muscle Plus Cover

June 25, 2008 by

I had a chance to meet up with Khristy Poteat at the 2008 NPC Jr. Nationals, where she was competing in Figure. She’s a super sweet girl that has an All-American, buff Barbiedoll look. Khristy was looking to improve on her Charleston showing (the Jr USA) and present a slightly different look. She definitely accomplished that goal. At the JR USAs Khristy was very well conditioned, however the look was too hard and she appeared too muscular for figure. Thursday night she told me she was coming in a bit softer and had worked on her posing. I could tell in her face that she wasn’t as hard as when I saw her in Charleston. It was a good thing for her and when she took the stage it was a much, much better look. Her posing was good this time and the softened look was in line with what the judges are rewarding. Despite not placing as high as she would have liked she was in good spirits after the show. What’s next for her? She hasn’t decided but she has a great physique and you can see her on the cover of the current Southern Muscle Plus issue. Congratulations on the cover Khristy!

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Khristy showin not only her cover but also her eye catching smile.
Filed Under: News & Features, NPC

You Might Be A Schmodel if…

June 24, 2008 by

I’ll put my list of “schmodel ifs” below but first let me clarify a bit more where I am coming from. Some of you reading this may be one and it’s okay if you are. It isn’t my bag and I always discourage women from going that route. Last Sunday, I’ve never seen so many schmodels in my life. It was rather disturbing to see hordes of tanned up women flexing and posing on couches, stairs and on all fours. I witnessed one woman say to a guy – hey, hey no up the skirt shots as he videotaped her doing calf raises on the stairs.

My Schmodel Profile is as such…
A woman who, generally speaking, has a large fan base that typically comes from her online presence. She’ll usually shoot with any one with a camera and throws a few bucks at her. The typical schmodel will flex for the camera at the drop of a hat. Why? I’m not sure why women do this but if any of the schmodels reading this care to enlighten me I’d enjoy hearing why. Is it because you don’t feel you can get into magazines so you stay online, build a fan base and run a member’s section? I get that and again if it’s your bag good for you. I still firmly believe fitness and figure women should not be hitting front double biceps and doing calf raises for a random dude with a video camera.

You might be a schmodel if…
…you’ve hit a front double bicep in the lobby of a competition.
…you’ve shown your calf when asked by a random stranger.
…you’ve flexed for a guy with a camera phone.
…you complain that you never get any exposure in the magazines to the 300lb man video taping you doing calf raises.
…you’ve signed your own photo to a guy with a trapper keeper.
…you’re reading this getting pissed at the term because you’ve done the above mentioned.

If you’re a female bodybuilder, I understand flexing in the lobby and for photos because that’s what you do in competitions. I’m mainly referring to the fitness, figure and non-competitors who continually perform these random acts of weirdness. I had four people comment about the term “schmodel” in Chicago after posting it in an earlier blog. It’s okay if you’re a schmodel but you have no room to piss and moan about not getting any coverage beyond the muscle worship sites. 🙂 Lighten up people if you’re a schmoe or a schmodel it’s not me looking down on you.

Filed Under: News & Features

IFBB PRO Kristal Richardson – IRONMAN HARDBODY

June 24, 2008 by

Look for the August 2008 issue of IRONMAN magazine which should be hitting shelves soon. Arnold is on the cover, which usually leads to higher sales and bodes well for this issue’s HARDBODY. IFBB Figure Pro and spokes model for BodyWell Nutrition, Kristal Richardson has six full page photos in this August issue and she looks great.

I had the chance to shoot with Kristal a few years ago and we shot again at the West Palm Beach show last year. It’s been fun to see Kristal improve as a model and she really can turn it on for the camera. I look back on the photos we took the first time and man some were terrible but some were good. The first time we shot it was only her second shoot and admittedly I was still shooting like I was blind. Kidding. She’s become a great model by shooting with top photographers over the last couple of years and worked at her modeling skills which has made her a better model. I have to remind myself of the same thing, the more I shoot the better I get or at least in theory. Kristal is a beautiful woman and a total sweetheart. Anyone who has met her knows she’s a pleasure to be around and her husband Tom is a stand up guy. A husband and wife team that are good people.

