Archives for July 2015

Ronda Rousey is ‘femininely badass as f*ck’


Ronda Rousey Rio

UFC Champion Ronda Rousey puts her Bantamweight title on the line this Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil against Bethe Correia. If you’ve followed Ronda for any amount of time you know the hardbody champion is never short on giving people something to talk about. She unapologetically speaks her mind and consistently provides writes with headlines on a silver platter.

In the second episode of UFC 190 EMBEDDED we’re treated to a perfect example of this. It’s 10:45pm and Ronda is all business. She’s doing cardio on an elliptical machine. Her headphones are on, hands are wrapped and she’s working up a sweat. She’s not talking or texting…she’s focused.

After cardio and a training session, Ronda discusses her body and the type of woman she isn’t. She’s not a ‘do-nothing bitch’ and she find her body to be ‘femininely badass as f*ck’. What? Watch around the 6:10 minute mark for some of the best of Ronda yet…

“Being put in the position of being like a role model, I don’t think I’m infallible enough for that. I have this one term for the kind of woman that my mother raised me to not be. And I call it a ‘do nothing bitch.’ Or I call it a DNB a lot of the time. The kind of chick that just like just tries to be pretty and get taken care of by somebody else. That’s why I think it’s hilarious like or if people like say my body looks masculine or something like that. I’m just like, ‘listen, I’m like, just because my body was developed for a purpose other than fucking millionaires, doesn’t mean it’s masculine.’ I think it’s femininely badass as fuck because there’s not a single muscle in my body that isn’t for a purpose. Because I’m not a do-nothing bitch. It’s not very eloquently said but it’s to the point and maybe that’s just what I am. You know, I’m not that eloquent but I’m to the point.”

Be like Rhonda. Don’t be a #DNB. Be femininely badass.

Ronda Rousey Quote - femininely badass as fuck



Ronda Rousey & JJ Watt Star in New Reebok Commercial


rousey jj watt reebok

A new Reebok commercial with NFL standout J.J. Watt and UFC Champion Ronda Rousey launched today. “Before Ronda Rousey and J.J. Watt begin punishing their workouts, they get locked in with the ZPump Fusion from Reebok.” Check it out.


Ronda Rousey & JJ Watt Star in New Reebok Commercia



Jen Welter – NFL’s First Female Coach


TEMPE, Ariz. (AP) — The Arizona Cardinals have hired Jen Welter to coach inside linebackers through their upcoming training camp and preseason.

The Cardinals say Welter is believed to be the first woman to hold a coaching position of any kind in the NFL. Welter played running back and special teams in 2014 for the Texas Revolution of the Indoor Football League, becoming the first woman to hold a non-kicking position for a men’s professional sports league.

“I am honored to be a part of this amazing team,” Welter said on Twitter on Monday night.

Welter coached linebackers and special teams for the Revolution last season, becoming the first woman to coach in a men’s pro football league. Her general manager with the Revolution was 2015 NFL Hall of Fame inductee Tim Brown.

Welter played linebacker for more than 14 seasons in the Women’s Football Alliance, mostly with the Dallas Diamonds, where she helped the team win four championships. Welter holds a master’s degree in sports psychology. A rugby player at Boston College, she also earned two gold medals on Team USA at the International Federation of Football Women’s World Championships in 2009 and 2013.

A news conference was scheduled for Tuesday to introduce Welter and Levon Kirkland, a former Pro Bowl linebacker who is the inaugural participant in the Bill Bidwill Coaching Fellowship established to give recently retired NFL players a chance to coach in the league. He will work with outside linebackers for the next two seasons.

Four months ago at the NFL meetings, Arizona coach Bruce Arians was asked about the possibility of a woman coaching in the NFL.

“The minute they can prove they can make a player better, they’ll be hired,” Arians said.

Speaking to azcardinals.com on Monday, Arians said: “Coaching is nothing more than teaching. One thing I have learned from players is ‘How are you going to make me better? If you can make me better, I don’t care if you’re the Green Hornet, I’ll listen.'”

“I really believe she’ll have a great opportunity with this internship through training camp to open some doors for her,” Arians said.

It’s the second such barrier to be broken in the NFL this year. The league announced in April that Sarah Thomas would be the first woman to be a full-time NFL official.

In the NBA, Becky Hammon is an assistant coach with San Antonio and served as the head coach for the Spurs’ team that won the Las Vegas Summer League championship.

Via AP



Ronda Rousey Appears in New Budweiser Brazil Commercial


Ronda Rousey Budweiser
UFC champion, Ronda Rousey appears in a new Budweiser Brazil commercial in front of her title defense against Brazilian Bethe Correria on August 1st. The commercial doesn’t really have anything to do with Budweiser and could be an ad for pretty much anything minus the occasional Budweiser sign. It’s still a well done commercial, as you might expect from Budweiser.

Ronda is shown training solo throughout the 60 second spot with a voice over…

You have to have fear in order to have courage.

You’re not just training to be the best in the world… You’re training to be the best in the world on your worst day.

Nobody is easy until after you defeat them.

I work hard to make the fight easy.

I always perform above myself when the pressure is the highest.

I’m scared of failure all the time… but I’m not scared enough to stop trying.

Never forget where you came from.



Meet Janae Marie Kroc… Formerly Matt Kroc


Matt Kroc to Janae Marie Kroc
While the mainstream media has been fixated on Caitlyn Jenner, the powerlifting/bodybuilding world has its own Transgender story. Over the past year, powerlifting champion and amateur bodybuilder Matt Kroc has been transitioning himself into the woman he’s always wanted to be… Janae Marie Kroc.

Looking back on the Matt Kroc’s Instagram page you can see some of the changes taking place of the past year. While continuing to update the Matt Kroc account, Janae Marie was quietly documenting the journey to a new identity. The profile reads, “Janae Marie Transgender/genderfluid Alpha male/girly girl Lesbian in a male body Single at the moment.” The first post was after surgery…


First no makeup pic 5 days post op FFS. 🙂

A photo posted by Janae Marie (@janaemariekroc) on

From GymFlow100.com

“Transitioning is a very difficult process and even tougher at an older age (I’m 42). Your body doesn’t respond to hormones very well as compared to being in your teens or twenties and I have built a very good life for myself that I am hesitant to give up. And living as a transgender woman that is honest about her situation is very difficult and can be very dangerous. I am a very realistic person and I don’t think the transitioning will magically solve all of my issues without creating new challenges. Whatever path I choose there will be sacrifices to be made.”

In a story with GymFlow100.com Janae shares her full story.

#transgender #genderfluid #mtf #m2f #nonbinary #girlswholift #girlswithmuscle #girlslikeus #macgal #macgirl #brunette

A photo posted by Janae Marie (@janaemariekroc) on

The last post was three weeks ago but the comments continue to pour in. The comments are overwhelming positive and visitors are treated to a response from both Matt and Janae Marie in some of the posts. Janae Marie tells a confused commenter, “sexuality and gender identity are two different things. One isn’t necessarily linked to the other. Sexuality is who you like, gender identity is who you are. :-)”

When asked by one visitor if Matt Kroc would be coming back to powerlifting Matt writes back, “I’ve been having a lot of shoulder issues for the last 4-5 months which have prohibited me from training regular flat bench. So that has postponed any return for now. I’m training around it the best I can and trying to get it healed up. I will come back 100% or not at all. It’s not in me to do things half way.”

Janae Marie’s story has been picked up by a number of news organizations. Hngn.com writes, “Elite Bodybuilder Matt ‘Kroc’ Kroczaleski Transitions To Janae Marie Kroc” and outsports.com shares, “World record powerlifter transitions to Janae Marie Kroc.”

See more of Janae Marie’s journey on her Instagram account.



Boston Bails on 2024 Olympic Summer Games Bid


boston bails on olympics

The United Stats Olympic Committee (USOC) and Boston 2024 Partnership announced that they have “jointly ended the campaign for Boston to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.” Boston was selected in January as a potential host for the Olympic Games. They put together an impressive website, social media and marketing campaign but ultimately the pulled the plug.

In a statement released today, United States Olympic Committee CEO Scott Blackmun shared, “we have not been able to get a majority of the citizens of Boston to support hosting the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Therefore, the USOC does not think that the level of support enjoyed by Boston’s bid would allow it to prevail over great bids from Paris, Rome, Hamburg, Budapest or Toronto.”

The USOC isn’t ruling out another American City bidding on the game and have begun exploring other potential cities.

Steve Pagliuca, Boston 2024 Partnership chairman added, “Boston 2024 Partnership will offer our support and the extensive knowledge we have gained in developing our Bid 2.0 to any American city that may choose to participate in the 2024 bidding process going forward.”

Read the full statement here.



