Archives for September 2013

Nicole Wilkins Seeks Redemption at The Olympia


Nicole Wilkins has positioned herself as one of the leading ladies in the IFBB Pro Figure division. She’s won the Arnold three times and the Olympia twice. Many pundits say you’re only as good as your last show and that may be true for some but don’t label Wilkins with that cliché.  She’s coming off a third place finish at the New York Pro (her lowest placing since 2009) but if you’ve followed her training and online updates since that dreary May Day, you know she’s on a path of redemption.

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Nicole has switched things up heading into this year’s Olympia contest. She’s switched trainers, which is always challenging for any competitor. Competitors build lasting relationships with their coach/trainer over the years and changing that can often get them out of their comfort zone, in a good way. Change is often necessary but uncomfortable.

If you follow the world of Figure you’ve seen Nicole a bit uncomfortable on stage lately. When she’s not on point her confidence and demeanor changes on stage. Don’t bet on seeing that look next week at the 10th annual Figure Olympia. Nicole is determined, focused and on track to reclaim the title she’s held twice before.

FitnessRX for Women will be following Nicole in a five part video series as she heads into her 6th Olympia. She talks about changes she’s made and how she’s bringing a new physique to the stage. The video series will give fans a look at some of what is in store for the redefined Nicole.

View photos of Nicole from various shows throughout here career here. Follow this series and more with Nicole on FitnessRxWomen.com.



2013 Figure Olympia Preview, Poll and Predictions


We’re one week away from the 10th annual Figure Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event has been won by five different women with two of the champions back looking for another win. Erin Stern will be back to defend her title and will be looking for her third Olympia crown. Nicole Wilkins is determined to bounce back from a string of lackluster showings to win her third Olympia title. Erin and Nicole have gone back and forth for the top spot since 2009.

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Jennifer Gates was victorious in 2008 and before that Jenny Lynn held the title for two years in a row. The inaugural champ, Davana Medina won the Figure Olympia title in 2003, 2004 and 2005. We could see a 6th title holder but it will be a hard fought battle to defeat Wilkins or Stern.

Candice Keene has been on a winning path this year defeating Stern at the Figure International and Wilkins at the New York Pro. She poses the most likely threat to disrupt the duo. You can’t rule out Mallory Haldeman, Candice Lewis and Heather Dees at making a run for the title as well.  That’s not to say that any one of the 18 competitors in this year’s show couldn’t crack the top six but based on prior shows these women are the most likely to be in the mix. Many women are coming off wins but when you break down the big shows, you find it’s a whole different animal.

Read the complete preview on all the competitors and the top six predictions.

Who do YOU think will win the 2013 Figure Olympia? Cast your vote below and share the poll with your friends so they can vote as well. Powered by BSN.

hardbody-poll

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For more information on the Olympia visit MrOlympia.com. Use the hashtag #olympia for all your social media posts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and twitter @hardbodynews.



2013 Bikini Olympia Poll, Preview & Predictions


The 2013 Bikini Olympia will take place for the fourth time in Las Vegas, Nevada. Three different champions have been crowned but will history repeat itself? Four of the top six from 2012 will not be in this year’s line-up which leave the door wide open for the hungry field of competitors.

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The 2011 champ and last year’s runner-up, Nicole Nagrani has opted out to focus on her education. It’s the first time she hasn’t been in the line-up since the inaugural Bikini Olympia in 2010. It’s worth noting because not only did she win the title in 2011 but she’s been in the top spots every year since the show’s inception. Dianna Dahlgren announced she was hanging up her heels earlier this year. Jaime Baird has decided not to compete and will sit out the big show for the first time as well. The first Bikini Olympia champ, Sonia Gonzales is expecting her first child.

Who will step up into the top six. There are some likely veterans who will contend for the top spots but there are also a few rookies who could shake things up. Ashley Kaltwasser and Courtney King have been on the fast track to the top this season. Don’t rule out Yeshaira Robles and Justine Munro to make their presence known next week. The field of 22 will all be gunning for that number one spot.

Read the complete preview on all the competitors and a few fun predictions here.

Vote for you want to see win the 2013 Bikini Olympia. Powered by BSN.

hardbody-poll

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For more information on the Olympia visit MrOlympia.com. Use the hashtag #olympia for all your social media posts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and twitter @hardbodynews.



2013 Olympia Competitor Lists


The 2013 Olympia will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 26-29th. The lists are out and while some qualified for the big show not all will be competing. The official competitor lists with the 131 competitors who are in the event can be found below.

