Pro/Am Contests Blog

I love the last week of contest prep!  I love being able to say this is my last leg work out, this is my last regular workout, this is my last deplete day!  My training partner who’s a WNSO Muscle Model and Fitness model pro always says that the last week doesn’t count.  I think she’s right!  Everybody tells you how excited they are for you, how it’s almost there and all of a sudden the diet that killed you the week before isn’t that bad anymore…

I went with my training partner to do groceries and buy all our competition stuff as well as our post contest food lol.  After buying a gazillion dollars worth of candy, chips and chocolate I was told by the cashier that I was lucky to get to eat all of that and be so small!!!!!  If only she knew

This time around I’m a lot better prepared, it’s the world Championship after all!  We modified my diet and my training and I have never been in better shape.  There wasn’t really time for me to add some size since I just did a show but I will be a lot leaner.  Last week I was 8.something BF at 108!!!!!!  My legs are looking a lot better than last time and I’m really happy about that!  I still have a week to go,  2 more deplete days, 3 carb up days, 1 last back and chest wo, 1 last arm  wo, 1 last deplete wo and than I will rest and eat sweet potatoes and oats and will enjoy this great adventure!

Someone once asked me why I was so relax the day of the show.  My answer was simple, I love it!  I also know that it’s a judged sport so there is not much you cna do about the outcome so if you show up with your best body every time and you’re proud of yourself you have already won…

have a good one and good luck to all of you who will be competing next week-end in Toronto!

Isabelle!

P.S. I would like to give Isabelle Galarneau my training partner a big shout out for her constant support and to my man Michael (1_2_Rage) thank you so much!  I never could have done this without you!

I’m so sorry!!!!!

I know I suck and I should have posted before but as usual work got the best of me?

I’m happy to say that I did well at FAME East,  I actually won my division (open fitness model)  I just had so much fun that day and will remember April 19 2008 for a very long time!  I woke up rested and happy!  My boyfriend (currently deployed)  had sent me a little video wishing me good luck and saying he was proud of me so it was a great start to my day.  It was a gorgeous sunny day and I was all smile driving over to the venue.  I got there got dressed and went upstairs to watch the guys compete.  All I can say is WOW, the men were in amazing shape and I was impressed with how well the show was run.  Watched the guys from my team kick some butt and went backstage to get ready knowing that it would be my turn soon.

It was very special for me because my parents are not necessarily big fans of me competing but my mom came to see my show and so did my friends and my neighbors.  I walked on stage with the biggest smile and got such a confidence boost seeing my mom cheering me on.  Also knowing that my man was proud of me and was staying up all night to check up on me was great!

Pre-judging went great and my coach was happy with my stage presence so  all I had to do was focus on theme wear and enjoy myself!  I have to say that I really enjoyed competing with the WNSO because it’s fun.  It’s a great show to watch and competitors and staff were just so nice, I didn’t want to leave!!!  Talking about entertaining, my coach competed with his girlfriend in the fittest duo category and their routine gave me Goosebumps.  It is featured on the WNSO website so if you have a chance check it out,  they got a standing ovation at the end and when you see it you will understand why.

The award ceremony was obviously the highlight of my day.  When they called out my name for the top 3 I was shocked,   I guess I didn’t really have any expectations.  I looked at my coach standing beside me and he just smiled and said good job. I walked to the middle of the stage with the biggest grin and not really knowing what was happening.  They called out 3rd place and I was standing there ready to fake smile as they called my name for 2nd place… when they called out the 2nd place winner and said the new fitness model open winner is Isabelle Rochon my mind went blank and I just had a miss America moment where I covered my mouth and stood there with the dumbest look on my face lol.  All I could hear after that was my younger sister screaming “don’t cry… smile!” and I looked at the judges and said thank you.  Then I looked at my coach who was laughing at my reaction and smiled and got my composure back.  After that all I kept thinking was I need to e-mail my main man that is girl didn’t disappoint   

Next was a nice long shower to get all that tan off followed by pizza and watching my man GSP school Mat Serra…  that completed my already perfect day!