Remaining IFBB Pro Shows Before The 2015 Olympia


The 2015 Olympia is less than 8 weeks away and while many IFBB pros are currently preparing for the big show in Vegas, others will be looking to qualify. The winner of each IFBB Pro show earns a spot in the Olympia lineup for their respective division. The top five in the Olympia Point Series will also punch their ticket to the O.

The remaining shows to qualify for the 2015 Olympia:

IFBB WINGS OF STRENGTH PBW TAMPA PRO
When: August 6-8, 2015
Where: Tampa, Florida
Divisions: Men’s Open Bodybuilding, Men’s 212, Men’s Physique, Fitness, Figure, Bikini, Women’s Physqiue

IFBB ORANGE COUNTY MUSCLE CLASSIC PRO
When: August 8, 2015
Where: Culver City, CA
Divisions: Bikini

IFBB DALLAS PRO
When: August 15, 2015
Where: Dallas, Texas
Divisions: Men’s Physique, Bikini

IFBB COASTAL USA PRO
When: August 15, 2015
Where: Atlanta, Georgia
Divisions: Men’s Physique, Bikini

IFBB GOLDEN STATE GRAND PRIX
When: August 15, 2015
Where: Sacramento, CA
Divisions: Men’s Open Bodybuilding

IFBB WINGS OF STRENGTH TEXAS PRO
When: August 20-22, 2015
Where: San Antonio, Texas
Divisions: Men’s Open Bodybuilding, Men’s 212, Fitness, Figure, Women’s Physique

IFBB TAHOE PRO
When: August 22, 2015
Where: Tahoe, Nevada
Divisions: Figure

IFBB EUROPA ATLANTIC CITY
When: August 28-29, 20915
Where: Atlantic City, New Jersey
Divisions: Men’s Open Bodybuilding, Men’s Physique, Figure, Women’s Physique

IFBB SOUTHWEST MUSCLE
When: August 29, 2015
Where: Las Vegas, Nevada
Divisions: Men’s Physique

IFBB NAPLES BIKINI
When: August 29, 2015
Where: Naples, Florida
Divisions: Bikini

This is subject to change, visit IFBBpro.com for schedule updates. 



Katrin Tanja Davidsdottir Wins the 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games


2015 CrossFit Games Winner
The third time was a charm for Iceland’s Katrin Tanja Davidsdottir. Katrin proved that persistence pays off. In 2012 she finished in 30th, in 2013 she moved up to 24th but in 2014 she failed to qualify for the Games. Today, she finished forty point ahead of her nearest competitor and was crowned “The Fittest Woman on Earth.” Along with that prestigious title she also collected $275,000 with the win. The same amount her male counter part, Ben Smith collected for his victory.

Rounding out the Women’s top five were Tia-Clair Toomey in second, Ragnheiður Sara Sigmundsdottir in third, Sam Briggs was fourth and Kara Webb finished in fifth.

2015 Reebok CrossFit Games Women’s Results
1 (790) Katrin Tanja Davidsdottir
2 (750) Tia-Clair Toomey
3 (743) Ragnheiður Sara Sigmundsdottir
4 (735) Samantha Briggs
5 (703) Kara Webb
6 (661) Chyna Cho
7 (636) Lindsey Valenzuela
8 (623) Emily Abbott
9 (620) Margaux Alvarez
10 (616) Amanda Goodman
11 (606) Stacie Tovar
12 (590) Sammy Wood
13 (586) Camille Leblanc-Bazinet
14 (582) Brooke Ence
15 (575) Nicole Holcomb
16 (572) Brooke Wells
17 (566) Kristin Holte
18 (562) Michele Letendre
19 (560) Whitney Gelin
20 (556) Alethea Boon

2015 CrossFit Games Prize Money for the Top 20 at the Games
1st – $275,000
2nd – $90,000
3rd – $60,000
4th – $30,000
5th – $20,000
6th – $18,000
7th – $16,000
8th – $14,000
9th – $13,000
10th – $12,000
11th – $11,000
12th – $10,000
13th – $9,000
14th – $8,000
15th – $7,000
16th – $6,000
17th – $5,000
18th – $4,000
19th – $3,000
20th – $2,000

Visit games.crossfit.com for more information.
Photo via CrossFitGames.



2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Results


2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Results

PREJUDGING REPORT:
The IFBB men’s open and men’s 212 Bodybuilding prejudging and finals took place today in Vancouver, Canada.  Things went as most expected in the Men’s bodybuilding division with Fouad Abiad and Jon Delarosa being the top two in the prejudging round. Fouad out-sized Delarosa and it will likely be an unanimous victory for the Canadian. Delarosa was coming off a win at the Chicago Pro held earlier this month.  In the Men’s 212 it came down to Shaun Clarida and Derek Farnsworth for the win. The class didn’t have much depth with just six competitors but Clarida was clearly head and shoulders above the field.

FINALS:
Congratulations to Fouad Abiad, winner of the open Men’s Bodybuilding at the 2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro. Shaun Clarida took home the top spot and an Olympia qualification in the Men’s 212. Eren Legend was victorious in the Men’s Physique competition and Leah Johnson was the winner in the Women’s Physique. Tanji Johnson’ Fitness routine propelled her to another victory and in Bikini it was newcomer Alla Semenova with the win. Last but certainly not least Candice John returned to top form and will head back to the Olympia with her win in the Figure division.

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Results

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Men’s Bodybuilding Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Fouad Abiad
2. Jon Delarosa
3. Renaldo Gairy
4. Stefan Havlik
5. Paola Almeida
6. Santana Anderson
7. Ron Partlow

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Men’s 212 Bodybuilding Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Shaun Clarida
2. Derik Farnsworth
3. Patrick Bernard
4. Mike Lynds
5. John Meadows
6. Carlos Rabiei
7. Rafel Diaz Drechiger

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Men’s Physique Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Eren Legend
2. Aj Shukoori
3. Mirko Maras
4. Erik Bywater
5. Sentanta Carroll
6. Matt Pattison
7. Chris Pylypchuk
8. Chris Johnson
DNF – Chris Griffin

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Women’s Physique Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Leah Johnson
2. Jodi Boam
3. Krtistina Dybdahl-Farnsworth
4. Yeonwoo Ji
5. Athena Siganakis
6. Tamara Qureshi
7. Jeni Briscoe
DNF – Silvia Fraga Alves

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Bikini Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Alla Semenova
2. Francesca Lauren
3. Sofiia Tandilian
4. Liana Moroz
5. Leigh Brandt
6. Lindsey Waters
7. Anette DeLaRosa
8. Ebony Chipman
9. Vladimira Krasova
10. Anne Marie Caravalho
11. Nicole Virnig
12. Julian Andrade
13. Melissa Chanthaseng
14. Cassandra Marshall
15. Diana Graham
16. Valerie Cantin
16. Anna Lee McKill
16. Nikki Preston

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Figure Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Candice John
2. Janaina Ferreira
3. Swann Delarosa
4. Jennifer Brown
5. Azaria Glaim
6. Erin Harding
7. Leah Berti
8. Tanya Chartrand
9. Agnese Russo
10. Jessica MacMillan
11. Shelly Paton
12. Marie Natalie Janik
13. Laura Davies
DNF – Maria Scotland

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Fitness Results
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
1. Tanji Johnson
2. Whitney Jones
3. Chika Aluka
4. Brittany Kanne
5. Dominique Matthews
6. Caitlin Bailie
7. Debbie Fowler
8. Natalie Graziano
9. Sherry Boudreau



2015 NPC USA Women’s Results


2015 NPC USA Results
The women of the NPC were on stage in Las Vegas this weekend for the NPC USA Championships. All competitors were introduced on stage at the finals and the top five in each class were awarded trophies. All seven of the Men’s Bodybuilding classes are eligible for IFBB Pro status. The top two in the overall female bodybuilding champions are also eligible for IFBB Pro status. The top 2 in Figure, Bikini, Men and Women’s Physique are eligible for IFBB Pro status. A total of 53 pro cards were awarded. The class winners and overall winners get a little help with the $300 entry fee ($600 if it was late). Per the entry form, “Class winners will receive up to $100 toward travel expenses. Overall winners will receive up to $300 toward travel expenses.”

See who finished in the top spots and left Vegas with pro status.