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Notables not competing on the women’s front are Tina Durkin in Fitness. Tina was third last year but due to an injury she’ll be sitting this one out en route to a recovery.

2013 Fitness Olympia Competitors (14)
1. Michelle Blank
2. Myriam Capes
3. Bethany Cisternino
4. Regiane Da Silva
5. Nicole Duncan
6. Ryall Graber-Vasani
7. Oksana Grishina
8. Fiona Harris
9. Tanji Johnson
10. Whitney Jones
11. Diana Monteiro
12. Natalie Planes
13. Trish Warren
14. Adela Garcia

The Bikini division might have the biggest shake up in terms of top competitors sitting out this year for various reasons. Four of the top six from 2012 will not be back this year. Last year’s runner-up and the 2011 champ, Nicole Nagrani will not be in the line-up for the first time since its inception. She opted out to focus on her education, Dianna Dahlgren announced her retirement at the end of last year. Jaime Baird has decided not to compete and Sonia Gonzales is expecting her first child.

2013 Bikini Olympia Competitors (22)
1. Stacey Alexander
2. Gigi Amurao
3. Jennifer Andrews
4. Jessica Arevalo
5. Narmin Assria
6. Tiffany Boydston
7. Michelle Brannan
8. Candice Conroy
9. Lacey Deluca
10. Tawna Eubanks
11. Ashley Kaltwasser
12. Courtney King
13. Vladimira Krasova
14. Amanda Latona
15. Ashley LeBlanc
16. Polliana Moss
17. Justine Munro
18. Noemi Olah
19. India Paulino
20. Yeshaira Robles
21. Anna Virmajoki
22. Nathalia Melo

2013 Ms. Olympia Competitors (13)
1. Jennifer Abshire
2. Rita Bello
3. Juanita Blaino
4. Brigita Brezovac
5. Tina Chandler
6. Anne Freitas
7. Monique Jones
8. Tammy Jones
9. Debi Laszewski
10. Cathy LeFrancois
11. Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia
12. Alina Popa
13. Iris Kyle

2013 Women’s Physique Olympia Showdown (16)
1. Dana Linn Bailey
2. Tycie Coppett
3. Valerie Gangi
4. Karin Hobbs
5. Sara Hurrle
6. Julianna Malacarne
7. Tamee Marie
8. Patricia Mello
9. Karina Nascimento
10. Venus Nguyen
11. Mindi O’Brien
12. Jamie Pinder
13. Jillian Reville
14. Mikaila Soto
15. Sabrina Taylor
16. Toni West

2013 Figure Olympia (18)
1. Kati Alander
2. Dana Ambrose
3. Swann Cardot
4. Heather Dees
5. Allison Frahn
6. Mallory Haldeman
7. Candice John
8. Candice Keene
9. Candice Lewis
10. Kamla Macko
11. Camala Rodriquez
12. Kim Sheppard
13. Genn Strobo
14. Alea Suarez
15. Ann Titone
16. Natalie Waples
17. Nicole Wilkins
18. Erin Stern

2013 Men’s Physique Olympia Showdown (16)
1. Matthew Acton
2. Michael Anderson
3. Tyler Anderson
4. Anton Antipov
5. Jeremy Buendia
6. Alex Carneiro
7. Matt Christianer
8. Steve Cook
9. Sadik Hadzovic
10. Stephen Mass
11. John Nguyen
12. Jason Poston
13. Jeff Seid
14. William Sillivan
15. Mark Anthony Wingson
16. Tory Woodward

2013 212 Olympia Showdown (12)
1. Sami Al Haddad
2. Troy Alves
3. Al Auguste
4. Guy Cisternino
5. Eduardo Correa
6. Mark Dugdale
7. Kevin English
8. David Henry
9. Tricky Jackson
10. Raul Carrasco Jimenez
11. Jose Raymond
12. James Flex Lewis

2013 Mr. Olympia (20)
1. Baitollah Abbaspour
2. Lionel Beyeke
3. Evan Centopani
4. Brandon Curry
5. Jay Cutler
6. Mamdouh Elssbiay “Big Ramy”
7. Toney Freeman
8. Kai Greene
9. Phil Heath
10. Dexter Jackson
11. Johnnie Jackson
12. Steve Kuclo
13. Victor Martinez
14. Cedric McMillan
15. Essa Obaid
16. Robert Piotrkowicz
17. Shawn Rhoden
18. Branch Warren
19. Roelly Winklaar
20. Dennis Wolf

For more information on the Olympia visit MrOlympia.com. Use the hashtag #olympia for all your social media posts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and twitter @hardbodynews.



