2008 Arnold Blog

The women’s show took place last night and there were a few surpsises. Let’s start with the women’s bodybuilding…

The biggest news hit fans when defending champ, Iris Kyle failed to make the top six. Iris finished in seventh place when the dust cleared. You may be wondering why the defending champ fell so far down in the placings. It was obvious when I shot the prejudging that there were more than a couple indications Iris could and should be knocked down in the judging. Why? Well, despite her being called out in the top 3-5 at the prejudging, the judges felt they needed to send a message. What message? I spoke with a couple judges after the show and they informed me that Iris was out of the top six because of the marks on her physique. If you look at the photos, pay attention to her shoulders and her buttocks… You’ll see what I am talking about.

Congrats to Yaxeni for winning the Ms. International. When I saw her at prejudging, I had her pegged as the champ. She looked great and brought the physique we have grown to love when she brings it. She was in excellent condition and brought great symmetry combined with just enough mass, to the stage.

As predicted, Gina Aliotti walked away with victory in the Figure International. I’m a huge fan of Gina’s and she never looked better than she did last night. She presented a balanced physique with just enough hardness to reign supreme. Jennifer Gates showed that a competitor can change drastically in three weeks. I had a sneak peak at what Jen was looking like before the show and I thought she was behind in her prep. I ate my words of predicting her fourth and knew when I saw her at the check-in Thursday that she was ready. Jenn presented a very balanced physique and look amazing. You can see her on the next issue of Muscle & Fitness Hers in a couple weeks. Paola Almerico grabbed a top six placing which was a tremendous accomplishment from her. The most overlooked competitor had to be Juliana Malacarne. I know the judges probably thought she was still too muscular but overall, she is still the most balanced competitor on the figure stage. She has it all from top to bottom when it comes to rock’n the figure stage. Amy Fry landed in third, as I predicted, and looked great. She towered over her competition but showed why she is one of the best competitors in the biz today by bringing a balanced physique to the stage.

Fitness super star Kim Schiedler rocked the stage in Columbus. I hope I spelled her last name right as her father corrected me a couple times backstage on her name. Those who aren’t aware, Kim has had a number of personal issues to deal with while prepping for this show. I won’t go into great detail but long story short, she is getting a divorce and dealing with the stress attached to that. Kim’s physique was much improved from the Olympia and you could tell she was much happier. Her routine was reflective of where she’s at in her personal life, check out the webcast to see it. Jen Hen was in second and I love Jen but I honestly wasn’t that impressed with what she brought this time around. She looked good in the physique rounds and her routine was funny and full of high energy but had too much dancing and booty shaking for my liking. I’d like to see more strength moves and less dancing out of her, but it was still fun to watch and photograph. The biggest gift in the show was given to Julie Palmer in my opinion. I love Jules as a person and this no knock on her but she was not a top three competitor in this show, at least from my vantage point. Her physique was good in prejudging and she placed well in those rounds. I thought her routine had too much set up and was a little hoaky. I didn’t feel as though her routine was that good and I would have her out of the top ten when it came to the routine rounds, but I’m not a judge and making those calls. The judges liked what they saw and placed her high in the routines. Julie Lohre has never looked better and brought a great routine and physique to the stage. She should have been second in my opinion but again I’m not a judge. Oksana was highly favored by many going into this show and while she performed a great routine her physique looked the worst I’ve seen from her since hitting the pro show. Her waist is a little too wide and it looked like she was overdieted. I’d like to see her add some size to her shoulders and improver her lats to give the illusion of a smaller waist.

I’m off to the expo to do some more videos with some of the IFBB’s hottest women. Check back for more info, photos and videos through out the weekend.