After that I took a week off and enjoyed some food ( not too much)  When I met with my coach we agreed that I would compete in the WNSO world championship on June 15.

So as  I write this I am 2 weeks out and starving.  I’m meeting with my designer for my new theme wear this week. I’m still debating if I will get a new competition suit done,  competing is soooooo expensive , I really need to focus on getting a sponsor after this show.  So far my contest prep is going great, I am leaner than I was for my last show and about 2 lbs lighter and I still have 2 weeks to go.

I am really looking forward to competing again in 2 weeks.  My training partner will be competing the day before in the muscle model category and I can’t wait to go and cheer for her.  Ava Cowan will also be there so you know I will just have to ask her to take a picture with me ( I know I’m such a geek) I’m a huge fan of her and her videos series here on BB.com.

I am very lucky to be able to compete and to have the support of my friends and family but most of all I’m lucky to have such a supportive boyfriend.  Thank you Michael!

Wish me luck!

This past weekend at the Ava Cowan FAME Tropical was just amazing! This being my first event, I really didn’t know what to expect.  There was a moderate athlete turnout but I couldn’t help but think of just how many more competitors there would be next year. I now know so much more about promoting an event, so I will be pounding the payment here in South Florida, promoting throughout the year.

From what I have heard so far everyone had a blast, and felt very good in regards to the outcome of the show.  A good reputation is paramount so I am hoping the news will travel in the area. The venue was simply amazing so I will be using the same auditorium again next May.

The best part of the show was the audience participation. They were serving beer at the snack bar so people were having more fun than I am sure they expected to have. People made signs and were screaming for their friends or family members. The Fitness Model Open Winner, Jessica Uffens, has 4 children, and her husband had some cool signs. One read, “This Chick Has 4 Kids!” It was great to see.

Next May, I plan on hosting the Ava Cowan FAME Tropical again, and look forward to this being an annual event.  This gives all of you plenty of time to set those long term fitness goals. Making the decision to step on stage will forever change your life.

I look forward to meeting everyone again next year!

Train Hard! Train Natural!

Ava Cowan

Marzia Prince Wins The Lyzabeth Lopez FAME Classic Bikini Competition On Saturday, May 10, 2008 In Toronto, Canada!

(Dallas, Texas) Marzia Prince, global magazine model for Gaspari Nutrition, won the Bikini Competition at the Lyzabeth Lopez FAME Classic that was held in Toronto, Canada on Saturday May 10, 2008.

As the result of her victory, Marzia has earned her pro card with FAME.  Less than 100 women worldwide have the honor of holding a FAME pro card. This victory is another major success in 2008 for Marzia who also was selected FHM100 Most Sexiest Women in the world in their South Africa publication and recently with the hostess for the NPC Ronnie Coleman Bodybuilding/Figure Classic held in May.  Also, Marzia is schedule to be featured in Muscular Development Magazine with her sister, Alizia Gutierrez this summer.  Marzia will be competing in the FAME Pro World Championships in Toronto, Canada this summer.

Backstage with two wonderful contestants!

“I am very excited about the victory at FAME in Toronto and winning my pro card,” voiced Marzia Prince – Glamour/Fitness Model.  “The last 24 months have been an extremely fast pace and rewarding.  The hard work in the gym and having the right nutrition plan has paid off with the success I am achieving.   Winning the FAME competition in Toronto is the beginning of my move from just a fitness model to more mainstream glamour model opportunities.  Also, I want to be able to use the FAME organization as a platform to promote to women around the world about how to keep a healthy and fit life no matter how old you are.  I am looking forward in competing on the Pro Tour with FAME and working with them in any capacity they may need me to promote fitness anywhere around the world.”

ABOUT MARZIA PRINCE:

Marzia is an internationally known glamour & fitness model that has appeared on numerous magazine covers.  Marzia is currently a personal trainer in her hometown of Dallas, Texas when she is not traveling on personal appearances, photo shoots, hosting events, and entering competitions.  Marzia is currently writing her first book on fitness for women that is due out the end of 2008 or Spring 2009.  Finally, Marzia’s long-term goal is to be a spokesperson for the fitness industry on how to live a better life through exercise and nutrition.