Olympia Interview with India Paulino


India Paulino has found a winning look and already has the Bikini International crown to her credit this year. Now she has her sights on the biggest show of them all… the Olympia. David Robson from Bodybuilding.com caught up with the Floridian to gain some insight into her contest prep.

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Paulino tells Robson that she’s put her career as a police officer on hold and that she’s been traveling quite a bit. When it comes to food prep, India shares that she eats “a little less food” for a contest and has adapted clean eating as a lifestyle.  India goes on to say, “As far as training for a show, I would say I’m intense.” You learn about her favorite BSN supplements, what she’s been training since the Arnold and more.

Read the entire Olympia Interview with India Paulino here.

You can meet India at this year’s Olympia Expo where she’ll be working the BSN booth and of course catch her on stage as she attempts to dethrone Nathalia Melo for the Bikini Olympia title. Follow all the coverage on social media with the hashtag #olympia.



2013 Olympia Facts & Figures


The 2013 Olympia will be held in less than two weeks! Over 100 of the world’s buffest men and women have qualified to compete in what many call the “Super Bowl” of Bodybuilding. The event attracts thousands of fans from across the globe and continues to grow every year. The event will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 26-29, 2013. For more info on the Olympia visit MrOlympia.com.

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The Hardbody Facts & Figures:
• 49th Olympia

• $1 million dollars in prize money

• 8 Different Titles / 8 Divisions

• 131 – Total number of Competitors in the 2013 Olympia

• 64% of the total line-up are women

• 24% of the total prize money will go to the women

• 83 Women Total – Competitor Numbers by Divisions

  • 18 – Figure
  • 14 – Fitness
  • 22 – Bikini
  • 13 – Women’s Bodybuilding
  • 16 – Women’s Physique

• Total Olympia Prize Money for the Women: $240,000

  • Ms. Olympia: $60,000
  • Fitness: $60,000
  • Figure: $60,000
  • Bikini: $40,000
  • Women’s Physique Showdown: $20,000

• 36% of the total lineup are Men

• 76% of the Prize Money will go to the men

• 48 Men Total – Competitor numbers by division

  • 20 – Mr. Olympia
  • 12 – 212
  • 16 – Men’s Physique

• Total Olympia Prize Money for the Men: $760,000

  • Mr. Olympia: $675,000
  • 212 Showdown: $65,000
  • Men’s Physique Showdown: $20,000

• 8 -  Most Olympia titles – Tie – Lenda Murray, Iris Kyle, Lee Haney & Ronnie Coleman

• 4th Year for the Bikini Olympia – a new winner each year

• Sonia Gonzalez was the first Bikini Olympia winner – she will not compete this year. She’s expecting her first child.

• 1st – This will be the first Women’s and Men’s Physique Showdowns

• 7 – Most Fitness Olympia wins – Adela Garcia

• 10th Anniversary for Figure Olympia – 5 women have won the title

Use #olympia for all your social media content, this includes twitter, facebook, instagram and others.  Visit us on Facebook.com/hardbodynews and follow us on twitter at hardbodynews.

 



Free Webcast of the Joe Weider 2013 Olympia


The Olympia will be held September 26-29, 2013, in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Olympia weekend is one of the biggest events in the world of bodybuilding and fitness. This year’s prize money has reached an all-time hight of $1 million dollars. Thousands of people will travel from across the globe to witness this historic event. If you’re unable to attend the Olympia but would still enjoy seeing the pro events, Bodybuilding.com and the event organizers have you covered. Bodybuilding.com will webcast live (AND FREE) September 27-28, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Pacific Time (9:30 ET) both Friday and Saturday nights.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Bodybuilding.com Announces Exclusive 2013 Olympia Webcast
Boise, ID – September 6, 2013 – Bodybuilding.com, the Internet’s most-visited bodybuilding and fitness site and largest online retailer of nutritional supplements, will once again offer a free worldwide webcast of Joe Weider’s 2013 Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend, presented by MuscleTech and BSN.

With one of the best lineups of athletes in the contest’s 49-year history and more than $1 million in prize money, the 2013 Olympia is a must-see event. Thanks to the live webcast, everyone can tune in – for free!

Bodybuilding.com will webcast live September 27-28, 2013, from the Orleans Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada beginning at 6:30 p.m. Pacific Time (9:30 ET) both Friday and Saturday nights.