*Pro Card

BIKINI
BIKINI A
1. Lauren Irick*
2. Sarah Storrs*
3. Katherine Alcantara
4. Valorie Annunziata
5. Sondra Blockman

BIKINI B
1. Lexa Mendenhall*
2. Jessica Wilson*
3. Alexandra Frias
4. Stefany Orama
5. Sarah Pearce

BIKINI C
1. Amber Callahan*
2. Ashley Kiyonaga*
3. Angie Majeed
4. Heidi Patterson
5. Alyssa Germeroth

BIKINI D
1. Tifanny Urrea**
2. Samantha Grimes*
3. Emily Hayden
4. Rachel Shimon
5. Na’Iyma Thompson

BIKINI E
1. Taylor Rhodenbaugh*
2. Heather Quinn*
3. Naomi Ogden
4. Jaclyn Polimeni
5. Samantha Skolkin

BIKINI F
1. Ashley Puida*
2. Elizabeth Martinez*
3. Rachel Fisher
4. Sofia Rodriguez
5. Jamie Collins

**BIKINI OVERALL WINNER – Tifanny Urrea

FIGURE
FIGURE A
1. Rosa Alanis*
2. Kaylie Klitzing*
3. Traci Draizin
4. Michelle Lindsay
5. Alexandra Wilcox

FIGURE B
1. Kayce Gorman**
2. Karla Lopez Ocasio*
3. Betzaida “Betzy” Baldger
4. Irina Kiselev
5. Christine Cecilione

FIGURE C
1. Krystal Ricci*
2. Victoria Marie Jenks*
3. Desiree Alferes
4. Topaz Good
5. Merissa Pough

FIGURE D
1. Malorie Scherf*
2. Monique Terry*
3. Joanna Cometa
4. Nikki Webb
5. Brittany Bull

FIGURE E
1. Valarie Pequeno*
2. Sherry Homan*
3. Heather Weber
4. Patricia Malagrino
5. Veronica Paul

FIGURE F
1. Sara Ard*
2. Michelle Maier*
3. Svetlana Schchavinska
4. Deanna Patterson
5. Courtney Bureau

**FIGURE OVERALL WINNER – Kayce Gorman

WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE
WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE A
1. Michaela Aycock*
2. Erika Kikuchi*
3. Marcelina Rivera-Chambers
4. Wendy Graack
5. Yesenia Garzoria

WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE C
1. Chelsey Coleman*
2. Kimberly Anthony*
3. Tina Mauer Guadarrama
4. Natalie Bush
5. Lisa Mendoza

WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE C
1. Billie Cavalier**
2. Sierra Mangus*
3. Kat Secor
4. Lindsay Bradley
5. Kortne Greene

WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE D
1. Hailey McGrath*
2. Brienne Eubanks*
3. Jamie Tirabasso
4. Kimberly Rieck
5. Morisa Conner

**WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE OVERALL CHAMPION – Billie Cavalier

WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING
WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING LIGHTWEIGHT
1. Heather Osborne
2. Carla Krodinger

WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING MIDDLEWEIGHT
1. Tram Nguyen
2. Orlany Perez

WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING LIGHT-HEAVYWEIGHT
1. Tarna Alderman*
2. Jacqueline Horan
3. Rachael Pecoraro
4. Yvette Bova

WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING HEAVYWEIGHT
1. Mary Cain**
2. Joella Bernard
3. Wendy Watson

**WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING OVERALL CHAMPION – Mary Cain

For complete scores and results visit npcnewsonline.com.



FDA Proposes Additional Revisions to the Nutrition Facts Label


July 24, 2015 – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is proposing additional revisions to the Nutrition Facts label for packaged foods. The supplemental proposal would, among other things, require declaration of the percent daily value (%DV) for added sugars. The proposed rule is a supplement to the March 3, 2014 proposed rule on updating the Nutrition Facts label. The percent daily value indicates how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet and would help consumers make informed choices for themselves and their families.

The percent daily value would be based on the recommendation that the daily intake of calories from added sugars not exceed 10 percent of total calories.

The 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC) recently summarized scientific data related to added sugars. The FDA considered the scientific evidence that the DGAC used, which showed that it is difficult to meet nutrient needs while staying within calorie requirements if one exceeds 10 percent of total calories from added sugar, and has determined that this information supports this daily value for added sugars. The DGAC also recommended that Americans limit their added sugars intake to less than 10 percent of total calories. This and other recommendations from the DGAC, which is an independent advisory committee, will be considered in the development of the final 2015 Dietary Guidelines.

The FDA’s initial proposal to include the amount of added sugars on the Nutrition Facts label is now further supported by newly reviewed studies suggesting healthy dietary patterns, including lower amounts of sugar-sweetened foods and beverages, are strongly associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

The FDA is also proposing to change the current footnote on the Nutrition Facts label to help consumers understand the percent daily value concept. In addition, the FDA is releasing results of its consumer studies on the declaration of added sugars and the footnote.

The FDA is seeking public comment on the proposal for 75 days. The agency continues to review comments received on the 2014 proposed rule and is reopening the comment period on its March 2014 proposal for 60 days to invite public comment on two consumer studies related to label formats. The agency will consider comments on the original and this supplemental proposed rule before issuing a final rule.

The FDA is accepting public comments starting July 27, 2015.

To electronically submit comments to the docket, visit http://www.regulations.gov.

To submit comments to the docket by mail, use the following address. Be sure to include docket number FDA-2012-N-1210 on each page of your written comments.

Division of Dockets Management HFA-305 Food and Drug Administration 5630 Fishers Lane, Room 1061 Rockville, MD 20852



New Chucks From Converse


2015 Chuck Allstars

The diehards of Hardbody Nation know that Chucks are great. Many meatheads from the casual to the serious love squatting or doing deadlifts in Chuck Taylor shoes. Will the new Chuck Taylor All Star shoes be a hit with the weightlifting world? We’ll keep you posted. Check out the video preview on our Facebook page.

CONVERSE USHERS IN NEW ERA WITH GROUND-BREAKING CHUCK TAYLOR ALL STAR II

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Sneaker is built for more with innovative comfort technology and premium materials.

Today, CONVERSE Inc. debuts the all new Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II, a contemporary adaptation of the exemplary Chuck Taylor All Star silhouette, for the first time overflowing with innovative Nike Lunarlon technology to support the always-on creative lifestyle. The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II is ready for more, boasting the most recognizable exterior attributes of the original Chuck Taylor All Star. Details include the unique white foxing, rubber toe-cap and statement All Star patch, while dialing up consumer-led features and benefits to deliver a comfortable and versatile premium sneaker for Chuck Taylor lovers everywhere.

“The Chuck Taylor All Star is one of the most legendary and iconic sneakers of all time,” said Jim Calhoun, Converse President and CEO. “The launch of Chuck II is a ground-breaking moment for Converse as we continue to move the brand forward through creativity and innovation, ushering in not just a new sneaker, but a completely new way of thinking.”

Since its debut in 1917, the Chuck Taylor All Star has become one of the world’s most celebrated sneakers, with fans, artists and musicians adopting the brand as a badge of creativity and self-expression. In creating the Chuck II, Converse obsessed over creative spirits around the world joining them on tour, in concert halls and art studios, on sidewalks and at all-night parties, and realized they wanted more. The Chuck Taylor All Star II is designed to meet the demands of the creative lifestyle and is built for the next generation of self-expression. Now, this beloved classic receives an innovative refresh, with product enhancements that stay true to the time-honored aesthetic while also providing modern comfort solutions in a premium execution.

“The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II is a sneaker that started with one simple notion: obsession,” said Richard Copcutt, Vice President/General Manager of Converse All Star. “We listened and took it to heart that people love their Chucks and want sneakers that are built to enable them to do more. The Chuck II is the full expression of this consumer obsession, staying true to the DNA of the original.”

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II delivers:

  • Innovative features
    • Nike Lunarlon sockliner for superior full foot cushioning and arch support
    • Foam padded collar and non-slip gusseted tongue for 360-degree comfort
    • A perforated micro suede liner, for breathability during extended periods of wear.
  • Premium details

Constructed from durable premium canvas, the exterior of the Chuck Taylor All Star II elevates the sneaker’s most recognizable features with premium details including:

  • A fully embroidered All Star patch
  • On-trend high foxing
  • Monochrome matte eyelets

The new Fall 2015 Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II sneaker makes its debut on Tuesday, July 28, for a suggested retail price of $70 USD (ox) and $75 USD (hi-top) at Converse retail stores, select retailers and online at Converse.com, in the following colors: Black, White, Red and Blue.


ABOUT CONVERSE

Converse Inc., based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a wholly owned subsidiary of NIKE, Inc. Established in 1908, the Converse brand has built a reputation as “America’s Original Sports Company”â„¢ and has been associated with a rich heritage of legendary shoes such as the Chuck Taylor® All Star® shoe, the Jack Purcell® shoe and the One Star® shoe. Today, Converse offers a diverse portfolio including men’s, women’s and children’s footwear, apparel and accessories. Converse product is sold globally by retailers in over 160 countries and through 92 company-owned retail locations in the U.S. For more information, please visit Converse online at media.converse.com.