Below is a photo from the magazine, the photos were taken be Michael Neveux of IRONMAN magazine.

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One of six photos feature in the August Ironman.

Congratulations Kristal. You may see Kristal working the BodyWell Nutrition booth at various shows and when I spoke with her last month she had her sights set on the Jacksonville Pro show.

Filed Under: News & Features

VPX Sponsors the Performance Ready Team

June 23, 2008 by

IFBB Pro and coach of the Performance Ready Team has announced that VPX Sports Nutrition will sponsor her team. The PR Team calls Denver, Colorado home and has some of the top women in the industry on the roster. VPX will also sponsor the PR Fitness and Figure Training Camps as well as the PR seminars. The PR Team will endorse VPC products, represent them at national trade shows and competitions, and use Meltdown® as their official fat-burner.

For additional information on The Performance Ready Team visit www.performanceready.com.

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Filed Under: News & Features

Go Behind the Scenes at the NPC Jr. Nationals

June 23, 2008 by

Check out all the photos from the NPC Jr. Nationals on bodybuilding.com. A few of the backstage photos from the show. This show is one of the best to be able to go in and out of the press pit and get good backstage photos during the night show. Everyone is a little more laid back and relaxed at the evening events.

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Mary having some fun before going on stage.

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Nita Marquez smiling for the camera backstage.

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The six overall figure winners backstage.

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A look from behind the stage during a posing routine.

Filed Under: News & Features, NPC

A Closer look at Catherine Holland – New IFBB Figure Pro

June 23, 2008 by

Catherine Holland stood out at the 2008 NPC JR USA, where she won her class in figure but missed snagging a pro card. I felt she could of have turned pro there without much argument. She proved my sentiments to be correct when she took the stage at last weekend’s 2008 NPC Jr Nationals and not only one her class but also nabbed one of the four IFBB Figure pro cards. Catherine has a very sexy physique and quite confidence on stage. I had the opportunity to shoot with her the day after the show and saw another side to he bag of tricks… her mad modeling skills. Catherine knows how to work the camera and this isn’t something everyone is good at. It takes practice and skills to be a good model and it was clear she wasn’t a rookie to the lense. Don’t be surprised if you see Catherine in a number of publications strutting her stuff in the months ahead.

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Catherine Holland shows off her hard work.

Catherine was kind enough to share a bit more about herself with HARDBODY.com. She’ll be taking the rest of the year off from competing as the Jr Nationals marked her third show of the year. This Oregonian (for now – she’ll be moving soon) will be absent from the pro stage in 2008 but it watch for her to light it up in her debut next year.

You’ve competed in 11 NPC shows, how did you get your start in figure:
I was inspired by another young woman at my gym that trained for Figure competitions. After being an athlete for years and always looking for new outlets of fitness, I decided to take my training to the next level and compete in Figure. Having always been naturally inclined to watching what I eat and eating healthfully, competing was a natural fit!  In addition to this, I loved the toned look of the Figure athlete and I felt my physique had the potential to be a good match for the sport. I was so inspired and empowered by taking my physique to levels of conditioning I never thought possible, that I knew this was something I would doing for awhile.

Favorite past time when not lifting weights or cooking chicken:
Traveling and visiting new places, walks to Starbucks and golfing with my boyfriend, quality time with friends and family.

What’s your favorite supplement:
I am currently an ON/ABB Reps and Sets Sponsored Athlete, so I use a lot of their Whey Gold Standard Caramel Toffee Fudge Flavor and Diet Turbo Teas…SO good!

Guilty pleasure:
Massages and Adam’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory!