The Preliminary results from all 3 of the Ms International contests (Ms. Int’l, Figure Int’l, Fitness Int’l) are now available on our 2008 Arnold Results Page:

http://contest.bodybuilding.com/results/2542

Female Bodybuilding:

1 - Yaxeni Oriquen
2 - Dayana Cadeau
3 - Lisa Aukland
4 - Betty Pariso
5 - Brenda Raganot
6 - Cathy LeFrancois

Figure:

1 - Gina Aliotti
2 - Jennifer Gates
3 - Amy Fry
4 - Chastity Slone
5 - Sonia Adcock
6 - Paola Almerico

Fitness:

1 - Kimberly Klein
2 - Jen Hendershott
3 - Julie Palmer
4 - Julie Lohre
5 - Tracey Greenwood
6 - Regiane Da Silva

A heartfelt congratulations to IFBB Figure Pro Gina Aliotti and IFBB Fitness Pro Kim Klein for winning their respective Figure International and Fitness International contests!  =)

I caught up with IFBB fitness pro, Tracey Greenwood a couple days out from the Fitness International. Tracey is no stranger to this show and is looking to break into the top three. She’s not revealing what her routine is going to be (shocker) but she’s certain to bring her strength and energy to the stage.

How’s your Arnold Prep been going?
Overall it has been great, an occasional bump in the FLU road but I am more than ready!

Did you do anything different for this show vs. The Olympia?
I focused on really trying to come in smaller in my upper body.

What’s the biggest challenge while getting ready for a show?
Juggling teaching and training. So many of the students are sick and still come to class.  It was very hard to remain healthy.

Will you be doing the Wonderwoman/Spiderwoman routine at the Arnold?
Nope!  I have a brand new routine. You will have to wait and see……

What’s your routine going to have?
Flaming swords (HA) just kidding.  

You haven’t been partying with your crazy uncle and mooning anyone lately have you?
No, I try to stay away from the family while training. They are trouble!!

Do you enjoy lifting heavy or do you train lighter and higher reps?
Oh Isaac…..I LOVE lifting heavy weight but there is NO way I can unless I want to be on stage with Iris!

Hmmm… Perhaps we’ll see Tracey on stage as a bodybuilder?

Who motivates you?
I get all of my inspiration from the Lord.  He is the only man I need in my life.

What’s your goal for the 2008 season?
Well, how I would love to break the top 3 in a big show… but staying injury free is most important and being an inspiration to up and comers.

When will we see you on stage after the Arnold?
Maybe the Europa and definitely Atlantic City and Olympia

Do you feel like you can surpass Hendershott and Klien, the two favorites in the show?
Well, if there is one thing I have learned after 8 years in this sport is NEVER say NEVER.  I train for myself. To look and perform the best I can….let the chips fall where they may.

Do you pay attention to what the critics say online?
I never go on the boards!  I do not even know what they are saying.  WHY WHAT ARE THEY SAYING????  haha just kidding….don’t care!

You haven’t injured your thumb have you?
Not today

How do you stay motivated after competing for a number of years?
It is difficult but I have a deep passion for this sport so it keeps me going.  

As a veteran do you feel you have an advantage over some of the rookies?
I do not think anyone has advantage over anyone.  

Where can fans find out more info about you?
www.traceygreenwood.com

Any one you’d like to thank?
JM Manion, Mike Davies, Kevin Creegan

Good luck Tracey! See ya in Columbus.
Can’t wait to see ya

Julie Palmer ended 2007 with a win at the West Palm Beach show and is gunning for more in ‘08. She’s consistently in the top 6 of every show she enters and this weekend should be no different. Her physique holds it’s own with the best and her routines have improved every year. Two days out from the Fitness International she let’s us know a bit of what’s crack’n in the land of Palmer.

How’s your Arnold Prep been going?
It is going great. I am really excited to get on stage again. I look the best I have looked and my routines are improved even more this time around.

Did you do anything different for this show vs. The Olympia?
I just continued to really work on improving my routines and making them cleaner and more precise.

How about the West Palm Beach - anything different from that?
Miss 2x champ!  

What’s the biggest challenge while getting ready for a show?
The biggest challenge for me is trying to make sure I get everything done that needs to be done.  