ABOUT FAME/WNSO:

The FAME/WNSO (World National Sport Organization) is an all natural fitness and bodybuilding organization based out of Toronto, Canada. All WNSO events are drug tested to ensure fair, drug-free competitions. The organization was founded 10 years ago and conducts events nationally and internationally.

Ava Cowan FAME Tropical May 17, 2008!

I am so excited to be collaborating with the WNSO (World Natural Sports Organization) to bring you “Ava Cowan FAME Tropical” here in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida in May 2008!

Calling all natural athletes..don’t miss this incredible opportunity!

What: Ava Cowan FAME Tropical- Pro Qualifier for ALL CATEGORIES!!

Where: The War Memorial Auditorium just minutes from some the most incredible beaches in the world! Perfect for relaxing or using for some incredible photo shoot locations!

When: May 17, 2008

This Level 2 show will consist of all competition categories and will not only be a qualifier for the FAME World Championships but the annual FAME North American Championships in Miami in November.

Categories: Swimsuit Model, Fitness Model, Muscle Model, Figure, Bodybuilding - Pro Qualifier!!

Athletes, this is your time to shine. And through FAME you can achieve your fitness goals by competing! From the first time competitor to the most advanced athlete, there is a division for everyone!

I look forward to meeting each and every one of you!

Register today at http://www.wowfame.com

***The link to register directly or buy your spectator tickets:***

http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=172649

Ava Cowan CPTS, NSCA-CPT
WNSO Figure Professional
Figure America Overall Champion
FAME Advanced Figure North American Champion

ATTENTION:
1 FITNESS MODEL WINNER WILL will receive Up to $5,000 US of general or cosmetic dental work by Dr. Melanie Pugh, DMD, PA plus photo’s for your portfolio.
Value: Up to $5,000US
***Comprehensive Exam D0150; Full Mouth
Series of Xrays D0210″

More info at:

http://avacowan.com/news/21/

Hey y’all!  I’d like to extend my personal invitation to everyone to come on down to San Antonio, Texas on May 3rd for my show "Diana Chaloux’s FAME South Central Championships & Health Expo“! We certainly have been busy preparing for this MAJOR event!

I am thrilled to be bringing the WNSO and the inspiring all natural FAME athletes to my home town. along with the competition we made the decision to make this event something that would reach an even larger audience here in San Antonio, and would be a way to motivate, educate and inspire the city to start leading more fit and healthy lifestyles!

To draw a diverse crowd to this event we’ve got SO much going on! This show is a Pro Qualifier for the WNSO and part of the FAME World Tour Season 1. We have a beautiful venue, the historic Sunset Station,  chosen for this competition and expo. In addition to the all natural physique competition we have amazing events happening throughout the day!  You won’t want to miss it!  Hope to see y’all next weekend!

Register to Compete Today!

Click here to learn more about the show:

http://www.dianachaloux.com/fame.html
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/breaking_in_a_gym.htm

Boise Fitness Expo 2008
At the Big Easy Concert House, Boise, Idaho

What a night. Arriving just after the girlfriend put an offer on a house (which we are still hoping she gets) the first thing I notice is a MILE of a line! WOW. Now this is my first time coming to the expo. I didn’t think it was going to be very big, because before I worked for BB.com, I never heard of the Boise Fit Expo (apparently I don’t get out much). Ron Avidian and Isaac Hinds were interviewing VP Jeremy DeLuca out front. A few co-workers were slammed at the door, so as a gentleman, I started helping out getting out the “empty bags” which were slammed packed with samples and supplements that vendors handed out inside. We had around 500 t-shirts, which went fast. To try and get the line to go smoother, we were running down the line, throwing shirts out, like cheerleaders at basketball game, we were only missing the slingshot to launch it into the upper deck!