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Catherine points to the bizarre hat and gloves that were on our shoot location.
Filed Under: Interviews, NPC

2008 NPC JR Nationals Winners

June 21, 2008 by

Congratulations to all the winners at tonight’s NPC JR Nationals contest. Below is a flash report of the winners for the women:

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The six new female pros (there’s one more but missed the photo)

Fitness –
Short Class: Stefanie Irick and overall champion
Medium: Melissa Frederick
Tall: Betsy McNally Harris

Figure –
A Class – Sue Upson and new IFBB Pro
B Class – Julie Kulla and new IFBB Pro & Overall winner
C Class – Teresa Gillian and new IFBB Pro
D Class – Terri Turner
E Class – Catherine Hollan and new IFBB Pro
F Class – Jennifer Martin

Female Bodybuilding –
Middleweight – Heather Bayer
Light Heavyweight – Justine Dohring
Heavyweight – Amber Defrancesco and Overall Winner

Congrats to all! Today the vast majority of the women looked better than on Friday night. Most likely it was because they had some carbs. Ladies talk to the judges and get feedback. Many of the women I saw compete at JR USAs who competed here looked much better.

Filed Under: NPC

NPC Jr Nationals Prejuding Photos

June 21, 2008 by

All the photos from last night are now posted on bodybuilding.com in the NPC JR Nationals section. There are shots of all competitors. Check back as more are added throughout the weekend
Check out the over 2,000 photos here.

Filed Under: NPC

NPC JR Nationals Update

June 20, 2008 by

Day one is in the books and the competition will be some of the toughest the NPC figure has seen. Last night the men and women weighed in and had the ladies heights were checked. You will see a number of women moving around in height classes from last year. This year the classes were changed in an effort to even the numbers out, particularly the A and F classes. We’re still getting a feel for how this plays out on the National stage.

The schmonation is running strong and you will see a variety of the individuals I wrote about in my photographers post. Another item I’ll be writing about later is something I hadn’t given much thought, until last night. The “schmodels”. These are the women who thrive off the attention of posing, flexing, smiling for anyone who has a camera. Ladies if you’re a fitness or figure competitor and you’re flexing your biceps for a dude with a camera phone – YOU’RE A SCHMODEL. I’ll save this diatribe for another time.

The weather in Chicago is nice, not too hot and the crazy bugs from last year are no where in sight. I ran into a few familiar faces and some new ones yesterday. When I met up with the PR Team they informed their fearless leader, IFBB Carla Sanchez, was not let on the plane with them because she didn’t have the right credit card that the ticket was booked with. What a load of poo. The women forged ahead and were sporting matching outfits for their photo shoot with JM Manion.

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JM photographing the Peformance Ready girls.

It as amusing to watch traffic come to a hault and random people stop to take photos of the scene. All five women looked great and in a conversation with Jamie Meade, who is making her first trip to the national scene, I was reminded of something. No matter where you finish in this show you should be proud and happy to be on stage. Why? She works with handicapped people every day who can’t walk or have disabilities that prevent them from doing every day things. I love her outlook and she reminded me to not loose sight of the big picture.

Then there is Liza Kampstra. Liza will be a force in the B Class and one to watch. She had some fun with the group and one point sported a blonde wig. Her altered ego – “Larrissa” came out for a few shots and it was comedy at it’s finest.

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“Larrissa” wanted no photos from the paparazzi until he she was ready. 🙂
Just kidding it was actually hilarious.
At check-in I caught up with a number of women, all of which mentioned HARDBODY.com. Thanks for the props and thanks to all of you for visiting regularly.I “officially” met Khristy Poteat and we chatted a bit. She tells me she is coming in a bit softer than JR USAs and I could tell in her face she wasn’t as hard and drawn in, this should suit her well. Very stunning woman and watch for her to move up from her last placing

Sara Hurrle was trying to stay calm over the airline loosing her luggage. This is Sara’s first national show and looking to keep her winning ways alive in the D Class.

One woman I’ve know for a few years and honestly did not recognize her was Betsy Harris. Betsy ain’t play’n no games and came to do damage in Chitown. She competes in fitness and the last couple of shows hasn’t fair as well as she would like due to her conditioning or lack their of. I can tell just from her face that this won’t be an issue for her this show. I’ve never seen her so lean and if she can muster up enough energy to bring the noise to the stage tonight, WATCH OUT! I’m anxious to see how she looks on stage as her routines are solid and with a conditioned physique she puts herself in the mix to turn pro.

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Betsy Harris leaner than ever and ready to take the stage.