Will you be bringing a car to the Arnold stage?
No car this time but maybe a few balls.

What type of diet do you follow the last week of a show?
I follow the diet I am on the week prior to the show. I do not change anything going into the show regarding my diet. If I need to change anything I actually may eat just a little bit more so I don’t go flat the day of the show. I am a busy body every day so I just try to stick to my normal routine.  

Who motivates you?
I think my biggest motivation comes from myself. I do not want to fail at anything that I attempt to do.   I have always been a perfectionist and I am motivated by trying to be better every time that I step on the stage. My peers also motivate me because I know that I am a role model for many other women out there and I try to lead by example and show them that if you give 100% and believe in yourself than anything is possible no matter what your goals are.

What do you do when you’re not training or eating chicken?
Hmm.. I am probably eating Chicken.. Just kidding. I work as a trainer for The Fitness Factory, work as a RN at Nationwide Childrens Hospital and do all the administrative work for The Fitness Factory.  

You’ve been open about enjoying to diet because it forces you to eat and stick to a plan. Do you still struggle with eating?
Yes I do, I dread the week of a show because I know the following weeks mean that I have to deal with my “off-season”. I know that I probably eat cleaner than most people do in their off-season but for me it is a battle. I like structure and knowing that their is a show in so many weeks.  

When will we see you on stage after the Arnold?
That is a good question. I have a guest performance in New Jersey in May.  I love competing but I have not discussed any shows with Mike yet. Maybe Atlantic City?? And then of course the Olympia for sure.

Do you still get nervous before going on stage?
Yes at times, mostly before the routine rounds.  

What’s your favorite part about competing in fitness?
I love getting ready for shows. I love watching my body change from week to week. I love the challenge of trying to be a better athlete.

Do you have any advice for the rookies, considering you’re now a veteran to this sport?
I would tell them to have fun more than anything. This is a hobby and a passion.  Enjoy every minute of it.

Where will you be working during the Olympia weekend?
I will be at the GNC Pro Performance booth.

Where can fans find out more info about you?
julie@juliepalmer.com

Any one you’d like to thank?
Mike Davies and his boys Daryian and Trent for being my biggest support team and believing in me.  Jenny Borda, my gymnastics instructor who has helped me a ton and also to all of my clients and friends at Metro Fitness.

Good luck Julie! See ya in Columbus

Julie will be taking the fitness stage in two days for her Arnold debut. I caught up with Julie for an interview to get an idea how her off-season has gone and what we can expect to see in Columbus. The interview is currently featured on the FLEXONLINE.com.

Check it out here. Good Luck Julie!

Stacy was kind enough to take a minute to answer a few questions. She’s jose’n for a carb and a glass of wine but hey only a few more days to go before she’s rock’n it on the fitness stage again. Stacy has some of the freakiest flexibility in the biz and fans will be treated to another version of it on Friday.

How’s your Arnold Prep been going?
So far, my prep is going well!  My state of mind is completely different now than it has been for any other show…and that’s a good thing!

Did you do anything different for this show vs. The Olympia and West Palm Beach?
My close friend “guru” Mike Cox (owner of Xtreme Nutrition) did tweak quite a few things from the last two shows. It’s a secret, but at the same token, I am a work in progress.

Last time I talked to you, you were a little under the weather. Did you kick that cold’s ass and did it set you back in your training?
“Hell to the yeah!” I was able to get rid of that friggin’ cold! That’s one of the interesting things about Jersey…the weather’s been 65 degrees one week, and a snow storm within a 5 day period. I have learned the importance of rest when your body needs it.  So, I really didn’t get too thrown off with my training.

What’s the biggest challenge while getting ready for a show?
The biggest challenge would be adjusting my new work schedule so as not to get behind in my meals throughout the day.

Any insight on what we’ll be seeing from you in terms of your routine?
Hmmmm, my routine is different from what I’m used to performing. It’s got some of my trademark moves, but I feel that my choreographer was able to figure something out that works well with me and my presentation.