The live stream kicks off Friday with an insightful pre-show hosted by veteran sports broadcaster Dave Farra (SyFy, Fox Sports, NBC) providing the play-by-play of the competition, as well as panel hosting with some of the leading experts in the industry. Returning for the 2013 broadcast will be one of the most trusted voices in the bodybuilding industry, Larry Pepe (Fox Sports), in addition to physique coach Dr. Layne Norton and special celebrity guests Lou Ferrigno and 8-Time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman.

Filling out the robust lineup will be top female physique experts Felicia Romero and Carla Sanchez, who will provide expert insight into the women’s competitions of figure, fitness, physique, bikini and bodybuilding. Whether you’ve been at every Olympia, or are tuning in for the first time, this year’s show promises to deliver an insider’s perspective with two exciting days of coverage of the biggest bodybuilding competition of the year!

The winners of the 2013 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards (26 different awards, including Brand of the Year, Supplement of the Year, etc.) will be announced onstage during the live event each night, and therefore viewable via the webcasts. The Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards have set the standard for recognition of the best products and brands in the fitness and supplement industry for the past nine years.

On Saturday, September 28th, the webcast coverage culminates with bodybuilding’s biggest annual show: The Mr. Olympia Finals. Reigning champion Phil Heath will battle to defend his title against fierce challengers, including 4-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, and the always formidable & mysterious Kai Greene and the reigning Arnold Classic Champion Dexter Jackson.

The Saturday coverage will also include the beautifully sculpted women of the Figure Olympia and the men’s 212 Showdown (men’s bodybuilding division under 212 lbs in weight). Pre-show discussion and post-show interviews, as well as the annual Fan’s Choice Award, will also be made available thanks to Travis Chapman.

Stay tuned for details and more 2013 Olympia Weekend coverage available soon at Bodybuilding.com!

Bodybuilding.com offers more than 13,000+ health & fitness supplements and accessories to help more than 10 million people every month achieve their health, fitness and appearance goals, as well as more than 35,000 pages of FREE information, including more than 20,000 articles and videos, expert online trainers, and new content added daily!

For more information: http://www.bodybuilding.com/olympia.



Candice John Wins The 2013 Tournament of Champions Pro Figure – Complete Results


Thirteen women entered the 2013 IFBB Tournament of Champions Figure competition in hopes of qualifying for the Olympia. The event was the last opportunity to qualify for the IFBB Pro League’s biggest competition. For the competitors the stakes were high but clear… Win and you’re in. Finish in the top five and you collect points in the Olympia Point Series. Leading into today’s show, mathematically, only three women could qualify via the point system. Victoria Adelus, Kim Sheppard and Candice John were in position to leave with a ticket to the big show even if they didn’t win but did finish in the top four.

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They were locked in a three-way tie for sixth place. Each had 7 points and needed two or more points to get in (fifth only offers one point). This is where things get a bit more interesting. Should one of them win, then it would come down to who finished the highest of the other two. That’s exactly how it played out in Culver City this evening.

Candice John has been competing for most of the year and her placings have been a bit of a roller coaster. She was 13th at the Figure International in March but followed it up with a third place finish at the Pittsburgh Pro. She was fifth in Toronto but dropped to 16th in Tampa. One week later she moved up to 6th at the Dallas Europa and then last week improved to 3rd at the Valenti Cup. She was the unanimous winner on the judges’ scoresheet and leaves with an Olympia qualification. This is Candice’s second pro victory, her first pro win was the 2012 Pittsburgh Pro. Candice will enjoy the victory for a short bit but then it’s on to the Olympia where she’ll look to break the top 10 for the first time.

Victoria Adelus has been constantly improving the little details throughout the year. Her biggest challenge had been coming in full and not looking too stringy. She seemed to find the right formula in her previous two shows and came to California looking sharp. Unfortunately, Victoria came up just short and had to settle for third. There’s no shame in third however when one placing determines your fate for the Olympia, it has to be bitter sweet. Kim Sheppard had her best finish as a pro with the second place finish. She was 4th at last week’s Valenti Cup and before that was in 12th at the Dallas Europa. Kim had a pair of top five finishes earlier in the year with a 4th in Omaha and 3rd at the California pro. The second place finish earned her enough points to qualify for the Olympia.

Sasha Brown had her highest finish in her pro career in fourth and rounding out the top five was Latorya Watts. Latorya was just one point behind Sasha for fifth. Latorya has consistently been in the top spots since winning the 2013 NPC USA overall figure title.