Emblems of the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games


2020 Olympic Emblems

Tokyo 2020 Unveils the Emblems of the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games Symbolising the Power of the World Coming Together as One

24 Jul. 2015 – Tokyo 2020 Unveils the Emblems of the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games Symbolising the Power of the World Coming Together as One

The Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee today held an event to unveil the official emblems of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Tokyo 2020’s Games Vision was further manifested as the emblems capture its core essence.

When the world comes together for Tokyo 2020, we will experience the joy of uniting as one team. By accepting everyone in the world as equals, we will learn the full meaning of coming together as one.

The Tokyo 2020 emblems were created to symbolise the power of this unity.

The black colour of the central column represents diversity, the combination of all colours. The shape of the circle represents an inclusive world in which everyone accepts each other. The red of the circle represents the power of every beating heart.

These elements combine to create the emblems of both the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Tokyo 2020 Olympic emblem is inspired by the T in
TOKYO
TOMORROW
TEAM

The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic emblem is inspired by = the universal sign of equality.

2020 is almost here.

Tokyo 2020 Olympic - Paralympic

Let’s unite in the spirit of these emblems to stage an Olympic and Paralympic Games for a better world and a brighter future.

Tokyo 2020 President Mori remarked, “The moment we have all been waiting for has finally arrived. The Tokyo 2020 Games emblems are a wonderful work of art that represent the aspirations and the ultimate goal that athletes around the world aim to achieve – taking part in the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The emblems are also symbols behind which the whole of Japan can unite as a single integrated body and join the collective endeavours of the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the national government, the Japanese Olympic Committee, the Japanese Paralympic Committee, the Japanese business community, as well as the Games volunteers and everyone who is assisting with the preparations for the 2020 Games. Let us all unite our efforts under the new Games emblems and work together as one to ensure the realisation of a truly inspirational Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2020.”

IOC Coordination Commission Chair John Coates said, “The Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games emblem is a powerful symbol of Tokyo’s Games vision. By embracing the concept of unity in diversity, it shows the unique ability of the Olympic Games to bring together people from all over the world in peace and harmony. Its inclusiveness and its representation of the power of the human heart is testament to the spirit in which the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games are being prepared. They will be a global celebration that we can all be a part of and enjoy.” He continued, “Most importantly, this emblem represents Tokyo and its people. It reflects the vibrant nature of the city and the welcoming spirit of its citizens – two elements that the Olympic athletes in 2020 will fully appreciate. I congratulate the Tokyo 2020 team on their work and believe that this emblem will have an important influence on the future of Olympic design.”

Andrew Parsons, Vice President of the International Paralympic Committee said: “I would like to thank and congratulate the Tokyo 2020 Organising Committee for developing this wonderful emblem. When the Paralympic Games return here for the second time they will do so with a growing reputation for being the world’s number one sporting spectacle for driving societal change. The performances of the para-athletes will not just inspire and excite the world, but act as a catalyst for a more inclusive society, here in Japan, across Asia and the whole world. The Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games will create a brighter tomorrow for millions of people around the world. This emblem, whilst paying testament to Japan’s rich heritage, will represent that brighter future and will become globally synonymous with sporting excellence and the incredible achievements of Paralympians.”

The designer of the emblems is Kenjiro Sano. Born in Tokyo in 1972, Sano is an art designer, who graduated from the Department of Graphic Design at Tama Art University. He is the founder of MR_DESIGN Inc., and is active in the fields of logo mark design, character design, graphic design, package design and advertising art direction. Sano has won numerous awards including the Yusaku Kamekura Design Award, the Mainichi Design Prize, the New York ADC Gold Award, the Cannes Lions Gold, the London D&AD Black Pencil, the One Show Design Gold Pencil, the Tokyo Art Directors Club Members’ Award, the Japan Package Association Gold Prize, and the Traffic Advertisement Grand Prize. Sano’s works are also featured in the permanent collection at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris.



2015 NPC USA Championships in Las Vegas


2015 NPC USA

Hundreds of National Physique Committee (NPC) competitors will hit the stage in Las Vegas, Nevada in hopes of reaching the big league. When the lights go out on July 25th, there will be 53 new IFBB Pros. This two-day event will feature Men and Women’s Bodybuilding, Men and Women’s Physique, Bikini and Figure. The action gets starts at 12pm(PST) on Friday with the Men’s Bodybuilding, Women’s Physique and Bikini prejudging. Saturday’s prejudging begins at 9am (PST) with Women’s Bodybuilding, Men’s Physique & Figure. All division finals get underway at 5pm (pst) at Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall in Las Vegas, Nevada.

WHEN:
July 24 – 25, 2015

WHERE:
Artemus W. Ham Concert Hall
4505 Maryland Pkwy.
Las Vegas, Nevada

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
FRIDAY – July 24, 2015
10:45am – Men’s Bodybuilding Meeting
12:00pm – Men’s Bodybuilding Prejudging
12:00pm – Women’s Physique Meeting followed by Women’s Physique Prejudging
2:30pm – Bikini Meeting followed by Bikini Prejuding

SATURDAY – July 25, 2015
8:00am – Women’s Bodybuilding Meeting
8:30am – Men’s Physique Meeting
9:00am – Women’s Bodybuilding Prejudging
9:00am – Men’s Physique Prejudging
10:00am – Figure Meeting followed by Figure Prejudging
3:45pm – ALL COMPETITORS MEETING
5:00pm – FINALS ALL DIVISIONS

TICKET PRICES:
PREJUDGING: Men BB/Bikini/Women’s Physique – $50 – Open Seating
Women’s BB/Figure/Men’s Physique – $50 – Open Seating ALL
FINALS: $100 – $75 – $55 – All Seats Reserved



Lindsey Valenzuela Partners with HumanX by Harbinger


lindsey valenzuela

HumanX by Harbinger Proudly Signs Professional CrossFit Athlete Lindsey Valenzuela as Brand Ambassador
An elite level CrossFitter, Lindsey brings strength, power, and spirit to the HumanX team
FAIRFIELD, CALIF. – HumanX by Harbinger, makers of specialized functional training gear, is proud to announce the addition of CrossFit champ Lindsey Valenzuela to their growing team of sponsored athletes.

Lindsey is an accomplished Olympic lifter and elite level CrossFit competitor, making her a perfect addition to the HumanX team. Her superwoman strength, competitive drive and determination, and easy-going demeanor have made her a favorite among CrossFit fans everywhere.

“Lindsey’s talents and accomplishments are only part of the package,“ says Chanin Cook, HumanX’s Director of Marketing. “She is truly “the peoples’ champion” – extremely down-to-earth, personable and the embodiment of strength and power. These are the qualities we look for in our athlete ambassadors to best represent the HumanX by Harbinger brand.”

A competitive CrossFitter for the last 5 years, Lindsey’s accomplishments include:
• 2nd place – 2014 Kill Cliff East Coast Championships
• 1st place – 2014 OC Throwdown
• Team USA – 2013 CrossFit Invitational
• 2nd place finish at the CrossFit Games in 2013
Most recently she placed 2nd in Reebok CrossFit California Regional, and will compete for the podium at the 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games next week in Carson, Calif.

“I discovered Olympic weightlifting while playing collegiate volleyball. I used the lifts as my off-season strength program. When I finished college, I became a competitive Olympic weightlifter and through that, discovered the sport of CrossFit,” says Lindsey. “I now use CrossFit to satisfy my competitive spirit, and am very thankful to be an elite athlete partnering with companies like HumanX by Harbinger. The motto I swear by is simple, BELIEVE and that’s what I’m taking to the Games next week!”

About HumanX by Harbinger
HumanX by Harbinger is a line of high performance gear from Harbinger, the fitness company known as the “go to” brand for weightlifting and conditioning gear for over 25 years. HumanX products meet the demand for functional training tools in today’s evolved fitness market, with a focus on high intensity, multi-discipline programming.

The HumanX product line includes Speed Ropes, Kettlebell Arm Guards, Red Line Wrist Wraps, 20# Weight Vest, Gloves, GRIPS, AbX and Foam Core Belts. HumanX gear is found in gyms and sporting goods retailers worldwide. For more information, visit www.humanxgear.com.

Photo Courtesy HumanX.



Under Armour Partners with USA Boxing


Under Armour Announces Official Partnership with USA Boxing through 2020 Olympic Games
Innovation Leader to Outfit All USA Boxing Divisions with Customized Apparel and Footwear
BALTIMORE, MD (July 21, 2015) – Under Armour (NYSE: UA) and USA Boxing announced today that the Baltimore, MD-based leader in athletic performance and innovation has been named the official performance partner of USA Boxing and will provide athletes at all levels of competition – Youth, Junior Olympic and Elite – with head-to-toe apparel and footwear. Under Armour will outfit the entire team with training and competition gear for the next six years, including the 2016 and 2020 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and Tokyo, respectively.