I had a chance to chat with Paola Almerico and her husband Nelson a bit yesterday. Two good peeps who are always fun to be around. Paola just finished shooting for OXYGEN magazine in Canada. The husband/wife duo prepped two figure competitors for this show. You may recall, they worked with the overall champ from JR USAs, Lenay Hernandez. Paola was chatting with a variety of people including “the man with the big book” John Stutz. She also smiled pretty for a dead ringer of IFBB Pro Mary Lado. Yes, there is a Mary Lado lookalike at the show and she calls Dallas home. Monique “momo” is stunning and you have to do a double take when you see her as she is a spitting image of Mary. Keep an eye on her in the coming shows, she isn’t competing in this show but is a striking woman.

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Poala with Momo, the Mary Lado lookalike.

I’m off to get my cardio on and hit the second check-in that will be held at 9am this morning. I’ll squeeze in a couple photo shoots before tonight’s prejudging which starts at 5pm. Tonight it’s all about the women and good luck to all of them.

Filed Under: News & Features, NPC

Watch Out Chicago The Eagle has Landed – JR Nationals Preview

June 19, 2008 by

I survived the flight from Denver to Chicago and happy to report I have a good internet connection from the hotel. I’ll be doing most of my blogging for the show on bodybuilding.com’s BodySpace this weekend. Check back for more updates on the things going down in Chitown.

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My NPC Jr. Nationals preview is up and I know I left a few people off and if you were one of them don’t take it personally. There are close to 200 figure competitors in this show. I’ll be photographing the weigh-in/check-in tonight so look for some photos from that later on. This should be a kick ass show.

Filed Under: News & Features, NPC

Houston Pro Competitor List – 49 Strong!

June 19, 2008 by

The IFBB is one competitor shy of hitting the FIFTY – yes 50 – competitor mark. There are currently 24 Figure competitors and 25 Fitness competitors on the official IFBB Houston Pro lists. I would not want to be a judge at this show. One look at the figure line up and you’ll know what I’m talking about. Below are the updated lists from the IFBB Professional League Office:

IFBB HOUSTON PRO FIGURE:
1    Abbou, Jelena    USA
2    Archibold, Elisha    USA
3    Arcinas, Houng    USA
4    Awad, Jane    Canada
5    Benson, Natalie    USA
6    Bock, Susanne    Germany
7    Briceno, Tivisay    USA
8    Chin, Krissy    USA
9    Dumon, Andrea    USA
10    French, Heather Mae    USA
11    Galvan, Bernadette    USA
12    Georges, Nancy    USA
13    Gonzalez, Celeste    Spain
14    Greenwood, Tracey    USA Tracey as we all know will be in Fitness
15    Hernandez, Lenay    USA
16    John, Candice    Trinidad
17    King, Carol    Barbados
18    Mello, Patricia    Brazil
19    Mertl, Petra    USA
20    Mullarkey-Barringer, Karen    USA
21    Pearo, Melissa    USA
22    Peters, Amy    USA
23    Romero, Felicia    USA
24    Seiwald, Liane    USA
25    Steffens, Jessica    USA

IFBB HOUSTON PRO FITNESS:
1    Blanchard, Maggie    USA
2    Capes, Myriam    Canada
3    Cassetty, Jennifer    USA
4    Dey, Shannon    USA
5    Duncan, Nicole    USA
6    English, Angela    USA
7    Fletcher, Heidi    USA
8    Gainey, Bethany    USA
9    Groshek, Susan    USA
10    Haddad, Amy    USA
11    Hughes, Liza    USA
12    Jackson, Laticia    USA
13    Marquez, Lisbeth    Venezuela
14    McCormick, Lisa    USA
15    Meteraud, Shannon    USA
16    Newton, Leslie Rae    USA
17    Redding, Traci    USA
18    Riley, Erin    USA
19    Rohm, Jessica    USA
20    Rojas, Kristina    USA
21    Rollolazo, Nicole    USA
22    Villa Nelson, Amy    USA
23    Warren, Trish    USA
24    Wig, Stacy    USA
** ADD TRACEY GREENWOOD TO FITNESS LIST