Prejudging photos on NPCnewsonline.com.

2013 The Tournament of Champions Pro Figure Results:
1. Candice John
2. Kim Sheppard
3. Victoria Adelus
4. Sasha Brown
5. Latorya Watts
6. Vicki Dowell
7. Bjoana Vasiljevic
8. Beckie Boddie
9. Julie Mayer-Hyman
10. Alissa Parker
11. Olga Morales
12. Donna Lisa Rapoza
13. Karina Grau

Visit Bodybuilding.com for more TOC coverage.

Prejudging Callouts via Ron Avidan:
1st Callout: Victoria Adelus, Kim Sheppard, Sasha Brown, Candice John

2nd Callout: Beckie Boddie, Vicki Dowell, Julie Mayer-Hyman, Latorya Watts, Bojana Vasiljevic, Sasha Brown

3rd Callout: Karina Grau, olga Morales, Alissa Parker, DonnaLisa Rapoza

4th Callout: Victoria Adelus, Kim Sheppard, Candice John

Figure Olympia Point Series Top 5 and qualified for the Olympia.
1. Kamla Macko 16
2. Natalie Waples 13
2. Swann Cardot 13
2. Allison Frahn 13
5. Kim Sheppard 11

The next IFBB Pro show will be the Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information on the Olympia visit mrolympia.com.



Subscriptions WILL resume with the November issue for Oxygen, Clean Eating & MuscleMag


The following press release was posted on Active Interest Media‘s website on the official news of taking over Oxygen, Clean Eating and MuscleMag International magazines. The biggest thing to note in this is at the very end of the release. It states, “Your subscription will resume with the November issue and we pledge that you will receive all the issues that you have paid for.” This was something MANY people have asked about and fortunately for subscribers they can rest assured that the magazines will soon return to their mailboxes.

 

Active Interest Media, Inc. Acquires Three Market-Leading Publications from Robert Kennedy Publishing

Consumer Enthusiast Media Company AIM Adds Health and Epicurean Properties to Growing Portfolio of Magazines, Events and Electronic Media Holdings

Boulder, Colorado (September 3, 2013) – Active Interest Media, Inc. (AIM) President and Chief Operating Officer Andy Clurman has announced that the company has acquired three enthusiast publications from Robert Kennedy Publishing, adding to its growing portfolio of enthusiast magazines, events, websites and digital and social media platforms. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The assets include Oxygen, a leading health and fitness magazine for women (www.oxygenmag.com); Clean Eating, featuring cutting-edge nutritional information, recipes and menu plans across a spectrum of diets (www.cleaneatingmag.com); and MuscleMag International, one of the original and most beloved bodybuilding magazines (www.musclemag.com).

“We are thrilled to acquire these market-leading brands,” says Clurman. “These titles are standout subscription and newsstand performers that fit naturally within AIM’s Healthy Living Group, and both expand and deepen our reach in the epicurean and fitness categories.” AIM’s other titles in this area include Yoga Journal, Vegetarian Times, Muscle and Performance, The Box, and Blackbelt.

With the addition of these titles, AIM’s Healthy Living Group reaches over nine million consumers interested in living a healthy and active lifestyle – a category projected to grow 11.6% by 2017*. “Consumer interest and ad spending in this category continue to grow,” says Clurman. “With AIM’s considerable resources behind these brands, we look forward to a successful, bright future.”

About Active Interest Media, Inc.:
Active Interest Media, Inc. (AIM, www.aimmedia.com) is a leading publisher of enthusiast consumer shows and publications across all media platforms. AIM’s titles include Yoga Journal, Backpacker, Vegetarian Times, Yachts International, SAIL, Power & Motoryacht, Black Belt, American Cowboy, Practical Horseman Log Home Living, Old House Journal and many more. The company’s five publishing groups–the Equine Network, the Home Buyer Group, the Healthy Living Group, the Marine Group, and the Outdoor Group–reach more than 10 million readers in 85 countries around the world.

AIM was formed by Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm with offices in Chicago, Illinois and Southfield, Michigan, in partnership with CEO Efrem “Skip” Zimbalist III, in October 2003.

About Wind Point Partners:
Wind Point Partners (www.wppartners.com) is a private equity investment firm with over $1.8 billion in capital under management and locations in Chicago, IL and Southfield, MI. Wind Point’s strategy is to team with top caliber CEOs to acquire solid middle market businesses with a clear path to value creation. Wind Point has an excellent track record of success, and has invested in more than 80 companies since 1984.