Once I finally snuck inside, I headed in to look for other employees. The joint was packed! Music playing in the background, guys doing ez bar curls for a competition to win a supplement from BEAST sports. I got distracted at the main stage where the FAME Bikini Model search was taking place, which I think would stop any man, and a select women, in there steps. I make it up stairs and look for the other employees. Don’t have to go far, just have to head for the bar! After finding Ryan DeLuca, hanging out with the VIP wristbands, I get mine and mingle with some fellas from my dept. I attempt to go check out the different vendors, but I figured I get enough goodies being an employee that I’ll stay out of the way of the guests!

I head into the VIP room to hang out with a few employees and head to the balcony where we could see the venue and the stage. Jay Cutler is at the MuscleTech booth taking pictures and signing autographs. Bill Romanowski was signing copies of his book and promoting his new supplement line; Nutrition53, in another corner. BSN had their booth set up with “The Prodigy” Brandon Curry signing autographs and taking pictures. Up on the balcony, I bumped into ErgoPharm’s own Patrick Arnold was watching the ladies finish up the FAME Bikini contest. Thanks to the beautiful Crystal Matthews and the eccentric Jerome Ferguson for hosting the contest and getting the fans to cheer instead of just stair with their jaws on the floor in awe! After that, Boise’s on Marika Johansson, put on a great posing show, in her Viking format, equipped with a sword. She is stacked alone; does she really need the sword? No, but it adds for effect!

Alright, enough standing and watching pretty ladies on a stage, time for a drink! After socializing with a few employees and vendors, I figured I would venture through the crowd, now that its died down a little bit. During the last 3 months, BB.com did its own Transformation challenge within the office, the winner, gets to go to host the booth at the Olympia this fall! While everybody did amazing, we had to have a winner. Kris Gethin, our editor-in-chief and author of the Transformation challenge took it with our Marketing Anylist Jamie Winery coming in a close second. Since Kris gets to go to the Olympia anyway, he gave his winning tickets to Jamie! Ryan DeLuca and Bob Cicharillo awarding them onstage.

Cruising around the crowd, I get over to meet Scott, the owner of BSN as well as get a picture with Brandon Curry. During that, Ryan DeLuca and Bob Cicharillo were up on stage handing out the employee of the year award! And GUESS WHAT…… It wasn’t me. Damn. I think it was rigged, but anyways, the winner’s were (that’s right, two EOY’s) Web Content Manager Will Wiedenmann and Purchasing Specialist Bill Baldry (and it’s the first time any of us have EVER seen Billy without a hat!). Went around and got to meet the guys from MuscleTech (and yes a picture with Jay) and then headed back upstairs.

As the vendors started running dry of free stuff, they started to gather up stairs in the VIP. Up here I got to meet and spend some time with a few new people. Bill Romanowski was hanging out, he had his ’98 Denver Bronco SuperBowl ring I got to try on. This was a huge moment for me, as it is the closest I will ever get to a Super Bowl and the Broncos are my team! Also got to spend some time with Brian Roubach from PhenogenX, Dave Nelson from iForce Nutrition, and Patrick Arnold from ErgoPharm; These aren’t your science nerds from high school! Some very cool guys that were fun to hang out with and represent great companies! Also got to swap some stories with Jerome Fergeson; Saw him at lunch earlier that day with his hair up, and he is actually 6’4 when he has his hair up. Its nuts! Of course I got to meet Jamie Eason finally, as she always was coming to the office when I wasn’t there! All in all, it was a great night! Big thanks go out to the Big Easy for hosting and of course to Dave Middleton, our marketing and events manager, for bringing it all together! If you missed it this year, don’t let it happen again next year! BFE 09 here we come!

So I went to the Boise Fit Expo last night. What a crazy experience!

I got there 2 hours early so I could be at the front of the line. There were about 10 people ahead of me when I got there and that number grew to about 40 with all the cutting going on. I swear one kid let his whole football team in front of him. A few of the ’special guests’ made there way outside to pose with the bodybuilding.com sponsored race car. Bob Cicherillo, Mak Attack, Hollywood, and the Fame Reps were a few come out and pose.

I had met up with a couple friends in line, but actually ended up hanging out with the lady ahead of me in line. Her name was Janet and she happened to be the concierge at the hotel all the special guests were staying at. They all recognized her and we got to chat with some of them. YAY!