We can expect to see your freaky flexibility arm move right?
Of course! I’ve gotten some slack about my “arm move.” But, the way I look at it is that everyone has something that makes them an individual.  If I were to get rid of my signature moves, that would be like asking Jenny H. to “tone down” the excitement & energy she’s know for in her routines.  It’s a matter of developing a more well rounded presentation. And, it’s possible to keep my moves in while kicking it up a notch. There’s no such thing as not having anything left to improve upon, in my opinion.

Do you enjoy lifting heavy or do you train lighter and higher reps?
I pretty much have an unconventional way of training.  I am really into shocking my body so as not to plateau or become board.

What type of diet do you follow the last week of a show?
The last week of my show????? Uuuuugghhh, somebody please give me some flavor!!! That just about sums it up!  Oh yeah, a glass of wine would be nice too!

Who motivates you?
There are so many things that motivate me, that I don’t know where to start. One of the main things is the strength and drive of my father.  He’s battling a terrible disease as we speak, and I feel that he epitomizes strength and determination.  Additionally, I feel as though I have not even come close to reaching my pinnacle.  

What’s your goal for the 2008 season?
My goal so far, is to present my most complete package at the Arnold (and of course, still have fun). And, it’d be nice to crack the top 10 at the Olympia. It’s my 11th consecutive qualification, and I’ve only placed top 10 once.

When will we see you on stage after the Arnold?
Hmmm, it depends on how fat my “backyard” gets!  Just kiddin!! I’m not exactly sure, but I definitely need some time to recover and enjoy life.

You’ve been on the Arnold Stage before, any advice for the rookies?
Have fun!!!! Don’t be discouraged and just realize that even receiving an invitation, is a major accomplishment in itself!

Do you still get nervous before going on stage?
I get excited before I go on stage. I’ve been performing since I was 6 yrs old, and alway look forward to it.

What’s your favorite part about competing in fitness?
Setting my own personal goals, achieving them….and having my glass(es) of wine & Jack w/ Diet Coke afterward!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Do you pay attention to what the critics say online?
In the beginning yeah, I did. But, what it boils down to, is your own sense of self appreciation and how you look when staring at your own reflection.  I have not allowed the industry to change the person I am and will always stay true to myself.

Will we see you compete in Figure?
I haven’t done a figure competition, but I’d probably do a bodybuilding show before I retire.

Where can fans find out more info about you?
www.stacysimons.com

Any one you’d like to thank?
I have a long list. Here it goes! I definitely wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for God; my parents (Frank & LaVerne); my grandmother; Mike for kicking my butt & being a true friend; Kevin…I love you to no end and couldn’t be happier; Carrie for being my best friend & always being there; Dino & Nicole from Extreme Fitness for giving me a place to call home;  CJ (I’d be competing w/ fig leaves…if it weren’t for her helping me!) & John Kemper (for encouraging me way back in ‘97 to continue), Alicia from the Gymnastics Academy for giving me a kick a$$ routine; Lloyd for being a dear friend; and anyone else I may have not had enough room to include….I love you guys!!

Good luck Stacy! See ya in Columbus
Thanx for everything & I hope to put on a good show!!!

I caught up with IFBB Fitness Pro, Tanya Merryman days out from her debuts. She tells me on top of training for her first pro show, she has a new full-time job (she was promoted the week before NPC Nationals), 2 kids and a daycare that is close this week. Tanya goes on to tell me she hasn’t slept much and is on a roller coaster of emotions.

Tanya asks, “Can anyone tell me if throwing up will make it all go away?”

I don’t know if hurling will make the stress go away but Tanya will be making her pro debut this weekend on one of the biggest stages a pro can make. Tanya shares why she decided to compete in the NPC over other organizations, why she loves fitness and more.

How’s your Arnold Prep been going?
Crazy, nonstop trying to juggle my new job 45min away, my first pro-show, and two kids (2 and 10yrs old), and running to see my routine coach 30 minutes away. It has been an 8-week journey for me getting ready for the Arnold.