*IHRSA Research Department

Subscribers: Your subscription will resume with the November issue and we pledge that you will receive all the issues that you have paid for.

 



MusclePharm’s Arnold Series Launches at The Olympia


MusclePharm announced their partnership with iconic bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger earlier this year. The growing supplement company will launch the new supplement brand at this year’s Olympia. Today the company announced that the nutritional supplement line would be distributed exclusively through Europa Sports Products. The partnership with Europa makes sense given the recent news of Europa’s sponsorship of the Arnold Sports Festival.

arnold-series

The Arnold Series appears to keep with the MusclePharm green which has become it’s calling card in the industry. A silhouette of Arnold is also seen in the background and as the mark for the new line. Below is the press release from MusclePharm.

DENVER, Sept. 4, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — MusclePharm Corporation (MSLP), a nutritional supplement company focused on active lifestyles, announced today a partnership with Europa Sports Products, the nation’s largest distributor of nutritional supplements, sports drinks and accessories, will exclusively distribute MusclePharm’s new Arnold Seriesâ„¢ across North America.  Developed by Mr. Universe, Mr. World and Mr. Olympia title holder, actor, entrepreneur and former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and MusclePharm’s world-renowned scientific team, the Arnold Series is a new breakthrough line of nutritional supplements that will launch through Europa Sports Products Sept. 26 at Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas.

With more than 20,000+ stores nationwide, including gyms, retail stores, and online fulfillment, Europa Sports Products will quickly deliver the Arnold Series to consumers.  The company’s fast-to-market approach significantly influenced MusclePharm’s partner selection.

“I’m honored that Arnold and MusclePharm chose Europa Sports Products as their North American distribution partner. The Europa Sports team has built a reputation on establishing relationships with our customers that is unmatched in the sports and nutrition industry. The ability to offer them the Arnold Series and help position their business for success is what our team thrives on each day,” states Eric Hillman, CEO and co-founder of Europa Sports Products.

“It made perfect sense for us to launch Arnold Series, from the world’s biggest icon in fitness, with Europa Sports Products, the nation’s largest distributor of nutritional supplements,” said Brad Pyatt, founder and CEO, MusclePharm.  “With their ability to activate their distribution channels quickly, enormous reach and outstanding customer service, they’re able to deliver Arnold Series to fitness enthusiasts nationwide.”

The Arnold Series product line will initially launch with seven supplements supporting the four fitness pillars: performance, power & strength, nutrient support and recovery.  Schwarzenegger worked side-by-side with MusclePharm’s cutting-edge scientific team to create a monumental line of new products that are revolutionary, safe–and above all–effective.

About MusclePharm Corporation:
MusclePharm® is an award-winning, worldwide leading sports nutrition company offering vitamins and nutritional supplements which are available in more than 110 countries and in over 11,000 U.S retail outlets including Dick’s Sporting Goods, GNC, Vitamin Shoppe and Vitamin World.  The company’s brands are MusclePharm®, Arnold Seriesâ„¢, and FitMissâ„¢. Founded in 2008 by former NFL player, Brad Pyatt, the comprehensive lines of clinically-proven, safe and effective nutritional supplements address every element of the active, push-the-edge lifestyle – from muscle building and athletic performance to weight loss and general fitness.  All MusclePharm products are developed through a comprehensive six-stage research process at the MusclePharm Sports Science Center & Research Center in Denver, Colorado and utilize the expertise of leading nutritional scientists, doctors and universities.  For more information, visit www.musclepharm.com and follow MusclePharm on twitter at www.twitter.com/MusclePharm.

About Europa Sports Products:
Based in Charlotte, NC, Europa Sports Products is recognized as the industry leader in the distribution of nutritional and sports supplements, sports drinks and accessories to mass market retailers, gyms, health food stores and specialty supplement retailers. Europa offers more than 6,000 products representing 300+ of the industry’s leading brands. With 336,500 sq. ft. of warehouse space in seven strategically located offices nationwide, Europa’s expedited delivery process allows customers to keep “Just in Time” inventory. Europa is setting the industry standard in quality, product assortment, customer service and satisfaction.  For more information, visit www.europasports.com.