We finally got in the door at about 6:10 and squeezed our way around the bottom floor and then to the upper floor. This was my first BFE so I had no idea it would be like this. I seriously felt like a sardine for about 2 hours. It also felt like a race to grab as much free stuff as possible while pretending to listen to what the vendors had to say. After filling 3 bags, we made our way to the dance pit.

We found a good place to stand up on a ledge. It was a great view for the events to follow. The bikini contest had a very poor turnout. There was about 6 girls. As soon as the girl who ended up winning walked on stage, I KNEW she would win. She had the best ass out there! She was also very confident, pretty, and had a rockin suit. There were a few girls that could stand to put on a little muscle and lose a little bf but it was pretty entertaining to see all the hooting and hollering.

There were a few performances by a local dance troupe, Studio C. They did a good job, but their choice of costume wasn’t very flattering. (come on this is a fitness expo!) Mak Attack was totally cheesy as always. It was fun to watch, but a professional choreographer would help tremendously. Her back up dancers were also not the best example of being in shape. I guess they were there to help Mak look better. There was also a performance by the bboy break dance crew. THEY WERE AMAZING! Best entertainment of the night!

The Mr. Puniverse contest was interesting. A few were booed off for having muscles, a few weren’t even old enough to compete, and the ones that were left were pathetic. They were great sports though. They all had their fan clubs rooting them on. At one point the top three took their pants off for a pose down. It was hilarious. The guy that won last year had improved too much to keep his title and passed it on to a scrawny red head kid. So fun! He earned a 250 gift certificate to bb.com. Hopefully he will use it on weight-gainers!

There was pose routine by Marika Johansson. She was a warrior princess with a sword. It was pretty cool, but a little drawn out.

I took my pic with Jay Cutler of course. He’s huge!! -and in desperate need of a new hairstyle!!

I wanted to meet Jamie Eason. She was mostly the reason I went. I saw her onstage and that was it. She spent most of the night backstage. boo!!!

Anyway, I had fun, and will definitely be going next year. Hopefully they will chose a bigger place to hold the event at next time.

Actually it’s a bit less than 2 weeks, I’m now 10 days out.  You can ask anybody who competes and they will all tell you that there is a period during contest prep that they dread.  For me it’s 2 weeks out.  I’m not a big girl so in order to look really full on stage I have to deplete like crazy so that I can really carb up.  It means that 2 weeks out I’m beyond flat, I lose the skip in my step, I have 0 energy and I ask myself daily why I’m doing this.

This time it doesn’t help that work has been crazy and on top of having to follow a diet of 8 meals of 100% protein ( yep 0 carbs and 0 fat)  I have to attend conventions and Galas almost every single day and night for the next 2 weeks.  If I have to explain to one more person why I can’t even touch the salad I will scream lol. I shouldn’t complain,  I’m one of the lucky ones who doesn’t get bitchy without carbs.  I will forget things and I try to drive as little as I can because I’m afraid of running over pedestrians but my mood is good, I laugh plenty and my boyfriend hasn’t threaten to leave me yet. I still have a life, I still go for coffee with my friends and play with my niece and nephews.  It’s not really the typical social life of a 32 year old, I didn’t eat valentine’s day or Easter chocolate, I postponed my b-day party till after the show and I’m in bed by 8h30 every single night ( hey I get up at 4h30 to train)

My coach called last night to see how I was doing and told me to look at it one carb up at a time lol.  He’s right, 10 days is nothing, I can do it.  It’s so easy to get depressed when you see yourself getting flat and you feel like you have no muscles left. The worse part is that even at 8.6% BF yesterday I had a fat day lol.  My goal was to come in at 3 lbs more than my last show. I did it and we’ll only know on the last day but I’m pretty sure I will come in 4 lbs heavier. I will also be leaner then last time, it’s just weird how we forget the "flat" phase each time and freak out.  Right now I feel I look so skinny, besides my back and my abs that never go away I can’t see the muscles.  My training partner is a WNSO muscle model pro and even she has those days when she’s afraid she’s going to be way too small and she’s afraid she’s losing all her hardly gained lean mass.