In an effort to help elevate USA Boxing’s performance in training and competition, Under Armour has developed a custom collection of boxing gear featuring Armourvent® technology that has been rigorously tested for high intensity action to maximize effectiveness in the ring. Under Armour has also developed the UA ClutchFitâ„¢ Title Hunter boxing boot which utilises UA ClutchFit technology to give each boxer a flexible feel with locked-in support enabling every movement.

“This partnership reflects the multitude of core values that Under Armour shares with USA Boxing, including Passion, Integrity and Will. Both our organizations exist to make all athletes better,” said Peter Murray, Vice President, Global Brand & Sports Marketing at Under Armour. “We are honored to support USA Boxing’s incredible legacy of building champions on the Olympic stage and beyond, as we work together to help strengthen the sport in the U.S. grassroots to elite levels.”

“USA Boxing is proud to partner with Under Armour, who has demonstrated a relentless commitment to supporting young athletes by providing them with the world’s most innovative performance gear. We look forward to many shared successes through the 2020 Olympic Games,” said Mike Martino, Executive Director, USA Boxing.

USA Boxing team members first appeared in Under Armour® uniforms and footwear at the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada this past weekend. Additionally, Under Armour’s hometown of Baltimore will host USA Boxing’s second Trials Qualifying event September 7-12.

In addition to USA Boxing, Under Armour supports the Olympic pursuits of over 100 athletes from over 12 countries including USA Gymnastics, US Speedskating, Canada Rugby, Michael Phelps, Lindsey Vonn, Stephen Curry, Andy Murray and Jordan Spieth.

About Under Armour, Inc
Under Armour (NYSE: UA), the originator of performance footwear, apparel and equipment, revolutionized how athletes across the world dress. Designed to make all athletes better, the brand’s innovative products are sold worldwide to athletes at all levels. The Under Armour Connected Fitnessâ„¢ platform powers the world’s largest digital health and fitness community through a suite of applications: UA Record, MapMyFitness, Endomondo and MyFitnessPal. The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland.

About USA Boxing
USA Boxing’s mission is to enable United States’ athletes and coaches to achieve sustained competitive excellence, develop character, support the sport of boxing, and promote and grow Olympic style boxing in the United States. The responsibility of USA Boxing is not only to produce Olympic gold, but also oversee and govern every aspect of Olympic-style boxing in the United States. For more information on USA Boxing, go to www.usaboxing.org.



Women of the 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games


2015 Women of the CrossFit Games

This week the 2015 Reebok CrossFit® Games kick off in Carson, California and the women’s field is as strong as ever. Camille Leblanc-Bazinet is back to defend her title but she has some fierce competition. Camille has competed in the Games five times and finished in the top 10 four times. Two-time champ Annie Thorisdottir will be back after a second place finish to Leblanc last year. The 2013 champ, Sam Briggs will look to return to the podium but has been battling injuries throughout the year. Emily Bridgers showed tremendous potential in the Regionals and you can’t overlook rookie Brooke Ence. The three women who could shake things up on the podium are Margaux Alvarez, Lindsey Valenzuela and Dani Horan.

Women’s Open CrossFit® Games Winners:
2007 – Jolie Gentry
2008 – Caity Matter
2009 – Tanya Wagner
2010 – Kristan Clever
2011 – Annie Thorisdottir
2012 – Annie Thorisdottir
2013 – Samantha Briggs
2014 – Camille Leblanc-Bazinet

The Women of the 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games:
Annie Thorisdottir
Samantha Briggs
Camille Leblanc-Bazinet
Emily Bridgers
Brooke Ence
Michele Letendre
Kara Webb
Emily Abbott
Brooke Wells
Ragnheiður Sara Sigmundsdottir
Margaux Alvarez
Lindsey Valenzuela
Dani Horan
Alethea Boon
Carleen Mathews
Nicole Holcomb
Katrin Tanja Davidsdottir
Amanda Goodman
Anna Tunnicliffe
Chyna Cho
Kari Pearce
Tia-Clair Toomey
Jessica Core
Stacie Tovar
Jenn Jones
Cassidy Lance
Alessandra Pichelli
Carol-Ann Reason-Thibault
Denae Brown
Regan Huckaby
Elisabeth Akinwale
Kristin Holte
Maddy Myers
Whitney Gelin
Rebecca Voigt
Kelley Jackson
Sammy Wood
Alex Parker
Lindy Barber
Thuridur Erla Helgadottir

ESPN will air the 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games highlight shows this Fall. Schedule details will be released at a later date. ESPN Inc. is in its fifth year of presenting the CrossFit Games.

2015 Reebok CrossFit Games schedule: 

Date Time (ET) Event Networks  
Tues, July 21 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Masters and Teenagers ESPN3 Live
Wed, July 22 12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. & 6 p.m. – 10:40 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN3 Live
  12 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Masters and Teenagers  ESPN3 Live
Thurs, July 23 12 p.m. – 8 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Masters and Teenagers ESPN3 Live
Fri, July 24 12 p.m. – 11 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN3 Live
 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN, WatchESPN Live
Sat, July 25  10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN2, WatchESPN Tape
  12 p.m. – 3 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN, WatchESPN Tape
   3 p.m. – 6 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN, WatchESPN Live
  12 p.m. – 11:45 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN3 Live
Sun, July 26 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN2, WatchESPN Tape
  12 p.m. – 9 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual and Teams ESPN3 Live
  3 p.m. – 5 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Team Finals and Individual ESPN2, WatchESPN Live
  7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games: Individual Finals ESPN2, WatchESPN Live

*Schedule subject to change.



2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Competitors


2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Competitors
The 2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro/Am will take place this weekend at the Vancouver Convention Center. The IFBB Pro competition will feature Men and Women’s Physique, Figure, Fitness, Bikini, Men’s Open Bodybuilding and Men’s 212 Bodybuilding. Fans will get a chance to attend the expo on July 25 & 26th with an opportunity to meet the likes of Flex Lewis and Dana Linn Bailey.

UPDATE – RESULTS

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Competitors

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Men’s Bodybuilding Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Foud Abiad
Paola Almeida
Santana Anderson
Jon DeLarosa
Renaldo Gairy
Stefan Havlik
Kevin Jordan
Ron Partlow

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Men’s 212 Bodybuilding Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Patrick Bernard
Shaun Clarida
Derick Farnsworth
Mike Lynds
John Meadows
Carlos Rabiei

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Men’s Physique Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Setana Carroll
Chris Griffin
Mirko Maras
Chris Johnson
Eren Legend
Matt Pattison
Chris Pylypchuk
Aj Shukoori

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Fitness Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Chika Aluka
Caitlin Bailie
Sherry Boudreau
Debbie Fowler
Natalie Graziano
Tanji Johnson
Whitney Jones
Brittany Kanne
Dominique Matthews

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Figure Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Leah Berti
Jennifer Brown
Tanya Chartrand
Laura Davies
Swann Delarosa
Janaina Ferreira
Azaria Glaim
Erin Harding
Marie Natalie Janik
Candice John
Jessica MacMillan
Shelly Paton
Agnese Russo
Maria Scotland

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Bikini Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Juliane Andrade
Leigh Brandt
Valerie Cantin
Anne Marie Caravalho
Melissa Chanthaseng
Ebony Chipman
Anette DeLaRosa
Diana Grahm
Vladmira Krasova
Francesca Lauren
Cassandra Marshall
Anna Lee McKill
Nikki Preston
Alla Semenova
Sofia Tandilian
Nicole Vernig
Lindsey Waters

2015 IFBB Vancouver Pro Women’s Physique Competitors
Vancouver, Canada – July 25-26, 2015
Jodi Boam
Jeni Briscoe
Kristina Dybdahl-Farnsworth
Silvia Fraga Alves
Leah Johnson
Athena Signakis

EXPO HOURS:
SATURDAY JULY 25, 2015 – 9:00am – 10:00pm
SUNDAY JULY 26, 2015 – 10:00am – 4:00pm

SATURDAY JULY 25TH SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
9am – IFBB PRO PREJUDGING: IFBB MEN’S 212 BODYBUILDING, IFBB MEN’S OPEN BODYBUILDING
5pm – IFBB PRO FINALS: IFBB MEN’S 212 BODYBUILDING & IFBB MEN’S OPEN BODYBUILDING
IFBB PRO PREJUDGING: WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE, MEN’S PHYSIQUE, FIGURE, BIKINI, FITNESS

SUNDAY JULY 25TH SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
10am – IFBB PRO FINALS: WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE ROUTINES & AWARDS, MEN’S PHYSIQUE AWARDS, FITNESS ROUTINES, FIGURE AWARDS, BIKINI AWARDS, FITNESS AWARDS

Visit: www.vancouverproshow.com for more information.