Do you feel you’ve had time to improve since turning pro at NPC Nationals?
Yes, My injuries are so MUCH better and my routine has increased in difficulty due to less injuries.  I can actually do the splits now, but we kept some modifications in since I was still babying my hamstring up
until last week.

Last we spoke you were in the mountains and weren’t expecting an Arnold invite. How did you hear of the news you were invited?
Everyone was sending me text messages and congratulating me.  I was shocked!!

What’s the biggest challenge while getting ready for a show?
Juggling my day job, my home-life, and trying to fit in enough training time.

You were known for your routines back in the day, will you be bringing that to the Arnold stage?
I have a lot that I want to accomplish in my routines, so I still have a ways to go and consider this a challenging comeback for me. I can assure you that I will only get better with each competition and I want to try different things with my routine. That is what excites and challenges me and I have so many ideas for my next routines. This routine is different from my themed-routines many years ago, but it shows my athleticism, and the music keeps me going to the very end.

What made you decide to compete in the NPC and now the IFBB after competing in another organization for years?
I had a baby and re-married in 2005 and I feel complete with my family and work life, so it was time to do something that I have always wanted to do and be able to take what I’ve learned from the past and comeback to the stage that I love.

You have some of the best calves of any woman to step on a competitive stage. Is it genetic or how did you build them?
Thank you, I have come to realize that God gave me a strong set of wheels because he knew I would take the longest, hardest route of getting to the top. I keep them in shape because I train or teach fitness classes every day.  

When will we see you on stage after the Arnold?
Let’s hope I get through the Arnold, I have no idea about next week. I never even thought I would get my pro card 2 months ago, I was planning on being an amateur for another year!

Do you still get nervous before going on stage?
I would like to throw up on this question. I am the most nervous girl backstage. Competing Fitness
routines is the scariest thing in the world (scarier then divorce, child birth, job stress, and landing on your head in gymnastics a bazillion times). The trick is turning that energy into a fabulous routine…we shall see.

What’s your favorite part about competing in fitness?
Fitness empowers you in all aspects of life. It stays with you and pushes you on the toughest,
darkest days. I have been through some rough times and I can honestly say that what I achieved on that stage stays inside of me and tells me to never give up on anything I do in business, personal, and otherwise.

Do you pay attention to what the critics say online?
Just give me their names and social security numbers and no one will get hurt… Can you explain why Paris Hilton is so famous?? I am the girl with the really big calves, and if I can help another girl out who is like me and was always ashamed of her body then it doesn’t matter what people say after that.

Will you be at any booths or roaming the expo halls when not competing?
I will be at the BODYSPORT booth on Saturday, please come by and say hi.

What is your goal for this show?
If I can sleep the night before then it is all good from there.

Where can fans find out more info about you?
www.TanyaM.com or come see me at www.Crunch.com where I can take you through a great workout in one of my classes.

Any one you’d like to thank?
Everyone who has been supporting me with their emails and kind words…it all helps me keep my head up as I make my way to the stage.

Good luck Tanya! See ya in Columbus

Well, it’s that time. AR-NOLD SEA-SON! (clap, clap, clap-ap-ap) AR-NOLD SEA-SON! (clap, clap, clap-ap-ap)  And this year marks the 20th anniversary of one of the most prestigious events in the muscle world, with the Olympia being the only event bigger than the Arnold.  History will be made in all four categories: Men’s Bodybuilding, Women’s Bodybuilding, Fitness, and Figure.

For the guys, a new Mr. International Champion will be crowned as the reigning champion (Victor) had to withdraw due to injury training for this event. No doubt whoever wins this event will carve his name in the annals of the history of not only the Arnold Classic, but in men’s bodybuilding in general. Obviously, there will be plenty of people to give their predictions on the males, so I’ll focus on the females. Before I do that, I’ll will go out on a limb and say that Dexter Jackson will be the new Mr. International.