That’s when you have to focus on the good stuff, the pedicures, manicures, suits, make up, routine practice!  Competing is fun, when things get rough you have to focus on the good stuff, like knowing that I will have nachos in 10 days, that I will enjoy a glass of wine really soon and that I won’t be hungry!!!!!!!!!  You also  have to look at old competition photos and remember that you will fill out and that you’ll look even better this time.

You also have to remember that you are doing this for yourself, and that you need to be happy with what you’ve accomplished.  I will show up on stage April 19 knowing that I’m in the best shape of my life, that I did my best, that I couldn’t have pushed one more rep, that I followed my diet to a “T”,  that I practice my quarter turns and walk until I could do it in my sleep…  The rest I can’t do anything about.  I might not be what the judges are looking for, they might not like my suit, my hair, my style…  Judging is very subjective and you can put the same girls with a different  panel and you’ll get a completely different top 3.  If you compete with that in mind you will never be disappointed. Don’t get me wrong, I think we need to listen to what the judges have to say and use it to get better but we should always remember that when we get on that stage, we have every single reason to be proud of what we’ve accomplished.

The thing is I know why I’m doing this, I know why I’m working my butt off at the gym.  I want to win.  WNSO is a great federation, when you look at the WNSO pros they are all girls we want to look like…  Jamie Eason, Nicole Costa, Isabelle Galarneau, Maggie Diubaldo, Julie Marsland, Sylvia Tremblay, Michèle Lévesque… They are pretty, feminine, healthy and strong.  They are the girls we post on our fridge for inspiration and I want to be on someones fridge one day

Tomorrow when my alarm goes off at 4h30, I will get up, have my egg whites, grab my gym bag and remember a quote from the great Vince Lombardi that I have on my log book…. "INCHES MAKE CHAMPIONS"

What a Way to Kick Start Season 1 of the 2008 FAME World Tour!

The 2008 FAME World Tour started off with an amazing first event in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada this weekend. With over 90 athletes competing in all categories, as young as 52 and even younger at 20 the packed Centennial Theater crowd was entertained, and dazzled from the moment the first FAME athlete stepped on stage!

The 10th Annual FAME West officially began on Friday night when the athletes stormed the Holiday Inn in North Vancouver to complete their final registration for the show. Although the sign ups began at 5:00, there were excited people milling around the hotel from 3:00 on and all 93 passed through the process in about 2 and half hours!

Following registration there was a last minute FAME Camp led by FAME Fitness Model Pro Fatima Leite Kusch. “The camp is great as it gives the athletes the opportunity to do a final rehearsal before the show,” explained Fatima. And it really does make a difference as one of the FAME Camp attendees Xavier Trugillo went on to win the Muscle Model Division and even got his Pro Card!

Athletes arrived at the theater bright and early at 8:00 am to get ready for the show. We began the day with the bodybuilders and figure athletes taking to the stage first for the Physique Screening round and then right into the competition. “The judging portion of the show is really exciting as this is where the athletes really show their stuff, and you really capture the real essence of the art of the physique” say Tim Rollans one of the Official Event Photographers.

Fitness Model - Open - Tall Class

The audience witnessed an amazing display of muscled and toned bodies as the first group stepped on stage at 9:00 am and ended around 2:00 pm. The judging panel consisted of FAME Fitness Model Pro Fatima Leite Kusch, FAME Muscle Pro Christen Kwan, FAME Trainer James Scott and Dr Blair Whitmarsh and Head Judge, FAME Co-President Jeffrey Kippel.

The judging portion of the show consists of very detailed physique analysis comparing athletes against each other in each division on stage, “this is where you really get to see the posing and athletism, ” says James Scott. “it is really amazing seeing it from this perspective. I learned so much being on the other side of the judges table” explains Chris Kwan, who is normally on competing on stage.