2015 IFBB LA Pro Figure Results


LA PRO Figure ResultsThe 2015 IFBB LA Pro Figure results are in and Karina Grau won in unanimous fashion. Coming in second was Shalako Bradberry and rounding out the top three was Karen Noorlun. Dana Amrbose from Houston, Texas was fourth and Bojana Vasiljevic finished in fifth. The surprise of the night was Heather Dees finishing in eigth.

In the Masters’ competition Karen Noorlun took home the win.

 

2015 IFBB LA Pro Figure Open and Masters Results

2015 IFBB LA Pro Figure Results
Culver City, California – July 18, 2015
1. Karina Grau
2. Shalako Bradberry
3. Karen Noorlun
4. Dana Ambros
5. Bojana Vasiljevic
6. Arian Elizabeth
7. Carolyn Hudson Harris
8. Heather Dees
9. Kim Jones
10. Jill Dunn
11. Dawn Hinz Pugh
12. Linda Crossley
13. Candice John
14. Kassie Kemmis
15. Jennifer Taylor
16. Shianne Behan
16. Nancy Bowlin
16. Rachelle Carter
16. Clarissa Castaneda
16. Amber Crowder
16. Jessica Curry
16. Darcy DeFrees
16. Laura Donegan
16. Dawn Fernandez
16. Chrissy Garcia
16. Rhonda Jones
16. Olga Karavayeva
16. Jennifer Palazzo
16. Anissa Payne
16. Cinderella Richardson
16. May Strickland

2015 IFBB LA Pro Masters Figure Results
Culver City, California – July 18, 2015
1. Karen Noorlun
2. Carolyn Hudson Harris
3. Jennifer Taylor
4. Cinderella Richardson
5. Ginette Delhaus
6. Laura Donegan
7. Dawn Fernandez
8. Jessica Curry
9. Nancy Bowlin
10. May Strickland
11. Rhonda Jones
12. Chrissy Garcia
13. Anissa Payne

2015 IFBB LA PRO FIGURE PREJUDGING CALLOUTS:
IFBB LA Pro Figure Open First Callout:
Karina Grau
Dana Ambrose
Salako Bradberry
Heather Dees
Arian Elizabeth
Cryolyn Hudson Harris
Karen Noorlun
Bojana Vasiljevic

IFBB LA Pro Figure Open Second Callout:
Shianne Behan
Linda Crossley
Jill Dunn
Dawn Hinz Pugh
Candice John
Kim Jones
Olga Karavayeva

IFBB LA Pro Figure Open Final Callout:
Dana Ambrose
Karina Grau
Shalako Bradberry
Karen Noorlun
Bojana Vasiljevic

IFBB Los Angeles Figure Masters First Callout:
Jennifer Taylor
Cinderella Richardson
Carolyn Hudson Harris
Karen Noorlun
Ginette Delhaus

The top spot looks to be between Carolyn Hudson Harris and Karen Noorlun.

Prejudging Report via Ron Avidan



2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Results


IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup
Congratulations to Adriana Hill on winning the 2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro. Noy Alexander finished in second and added more points towards an Olympia qualification. Rounding out the top three was Nina Ross from the United Kingdom. Kira Neuman scored her second victory in a row. She has positioned herself as one of the rising stars in the division and could be a threat for the top spots in the Women’s Physique Showdown. Brazil’s Diogo Ferreira Montenegro locked in his first pro victory in the Men’s Physique Division.

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Results

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Bikini Results
Boca Raton, Florida – July 18, 2015
1. Adriana Hill
2. Noy Alexander
3. Nina Ross
4. Romina Basualdo
5. Vladimira Krasova
6. Jessica Renee
7. Bianca Berry
8. Nikola Weiterova
9. Adrienne Crenshaw
10. Ali Garcia
11. Amanda Otero
12. Liana Moroz
13. Meghan Duncan
14. Sandra Jokic
15. Angeles Burke
16. Jazmeen Hernandez
16. Samantha Maycock
16. Samantha Morris
16. Casey Samsel
16. Lisa Schimkat
16. Danielle Sereluca
16. Sofia Tandillian
16. Lindsey Waters

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Women’s Physique Results
Boca Raton, Florida – July 18, 2015
1. Kira Neuman
2. Eva Pogacnik
3. Silvia Alves Fraga
4. Jillian Reville
5. Andrea Holliday
6. Rosela Joseph
7. Elizabeth Bradshaw
8. Jill Dearmin
9. Jennifer Hernandez
10. Lisa Stark
11. Michele Horan
12. Carrie Simmons
13. Petra Mertl
14. Lisa Grasso
15. Karen Yoakam
16. Antoinette Downie
16. Roxanne Edwards
16. Sherri Gray
16. Rocio Guillen
16. Lisa Horrigan
16. Alicia Alfaro Mesa
16. Rikki Snead

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Men’s Physique Results
Boca Raton, Florida – July 18, 2015
1. Diogo Ferreira Montenegro
2. Mike Balan
3. Geobanny Paula
4. Michael Bevins
5. Greg Brant
6. Stephen Mass
7. Frank Griffin
8. David Gonzalez
9. Charles Chester
10. William Kitchen
11. Pierre Vuala
12. David Kampfe
13. David Dela Cruz
14. Chris Griffin
15. Setanta Carroll
16. Antoine Williams



2015 IFBB Los Angeles Pro Figure Competitors


2015 IFBB LA PRO Figure
UPDATE: SHOW RESULTS HERE
The 2015 IFBB Los Angeles Pro Figure competitor list has been released and it’s a stacked line up. Over 30 IFBB Figure Pros are slated to compete this weekend in Culver City, California. The winner earns a spot in the Figure Olympia line up. See who is slated to compete in July 18th show!

WHERE: Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 4117 Overland Avenue, Culver City, CA
PREJUDGING: 10am
FINALS: 5pm

2015 IFBB Los Angeles Pro Figure Competitors
Culver City, CA – July 18, 2015
Dana Ambrose
Shianne Behan
Nancy Bowlin
Shalako Bradberry
Rachelle Carter
Clarissa Castaneda
Linda Crossley
Amber Crowder
Jessica Curry
Heather Dees
Darcy DeFrees
Ginette Delhaes
Laura Donegan
Jill Dunn
Arian Elizabeth
Dawn Fernandez
Chrissy Garcia
Karina Grau
Dawn Hinz Pugh
Carolyn Hudson Harris
Candice John
Kim Jones
Rhonda Jones
Olga Karavayeva
Kassie Kemmis
Karen Noorlun
Jennifer Palazzo
Anissa Payne
Cinderella Richardson
May Strickland
Jennifer Taylor
Bojana Vasiljevic

2015 IFBB Los Angeles Pro Masters Figure Competitors
Culver City, CA – July 18, 2015
Nancy Bowlin
Jessica Curry
Laura Donegan
Arian Elizabeth
Dawn Fernandez
Chrissy Garcia
Carolyn Hudson Harris
Rhonda Jones
Karen Noorlun
Anissa Payne
Cinderella Richardson
May Strickland

Visit for more information.



2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Competitors


IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup
UPDATE: Show Results
The 2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro will be held on Saturday, July 18th in Boca Raton, Florida. The prejudging starts at 9:30am with the finals kicking off at 6pm. The IFBB Pro event will be held in conjunction with a NPC event at the Lynn University of Performing Arts.

This show has a stacked line up in the bikini and Women’s Physique divisions. A number of women are looking to earn points in the Olympia Point Series race and of course the win to automatically qualify them for the Olympia in September. Kira Neuman will look to make it two wins in a row in the Women’s Physique division and if she shows up like she did in Chicago, she has a great chance at doing so.

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Competitors

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Bikini Competitors
Boca Raton, Florida – July 18, 2015
Noy Alexander
Romina Basualdo
Bianca Berry
Angeles Burke
Adrienne Crenshaw
Meghan Duncan
Alison Garcia
Jazmeen Hernandez
Adriana Hill
Sandra Jokic
Vladimira Krasova
Samantha Maycock
Liana Moroz
Samantha Morris
Amanda Otero
Jessica Renee
Nina Ross
Casey Samsel
Lisa Schimkat
Danielle Sereluca
Sofia Tandilian
Lindsey Waters
Nikola Weiterova

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Competitors
Boca Raton, Florida – July 18, 2015
Silvia Alves Fraga
Elizabeth Bradshaw
Jill Dearmin
Antoinette Downie
Roxanne Edwards
Lisa Grasso
Sherri Gray
Rocio Guillen
Jennifer Hernandez
Andrea Holliday
Michel Horan
Lisa Horrigan
Rosela Joseph
Petra Mertl
Alicia Alfaro Mesa
Kira Neuman
Eva Pogacnik
Jillian Reville
Carrie Simmons
Lisa Stark
Karen Yoakum

2015 IFBB Prestige Crystal Cup Pro Men’s Physique Competitors
Boca Raton, Florida – July 18, 2015
Mike Balan
Michael Bevins
Greg Brant
Setanta Carroll
Charles Chester
David Dela Cruz
Diogo Ferreira Montenegro
David Gonzaliz
Chris Griffin
Frank Griffin
David Kampfe
William Kitchen
Stephen Mass
Geobanny Paula
Pierre Vuala
Antoine Williams

Visit prestigecrystalcup.com for more information.