In part one of the women’s side of things, I’ll discuss my Arnold thoughts on the fitness division, where a new top six will emerge due to the noticeable absences of Adela Garcia, Tanji Johnson, and Julie Shipley-Childs, among plenty of others. This lineup is the smallest that I can recall, but it’s made up of incredible talent, from seasoned veterans to up-and-coming pros, and of course, big-time rookies:

Regiane Da Silva
International flavor at the Arnold, Regiane will once again show the American audience how they do fitness in Brazil. She has appeared in the Arnold for the last couple of years and has brought with her from Brazil very high energy routines and a very strong physique. This year will mark her third consecutive Arnold competition and will definitely be looking to move up in the rankings, especially after placing pretty low at last year’s Olympia.  

Tina Durkin
The 2007 Nationals crowned an amazing champion in Tina Durkin. She brought down the house with her show stealing routine and wowed the audience with an amazing physique to boot. Of course, now it’s time to see if she can hang it with the elite. But if her performance at this year’s Arnold is even a fraction like her showing at the Nationals last year, look for Tina to secure a name for herself at the Arnold.

Bethany Gainey
I don’t know too much about this competitor, but from what I’ve seen of her so far, that could change very, very soon.  She impressed me with her routine at the Arnold last year (but what can you expect, I’m a fan of the King of Pop. That’s Michael Jackson, for those of you that don’t know.) Personally I think she needs to bring up her physique just a tad to move up, but that’s just me, though. Regardless, she’ll definitely be representing Hot-lanta this weekend with her style. I see her attaining a top ten spot.

Tracey Greenwood
Power, beauty, brains, intensity, and veteran status; that’s what you get when you face Tracey. She brings along cool routines, and one of the tightest bodies of any fitness competitor out there, which include her trademark vascular arms. She has paid her dues in the competitive world, as she’s one of the most respective women in fitness. This year will mark her eight year as a pro, and this Arnold will be her sixth. She’s not missed any of the top contests (Arnold and Olympia) since 2003. According to her website, she will bring a smaller but still tight body as well as a new fitness routine. To me, it’s only a matter of time before Tracey will host the Fitness International title over her shoulders. A top four finish is imminent.

Oksana Grishina
In all honesty, I don’t see why she should see herself out of the Top Six at the Arnold. She wowed the audience at the Olympia with arguably the best routine of the competitors. In fact, she won the fitness routine round with a near-perfect score.  Her physique is right up there with the elite fitness stars. With some more exposure in the United States, don’t be surprised if she picks up some major awards in the near future. The Arnold world could be in for a big Russian awakening, and in the word of WWE Raw Superstar Chris Jericho…the fitness world will never…EEEEEVVVERRRRRR…be the same….ag-ain!

Jennifer Hendershott
This has got to be arguably Jennifer’s favorite event as it will be in front of a very loud and supportive hometown crowd. Her body is good, but her routines are what set her apart from the competition. Rules, boundaries, controversies, and limits be damned! Every time she steps onstage, you know you’ll in for a performance you’ll never forget. In fact, very few can surpass her, let alone even attempt to match her in the routine round. That’s why she’s been at the top for so long. She has that “it” factor about her. In my honest opinion, Jenny is by far the best and only person to defeat Kim this year. If Jenny is at her best, she can’t and won’t be stopped. I gave you all fair warning.

Kimberly Scheideler (formerly Kim Klein)
New last name, same incredible physique. But now Kim found herself in a position that shows what a true champion is all about: defending your title. Last year, Kim silenced the critics and finally became Fitness International champion.  Her victory was something many people wanted, but few expected to happen in 2007. She had great momentum heading into the 2007 Fitness Olympia, but came a few points short in capturing the title. You can bet that Kim will be at the top of her game come Arnold time. No one wants to win a title one year, and then lose it the following year. Unless she’s a mess, don’t expect Kim to relinquish the title to Jennifer, Tracey, or anyone else at the end of the month.