Forward Looking Statements
The information contained herein includes forward-looking statements. These statements relate to future events or to our future financial performance, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements since they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which are, in some cases, beyond our control and which could, and likely will, materially affect actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. Any forward-looking statement reflects our current views with respect to future events and is subject to these and other risks, uncertainties and assumptions relating to our operations, results of operations, growth strategy and liquidity. We assume no obligation to publicly update or revise these forward-looking statements for any reason, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

MusclePharm Contact:
Ivy Mollenkamp/Jackie Crystal
Rogers & Cowan
310-854-8131/310-854-8157
imollenkamp@rogersandcowan.com
jcrystal@rogersandcowan.com



Diana Nyad Does It – Swims from Cuba to Florida at Age 64


Diana Nyad became the first person to swim from Cuba to Florida without a shark cage. She accomplished the 110 mile swim after 35 years of defeat. It took her just under 53 hours to finish but she did it and reminded everyone you’re never too old to give up on a dream.

 

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When Diana reached the shore she said, “I have three messages. One is we should never ever give up. Two is you never are too old to chase your dreams. Three is it looks like a solitary sport but it takes a team.” She first attempted the swim in 1978 and failed several time since.

 

 

She face many obstacles along the way. Jellyfish, sharks (although fortunately non this time), along with staying hydrated and fueled. Diana shared with CBS This Morning that the key was to “find a way”. She told the morning hosts, No matter what you come up against, just find a way.

Diana’s story is nothing short of remarkable and one that embodies the human spirit. Read a great feature from our friends at espnW.com on this feat.

She has a documentary, The Other Shore, coming out later this month that highlights her incredible journey.

The Other Shore follows world record holder and legendary swimmer Diana Nyad as she comes out of a thirty-year retirement to re-attempt an elusive dream: swimming 103 miles non-stop from Cuba to Florida without the use of a shark cage. Her past and present collide in her obsession with a feat that nobody has ever accomplished. At the edge of The Devil’s Triangle, tropical storms, sharks, venomous jellyfish, and one of the strongest ocean currents in the world, all prove to be life-threatening realities. Timothy Wheeler’s documentary brings Diana Nyad’s extraordinary adventure to life as Diana sets out to prove that will and determination are all you need to make the unimaginable possible.

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The Other Shore

The Other Shore follows world record holder and legendary swimmer Diana Nyad as she comes out of a thirty-year retirement to re-attempt an elusive dream: swimming 103 miles non-stop from Cuba to Florida without the use of a shark cage. Her past and present collide in her obsession with a feat that nobody has ever accomplished. At the edge of The Devil’s Triangle, tropical storms, sharks, venomous jellyfish, and one of the strongest ocean currents in the world, all prove to be life-threatening realities. Timothy Wheeler’s documentary brings Diana Nyad’s extraordinary adventure to life as Diana sets out to prove that will and determination are all you need to make the unimaginable possible.

For more information on Diana’s film visit:
Follow on twitter at: twitter.com/OtherShoreMovie
Pre-Order at: http://theothershoremovie.com

never-give-up

Follow on twitter at: twitter.com/diananyad
Her Website: www.diananyad.com

photo via: theothershoremovie.com



2013 IFBB Tournament of Champions Preview – Last Chance For the Big Dance


The Tournament of Champions better known as the TOC is the last chance for the women of the IFBB Figure division to qualify for the Olympia. Win and you’re in. Those who finish in second through fifth collect points but for most women the points won’t matter however for a few they will should they come up just short of winning. The action takes place on Saturday, September 7th in Culver City, California.

toc-figure


The HARDBODY 411:

The top four spots are set for through the Olympia point series. Kamla Macko is the top seed in the points and is in the Olympia. There’s a three-way tie for second between Natalie Waples, Swann Cardot and Allison Frahn. Those three women are also in the Olympia because mathematically no one else can tie them (13 points). Aleisha Hart is currently in fifth place with 9 points, reports are that she will not be competing in the TOC or the Olympia should she remain in 5th place. That leaves a few women with the opportunity to head to the Olympia should they not win but finish in the top spots.

Victoria Adelus, Candice John and Kim Sheppard are all tied for 6th place with seven points. They need to finish in fourth place (2 points) or higher in order to knock Hart out of the fifth spot. Which ever woman finishes higher, if in the top four, will qualify and head to the Olympia. Julie Mayer-Hyman has entered the TOC and is a long shot but could get in should she finish in second but only in second because she’s sitting with five points heading into the show. Other women have the points however are not entered in the contest and unless they do between now and Saturday, will not be a factor.