WalletHub Study: 2015’s Best & Worst Cities for Recreation


With July being National Park and Recreation Month and America’s largest cities investing more than $6.4 billion on park and recreation in 2014, the leading personal finance website WalletHub conducted an in-depth analysis of 2015’s Best & Worst Cities for Recreation.To highlight the benefit of public spaces and recreational activities to consumers and the local economy, WalletHub compared the 100 largest U.S. cities across 27 key metrics. The data set ranges from parkland acreage to the number of attractions to average movie cost.
WalletHub Study: 2015’s Best & Worst Cities for Recreation

 

Best Cities for Recreation Worst Cities for Recreation
1 Cincinnati, OH 91 Anaheim, CA
2 Omaha, NE 92 Garland, TX
3 Scottsdale, AZ 93 Fremont, CA
4 Tampa, FL 94 North Las Vegas, NV
5 Boise City, ID 95 Chula Vista, CA
6 Orlando, FL 96 Hialeah, FL
7 Minneapolis, MN 97 Laredo, TX
8 St. Louis, MO 98 Irving, TX
9 Reno, NV 99 Newark, NJ
10 Denver, CO 100 Jersey City, NJ

Key Stats 

  • Madison, Wis., has 14 times as many park playgrounds per 100,000 residents as Hialeah, Fla.
  • The percentage of the population with walkable park access is 4 times higher in San Francisco than in Charlotte, N.C.
  • Washington spends 100 times more on parks per capita than Hialeah, Fla.
  • Seattle has 46 times as many coffee shops per 100,000 residents as Laredo, Texas.
  • The number of bike rental facilities per 100,000 residents is 28 times higher in San Francisco than in Tulsa, Okla.

For the full report and to see where your city ranks, please visit:
http://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-recreation/5144/



Top 3 Reasons Female Entrepreneurs Succeed


Top 3 Reasons Female Entrepreneurs Succeed
“We have seen a rise in female entrepreneurs, with over 15 million female entrepreneurs now in the United States,” says Carolin Soldo, Success Coach and Marketing Mentor. “As a coach to some of the country’s top business women, I have put together what I see as the top 3 reasons female entrepreneurs have all that it takes to be an entrepreneur.”

Businesses are Built on Solid Relationships 

“Women have the innate ability and drive to build relationships, which is critical when it comes to marketing, building teams, and working with their clients,” says Carolin. “Successful businesses thrive on healthy relationships and healthy relationships thrive on trust. Women naturally aim to cultivate trust and thereby organically grow their business through referrals and winning over potential clients.”

Gut Feeling Matters in Business

“Women are emotionally charged and often very in tune with their passions and purpose. They trust their intuition. While men focus on the structure and systems of a business, women have the ability to look inside themselves to find their true calling and purpose,” says Carolin. “This purpose and desire to follow their calling is what drives them to overcome challenges and struggles, which any entrepreneur faces in business. These experiences lead to greater persistence and the foundation of a ‘no matter what’ kind of attitude. Trusting their intuition also allows women to make decisions faster and take action.”

Selfless Attitude

“Women’s natural ability to assume the ‘caretaker’ role and give selflessly provides them with an edge. In today’s society, attracting clients to a business has more to do with giving than promoting and asking the client for money,” says Carolin. “Business success is now about showcasing what we have to offer, and providing freely without holding back, which will, in turn, cause our clients to be so much more willing and interested to work with us.”

Carolin Soldo is an Online Business and Marketing Coach with an MBA and a background of over 10 years in a high-powered corporate marketing career, Carolin’s Mission is to help passion based women entrepreneurs build their dream business and live a free and abundant lifestyle doing what they love, while making a difference in the world. Based on her own success story as an online health and fitness coach, she teaches business building, brand-identity, and online marketing strategy in her signature program From Passion to Profits™. Most importantly, she gives her clients the confidence they need to be fierce and visible in a really noisy online marketplace. With loving yet bottom-line focused advice, Carolin inspires the health and life coach community and women entrepreneurs around the world to take charge of their success and happiness by boosting their business skills, ridding themselves of limiting beliefs, and living free and abundant lives while making the impact they are here to make.



Joey Thurman’s Five Tips to Becoming A Celeb Trainer


Chicago’s top celeb trainer explains what you need to know:

There is no one more valuable on a celebrity’s trainer team than their fitness trainer. “When Chris Pratt went from ‘dad bod’ to ripped, his career skyrocketed,” explains Joey Thurman, model, celebrity fitness trainer, and nutrition expert, “He is starring in the most lucrative movie of all time, and it just couldn’t have happened without his trainer coaching him to physical perfection.”

But becoming a celeb trainer isn’t easy. It requires a unique set of skills and determination, explains Thurman. Here are his top five tips:

  1. First, you have to be willing to sweat with the best. “Listen,” says Thurman, ”It’s not enough for your body to be on point (although it definitely has to be). But you also have to be willing to sweat with your clients. Not only does this give them extra motivation, it helps them see the correct form and gives them something to work towards.”
  2. Second, you have to be able to keep secrets. “You are probably going to have to sign a non-disclosure agreement in order to work with a celeb,” he says, “As a trainer, you are going to be in their home and working with them intimately. You learn about everything from their health conditions to their sex life. So you gotta be able to stay professional and keep secrets.”
  3. Third, you have to be able to speak truth to power. “It can be really hard to tell a beautiful and powerful actress that her abs need major work, but that is part of the job. I don’t believe in wasting time on tact or being phony. I tell my clients the truth, even when it could be painful to hear, and even when I could get fired because of it. At the end of the day, they respect my integrity.”
  4. Fourth, you have to stay current. “Celebs always want to know about the latest and the greatest thing. They want to be on the top of every trend, whether it’s something like SoulCycle, Bikram Yoga, Barre, juice cleanses, b-12 shots, you name it. All of those trends started in L.A.and N.Y.C. with celebs, and then they spread to the rest of the nation,” explains Thurman, “In today’s landscape, that means being on the holistic train as well. People are shying away from Western medicine a bit. They don’t want to turn to drugs for everything. As a trainer, you can be a fountain of knowledge for everything from vitamins to herbs to acupuncture to massage.”
  5. Fifth, you have to know celebrities! “You can’t work with celebrities if you don’t know any,” laughs Thurman, “So get yourself out there. Network. Go to events. Get a publicist. Have a strong media presence. Hustle, hustle, hustle!”

 

About Joey Thurman:

Joey Thurman is a health, fitness, nutrition expert and the creator of The Lifestyle Renovation, a website dedicated to helping people achieve their health and fitness goals. Joey was named the best trainer in Chicago by the Chicago Sun Times in 2015 and NEWBEAUTY.com‘s top 3 favorite celebrity trainers. He has appeared on CBS, WGN, FOX, ABC and WCIU sharing his insights as a celebrity fitness trainer, published author and nutrition expert. Joey’s work has been featured in publications such as U.S. News and World Report, NPR, People Magazine, Livestrong.com, BodyBuilding.com, Inspiyr, TimeOut Chicago, RedEye, American Global Traveler, CaliDiet, Chicago Sun Times, and Brazen Women.   Joey is a fashion model represented by Chosen Model Management where he works with brands including Neiman Marcus, Abercrombie, Jockey, Kohl’s, and Carson Pirie Scott. He has also appeared on the covers of Healthy for Men and TimeOut Chicago. Joey is a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), a Fitness Nutrition Specialist (FNS), a Certified Corporate Nutrition Professional (CCNP) and a FITchef. Fitness Reel:  http://youtu.be/2ljeGMEhSME



Reebok and UFC partner with DraftKings for UFC 189


Reebok Fight Kit
Reebok and UFC partner with DraftKings for UFC 189 **This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links

Reebok, the official athletic footwear and apparel partner of the UFC, will also be partnering with DraftKings to run a fantasy UFC game for UFC 189: Mendes vs. McGregor on the night of July 11th.

This highly anticipated fight will debut Reebok’s UFC Fight Kit from their new Fight Shop.