Filed Under: IFBB

Felicia Romero & JM Manion on Fitness & Figure Talk Radio

June 18, 2008 by

The best online radio show for fitness and figure competitors hands down can be found on Bodysport.com. Hosts Elaine and Terry Goodlad are both very good at interviewing their guests and do an excellent job with each show. This week’s show they brought on one of the industry’s veterans, JM Manion. JM cleared the air on what his management company does for women and the benefits of being under a management contract. He also discussed how the IRON SIRENS comic book came to fruition and what’s in store for the next issues. IFBB Figure sensation and rising star in fitness modeling, Felicia Romero joined the radio show to discuss a variety of things. I was very impressed with Felicia’s demeanor on the show, she was poised and very confident. It’s no easy feat to come across that professional when on a radio show. Felicia talked about modeling, competing, dieting, home buying tips and more. This is one woman who should be under an edorsement contract and I’d highly encourage any one looking for a true spokesperson to get in touch with JM and sign her. You’ll be hard pressed to find someone who is young (she’s 25), articulate, professional and able to not only compete but also model. She’s going places and it is much deserved. Check out her new web site at feliciaromero.com. This is definitely a show worth listening to and I’m sure you’ll gain a newfound respect for both JM and Felicia after listening to the show.

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Felicia the day after her win at the 2008 IFBB Cal Figure Pro.
Filed Under: Interviews, News & Features

How Bright is the Future for the Stooges?

June 18, 2008 by

J.M. Manion caught up with two of the three stooges last weekend at the NPC Atlantic States. Tracey Greenwood and Heidi Fletcher want make it clear to Shemp err I mean Shannon Meteraud, Black Mamba Warren and the others – their future looks bright in Houston. Word on the street is that they are sporting shades wherever they go… The gym, saving dogs on the side of the road, grocery shopping and various other events. Check out some of the photos of the two.

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Heidi and Trixie sporting the shades.

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Fletch not amused by Greenwood’s choke hold.

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Fletcher shows off her rear naked joke.
Greenwood asks, “what the hell is this?”

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Heidi worried she may have injured the Doc.

Dr. Greenwood will be attending the NPC JR. Nationals this weekend working the GNC booth. Trixie tells me since their encounter in New York, Fletch has been mum and flying under the radar. Look for the buff woman wearing shades and a GNC shirt if you’re attending the event in Chicago.
Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

Pink Taco – A must stop while in Vegas for the NPC USAs

June 18, 2008 by

Many of you will be making the trip to Las Vegas, Nevada next month for the NPC USA Championships. Aside from taking in all the competition that will heat up Sin City on July 25 & 26th, there is one place to add to your “to do list”.

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Visit the Hard Rock Cafe and enjoy a meal or margarita at the Pink Taco. Last year myself along with JM Manion, John Tuman, Sonia Adock, Mary Jo Cooke, Ron Avidan, George Farah, Lee Thompson and a few enjoyed a mexican feast there and it was quite delicious. There were a number of competitors who were spotted at the fine establishment as well. JM captured a shot of Liza Kampstra (and in the background you can also spot Jacqui Skibba) enjoying a ginormous margarita. The photo is featured on the Pink Taco web site under the “Ladies of the Pink Taco” in the Fun section. Liza and Jacqui will both be competing this weekend at the NPC Jr. Nationals and I’m told have forgone the margs until after the show.

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Liza Kampsta aka “Q.o.t.s” on the Pink Taco Website.
Filed Under: NPC

Freaky Flexibility

June 18, 2008 by

When it comes to performances that showcase amazing flexibility, the IFBB has Stacy Simons and Kendra Elias. Anyone who has seen their fitness routines knows what I am talking about and both are impressive. Check out what this law student competing in “Britian has Talent”, does to wow the judges with her flexibility.

No word from Stacy on if she’ll be integrating any of these moves into her Atlantic City fitness routine. Dr. Greenwod would try it but she may end up needing to borrow Shannon Meteraud’s walker if she did.

Filed Under: News & Features

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Disclaimer: Reader discretion advised, please consult your physician before beginning any exercise or diet program.