Contenders:

Latorya Watts has two fourth place finishes to her credit since winning the overall NPC USA Figure title. She has a tiny waist, broad shoulders however her hips are a bit narrow which can throw her symmetry off. As a rookie pro, she’s lighting the stage up and becoming a fan favorite. You have to figure she’ll be in the mix. Victoria Adelus has been on a bit of a steak herself. She’s coming off a carer best as a pro with a third place finish at the Tahoe Pro. She landed in fourth a week prior to that at the Dallas Europa. If Victoria can bring a similar look as she has to those shows she’ll be in the mix. Candice John has also been moving up in her placings as the season progresses. She was outside the pack against some of these women in Tahoe but moved up into third behind Macko and Stern last week at the Valenti Gold Cup. Candice has the potential and could be a top contender here. Julie Mayer-Hyman was second at the Europa pro show and dropped slightly to fifth at the Tahoe Pro. Julie will need a win or a second place finish in order to head to Vegas for the Olympia. She’ll have her work cur out for her but it’s not impossible. Kim Sheppard is another top threat and if her conditioning is on point could a contender.

Dark Horses:
Vicki Dowell debuted in Tahoe with a 13th place finish. If she brings better conditioning she could move up into the top five mix. She has the structure to hold her own in this line-up. Alissa Parker has the muscle and the structure to shake things up in her pro debut. She was second at the NPC Jr. Nationals and took top honors at this year’s Team Universe contest in July.

2013 IFBB Tournament of Champions Pro Figure Line-up:
1. Victoria Adelus
2. Beckie Boddie
3. Sasha Brown
4. Vicki Dowell
5. Karina Grau
6. Candice John
7. Julie Mayer-Hyman
8. Olga Morales
9. Alissa Parker
10. Donna Lisa Rapoza
11. Kim Sheppard
12. Bojana Vasiljevic
13. Latorya Watts

Get photos from the event on Bodybuilding.com and for more information visit musclecontest.com.

 



Active Interest Media acquires Oxygen, MuscleMag & Clean Eating Magazines.


Last month we brought you up to speed on the latest with Oxygen Magazine. Today, Foliomag.com confirmed that Active Interest Media (AIM) has acquired Oxygen, Clean Eating and MuscleMag International from Robert Kennedy Publishing.

oxygen-magazine

The site shared that the three titles were purchased in cash through an auction process. Some of the staff from the magazines will move to the U.S. and be part of the new business. Oxygen and Muscle Mag will be moved to Active Interest Media’s California office and Clean Eating will operate out of their Boulder, Colorado office.

The Financial Post reports that Deloitte (the trustee of the bankrupt estate) says, “Cruz Bay Publishing Inc. will effectively re-start the publishing and distribution business of Oxygen, MuscleMag International, Clean Eating, Reps, American Curves and the former magazine Maximum Fitness.

Earlier this year, AIM acquired the Boulder-based SKI and Skiing magazines and Warren Miller Entertainment from the Bonnier Mountain Group. AIM has a wide list of magazines including Yoga Journal, Vegetarian Times, Better Nutrition, Black Belt, Muscle & Performance, The Box and many others. The addition of these three titles compliments the publisher’s growing list of titles in the health & fitness division.

Foliomag.com shared, “Oxygen is currently at about 125,000 subscribers, with an additional 60,000 in newsstand sales. Clean Eating has 140,000 subscribers with another 80,000 sold at retail. And MuscleMag has about 50,000 readers with 32,000 subscribers and 18,000 single-copy sales.”

About Active Interest Media, Inc.
Active Interest Media, Inc. (AIM, www.aimmedia.com) is a leading publisher of enthusiast consumer shows and publications across all media platforms. AIM’s titles include Yoga Journal, Backpacker, Vegetarian Times, Yachts International, SAIL, Power & Motoryacht, SKI, Skiing, Black Belt, American Cowboy, Practical Horseman Log Home Living, Old House Journal and many more. The company’s five publishing groups–the Equine Network, the Home Buyer Group, the Healthy Living Group, the Marine Group, and the Outdoor Group–reach more than 10 million readers in 85 countries around the world.

AIM was formed by Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm with offices in Chicago, Illinois and Southfield, Michigan, in partnership with CEO Efrem “Skip” Zimbalist III, in October 2003.

UPDATE – Sept 4, 2013
Today, Oxygen Magazine shared the news via their facebook page with the official press release and the following message. Still no word on the subscriptions being honored or not but once we hear we’ll update you.

Good news Oxygen fans! Active Interest Media, Inc. (www.aimmedia.com) announced yesterday that it has acquired three former Robert Kennedy Publishing publications including Oxygen! We’re back! Here’s the official press release.

pressrelease

 



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