DraftKings is a major online fantasy gaming site with brand partnerships including UFC, MLB, and other US pro sports leagues and teams. Prize for the game will include:

• Cash prize contributed by Draft Kings
• Shopping spree or gear pack from Reebok’s online Fight Shop

Rousey ReebokKing Reebok

Paige Reebok

Images via Reebok.com



2015 IFBB Patriots Pro Bikini Results


IFBB Patriots Pro Bikini Results

The IFBB Patriots Pro Prejudging took place this morning at the Orleans hotel and convention center in Las Vegas, Nevada. The judges had their hands full with a tough line-up in both the open and Masters Pro Bikini competition. After prejudging it looked to be Rachelle DeJean, Angela Marquez, Justine Munro and Noy Alexander in the top spots.

When the final results were announced it was Justine Munro with the win. The judges gave Tamara Haddad and Noy Alexander an extra long look at the finals but ultimately Tamara prevailed for the second place spot.

Iveth Carreon of El Paso, Texas won the Masters Bikini competition.

2015 IFBB Patriots Pro Bikini Results
Las Vegas, Nevada – July 4, 2015
1. Justine Munro
2. Tamara Haddad
3. Noy Alexander
4. Angela Marquez
5. Rachelle DeJean
6. Amanda Otero
7. Nina Simone Ross
8. Crystal Rose Matthews
9. Lisa Asuncion
10. Iveth Carreon
11. Harriet Davis
12. Michelle Mein
13. Liana Moroz
14. Caryn Paolini
15. Vicki Counts
16. Emma Fernandez
16. Michon Leddy
16. Anna Lee McKill
16. Lori Micheff
16. Angelika Perez
16. Lisa Roy
16. Sofia Tandilian
16. Nikola Weiterova

2015 IFBB Patriots Pro Masters Bikini Results
Las Vegas, Nevada – July 4, 2015
1. Iveth Carreon
2. Harriet Davis
3. Michelle Mein
4. Vicki Counts
5. Ann Lee McKill
6. Lori Micheff
7. Emma Fernandez
8. Michon Leddy
9. Lisa Roy



DAY 2: IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Results


2015 IFBB Chicago ProDay two at the IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro featured Women’s Physique, Fitness and Men’s Open Bodybuilding. In the Fitness Division it looked like defending champ, Fiona Harris was in the driver’s seat for a repeat win. When the scores were released she not only won the 2-piece round but also the routine round (both in unanimous fashion).

Kia Neuman brought a streamlined physique to the Women’s Physique division and dominated on the judges’ scorecard with a unanimous victory. Mikaela Soto finished fifth in the open and won the Women’s Physique Masters competition.

Jon DeLaRosa and Michael Lockett were a lock for the top two spots after prejudging. The internet weighed in with their votes on who would win with the keyboard judges split on the decision. When the IFBB Pro League judges tallied their scores it was Jon Delarosa who was crowned the victor. Michael Lockett was second and Akim Williams rounded out the top three.

Women’s Bodybuilding and Men’s 212 results. 2015 IFBB Chicago Pro Figure Results.

DAY 2: IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Results

IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Fitness Results
Chicago, IL – July 4, 2015
PLACE – NAME – 2piece Score – Routine Score – Total
1. Fiona Harris 5 – 10 – 15
2. Kristine Duba 10 – 22 – 32
3. Marta Agular 15 – 30 – 45
4. Danielle Chikeles 20 – 70 – 90
5. Yanina Terragni 37 – 54 – 91
6. Shannon Siemer 25 – 70 – 95
7. Stacy Dawn 30 – 72 – 102
8. Holly Semanoff 50 – 64 – 114
9. Natalie Graziano 45 – 70 – 115
10. Maria Laura Cerbelli 40 – 80 – 120
11. Susana Cacavieli 53 – 108 – 161

IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Women’s Physique Results
Chicago, IL – July 4, 2015
1. Kira Nieuman
2. Sheronica Henton
3. Mindi O’Brien
4. Kristina Dybdahl-Farnsworth
5. Mikaila Soto
6. Melissa DiBernadro
7. Margarita Charaim
8. La’Drissa Bonivel
9. Mica Schneider
10. Miava Nelson
11. Geri Villalona
12. Andrea Holliday
13. Raquel Ramos
14. Pamela Slemmons
15. Marcia Simmons
16. Rose Brunner
16. Laura Foster
16. Caroline Gaume
16. Asha Hadley
16. Tracy Hess
16. Melissa Lasage
16. Jen Louwagie
16. Tracy Mason
16. Nikechi Nwafor-Robinson
16. Lisa Marie Sanders
16. Nathalie Thompson
16. Roxanne Edwards

IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Women’s Masters Physique Results
Chicago, IL – July 4, 2015
1. Mikaila Soto
2. La’Drissa Bonivel
3. Mica Schneider
4. Pamela Slemmons
5. Andrea Holliday
6. Nathalee Thompson
7. Rose Brunner
8. Nikechi Nwafor-Robinson
9. Tracy Hess
10. Caroline Gaume
11. Roxanne Edwards
12. Lisa Sanders
13. Tracy Mason

IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Men’s Bodybuilding Results
Chicago, IL – July 4, 2015
1. Jon DeLaRosa
2. Michael Lockett
3. Akim Williams
4. Kevin Jordan
5. Renaldo Gairy
6. Brad Rowe
7. Jeff Long
8. Marshel Herman
9. Mike Dragna
10. Timmy Gaillard
11. Keith Williams
12. Brad Davis
13. Eboni Wilson
14. Michael Ely



2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Results


IFBB Chicago Pro Results
The Women’s Bodybuilding portion was won by Helle Trevino. The Masters Women’s Bodybuilding victory went to Rita Bello. Complete updates from the 2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro…

Figure Results can be found here. Men’s Bodybuilding, Women’s Physique and Fitness results can be found here.

2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Women’s Bodybuilding Results
July 3, 2015 – Chicago, IL
1. Helle Trevino
2. Rita Bello
3. Virgina Sanchez Macias
4. Isabel Turell
5. Angela Ryaburn
6. Judy Gallard
7. Irene Anderson
8. Margie Martin
9. Lora Ottenad

2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Women’s Masters Bodybuilding Results
July 3, 2015 – Chicago, IL
1. Rita Bello
2. Virginia Sanchez Macias
3. Angela Rayburn
4. Judy Gallard
5. Lora Ottenad

2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Men’s 212 Bodybuilding Results
July 3, 2015 – Chicago, IL
1. Craig Richardson
2. Tricky Jackson
3. Oliver Adzievski
4. Shelby Starnes
5. Mike Ergas
6. Quincy Winklaar
7. Derik Farnsworth
8. Hunni Glanville
9. Darron Glenn
10. Freddie McCray
11. Guy Ducasse
12. Craig Licker
13. Kevin Ofurum



2015 IFBB Chicago Pro Figure Results – Cydney Gillon Wins!


IFBB Chicago Pro Results
2015 IFBB Chicago Pro Figure Results – Cydney Gillon Wins! Congratulations to Cydney Gillon on winning her second IFBB Chicago Figure Pro title. She was the unanimous choice on the judges’ scorecard and with the win heads back to the Figure Olympia stage in Las Vegas. Cydney is one of the brightest new stars of the IFBB Figure Pro division with a tiny waist and round shoulders. She has incredible shape and look for her to be a threat to the top six at the Olympia. Coming in second, for the second time, was California’s Wendy Fortino. Wendy was the bridesmaid in this contest last year. Rounding out the top spots were Jessica Morgan in third, Bojana Vasilijevic in fourth and Maggy Cambronero in fifth.

2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Figure Results
Chicago, IL – July 3, 2015
1. Cydney Gillon
2. Wendy Fortino
3. Jessica Morgan Canty
4. Bojana Vasilijevic
5. Maggy Cambronero
6. Laurelle Martineau
7. Chaya Boone
8. Christina Watson
9. Swann De La Rosa
10. Tissilli Rogers
11. Kimberly Jones
12. Linda Andrew
13. Holly Mitchell
14. Agnes Russo
15. Andrea Paynter
16. Maria Carlone
16. Kim Clark
16. Jolene Fonseca
16. Jennifer Freeman
16. Angie Garcia
16. Dawn Hinz Pugh
16. Vanessa Jacobs
16. Nicole Kupser
16. Jessica MacMillan
16. Jennifer Palazzo
16. Rachel Payne
16. Melanise Pettee
16. Tara Ramos
16. Dawn Reichley
16. Danielle Schemm
16. Nadia Wyatt

2015 IFBB Wings of Strength Chicago Pro Masters Figure Results
Chicago, IL – July 3, 2015
1. Linda Andrew
2. Agnes Russo
3. Kim Clark
4. Dawn Reichley
5. Vanessa Jacobs
6. Melanise Pettee
7. Jennifer Freeman
8. Rachel Payne
9. Maria Carlone



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