Julie Lohre
Her Arnold debut is one that many people are anticipating. Her football routine in 2007 was the talk of the town and won her many followers. You go to practically any female muscle forum, and you will see her husband, Rick Lohre, drawing support and posting her on the web. And she posts in various boards, as well. Personally, I have her in a lock for a top-six position.

Tanya Merryman
For those who have no idea what Tanya is capable of in fitness, you’re in for a treat. Nearly a decade ago, she wowed the crowd during her Fitness America days. Her routines were pro-level to start with, and her physique was perfect, especially her legs. Fast forward to today, and she’s never looked better than she does right now. She’s had to work on her upper body a tad because her lower body is beyond overpowering…yep, af decade later, her legs still rival most competitors.  She’s obviously following her own path to becoming an IFBB veteran and doing things her own way, but as a Fitness America alumnus, she’s got some shoes to fill. The only big Fitness America alumni success story that is going on today belongs to Julie Shipley-Childs, who placed fifth in her first Arnold Classic, a feat that’s not easy to do. But if anyone can follow the path of the Childs and become an IFBB sensation, it’s Tanya.

Mindi O’brien
Canada’s top fitness star has made an impact on women’s fitness. Her routines are high-spirited and her physique would match that of a lightweight bodybuilder’s.  She’s got a huge fan base, and has arguably the best biceps of any fitness competitor at the Arnold, and in all of fitness period.  This Canadian powerhouse has been looked at as one of the best, but has yet to place in the top six. She can change that this month.  

Julie Palmer
A regular in the top six positions at many events, Julie Palmer is among one of the most consistent performers. She brings with her a tight physique and flawless routines wherever she goes. She packs in a good amount of muscle, yet it so balances that having more muscle than most isn’t a problem for her. For the last three Arnolds, she’s places in the top six…at six. It’s guaranteed her spots at the Olympia, but I’d happen to think that this Julie is getting just a wee bit tired of placing sixth at the Arnold. She would like nothing better than to move up to the top three or four. I bet she would settle for even top five. Just as long as doesn’t go below sixth place, she won’t have a problem with her placement. I see her having a top four finish.

Stacy Simons
She’s the senior in the fitness division, as she’s entering her 11th year…as a pro! Congrats girl! This will be her seventh Fitness International (her 39th overall pro competition), and I would like to see her place pretty high in this event, like she did in 2002, when she got a top five finish.  She has great routines and a great muscular physique. Knowing her, she will have something incredible in store for the fitness fans in Columbus. Miss Simons wouldn’t have it any other way.

With that being said, here’s my top six:
1. Kim Scheideler
2. Jenny Hendershott
3. Tracey Greenwood
4. Julie Palmer
5. Oksana Grishina
6. Julie Lohre

Top Three Wildcards: Tanya Merryman, Tina Durkin, Stacy Simons

I’ll post the Figure and Ms. International before the Arnold arrives.

I am extremely excited to be doing the Arnold Amateur this year.  I will be competing in fitness as that is where I belong!  Fitness might not be as popular as figure but remains the most exciting part of the competition due to those high flyin’ routines.

Many of the girls competing I already know, and cannot wait to meet more.  Figure on the other hand, all I can say is ‘wow’! There are so many of you!  THIS is going to be one high quality event.

I am so glad the organizers decided to open this event up to international competitors.  It adds variety, flavor, and showcases the various styles of fitness, figure and bodybuilding presented all over the world.

To all my fellow competitors - I wish you all the best in your training, and a crave free diet!  See you in Columbus….

Allycat

Those of you wondering who will be competing in the amateur portions of the Arnold Classic weekend can now check them out on the Arnold web site. Visit: http://arnoldclassicamateurbodybuilding.com/competitors.html

We stopped back by the Bodybuilding.com booth (okay, yes, yet again - LOL) and snagged another quick interview with fitness model and IFBB Fitness Pro, Timea Majorova.

See what lies in store for the not-so-timid Timea in the next few months…

Having problems with the video?  Click here for the downloadable Windows Media version.