The finals and entertainment show began at 7:00 pm sharp with an opening number that had the audience roaring as all the athletes rushed the stage! The energy was immediately followed with an amazing guest routine performed by FAME Fitness Pro Amelie Verret all the way from Sherbrook, Quebec. With the adrenaline pumping the male bodybuilders took to the stage to show off their favorite pose and display their rippling muscles in a posedown that lasted so long we had to pull them off the stage so they could perform their routines!

FAME Fitness Pro Amelie Verret.

Robert Limerick, 49, who won the masters class, paid tribute to his home country of Scotland with a inspired routine, kilt and all. Graham Chan, the first of the Maple Ridge athletes sponsored by Cutting Edge Nutrition, won the Short Class of Open Bodybuilding. This was followed by a win by his brother, Richy Chan, in the Medium Class, whose showed off his “softer” side with a routine choreographed to a love ballad.

Robert Limerick’s Scottish Routine.

The tall class winner, Jiro Cruickshank, had the audience at its feet when he won his division. He had a lot of support in the crowd as he also competed with his brother Sayer who took 2nd place in the Medium Class. Evan MacIntyre, our youngest athlete on stage this weekend at 20 years, won the Junior Class and also placed 4th in the Medium Class. And finally in the male divisions, Tony Ruggiero, from Everett, Washington, won the Advanced Division and received his FAME Pro Card.

Next to the stage were our female bodybuilders in the Open, Masters and Grandmasters divisions. When they stepped on stage for their posedown the audience erupted with cheers! The physiques were amazing and the enthusiasm on stage incredible. Sylva Mischke had an amazing performance which included a mixture of gymnastics, strength moves and showed off her ripped, symmetrical body. She took 1st place in both the Masters and Open Division and also went on to win her FAME Pro Card in the Muscle Model Division a bit later in the evening.

There were 2 incredible athletes in the Grandmasters Class - Pamela Stein - who had the energy of a teenager as she sprang onto stage to win her class, with Jennifer Butts following with her huge support of family in the crowd wearing the shirts “My Grandma can kick your Grandma’s A!@”.

“My Grandma can kick your Grandma’s A!@”.

Next up in our Fitness Division, the photographers and crowd were entertained with powerful high energy routines. Kim Scoffins, who won the Open Division, showed off her endurance levels with pikes and straddle holds and other combinations of strength and flexibility moves. Monica Elliott who placed 2nd revealed a perfectly choreographed routine making use of silver batons …….  Kailley-Michelle Plain placed 3rd displaying great energy, confidence and stage presence for her first time stage appearance.

The Advance Division also saw some amazing routines. Naomi Keane, winning her FAME Pro Card in this Class, as well as the Fitness Model Class, showed the audience a Geisha inspired routine, with a beautiful costume and routine filled with incredible energy! Margo Northey, placing 2nd, performed a perfectly choreographed routine that showcased her bubbly personality and stage presence.

After the intermission the audience was thoroughly impressed with the eye-popping physiques and creative themewear round for the Fitness Model Divisions. From Vegas Show Girl to Dark Angel; Italian Sausage  to Roman Gladiator;  each girl and guy added their own personality and creativity! In the Short Class Michelle Jeanpierre won first place, in the Tall Class Marilyse Mayerhofer took first place and in the Men’s division Hayden Edwards won his class. The last division, and the largest class of the day, was the Bikini Models. Megan Cofield, beat out 19 athletes to win this class and get her FAME Pro Card.

Eye-popping physiques and creative themewear!

At there was still more excitement as FAME Muscle Pro Chris Kwan showed off her masculine side with her black and white tophat and tails as she performed her routine to Tom Jones playing in the background. The show wrapped up at 9:30 with the athletes all on stage receiving their awards and then being interviewed backstage for FAME TV!

From the registration meeting, to surprise drug tests, to media interviews and cheering fans, the 10th Annual FAME West was a huge success! Athletes qualifying at this show will move onto the 2008 FAME World Championships and Pro Showdown taking place June 13-15th in Toronto, Canada. And for those of you from out of town, you can experience all the thrills of the event as FAME makes history with televising the full event in real time on FAME Web TV!

Judging Panel.

We would like to also take this opportunity to thank everyone who came out to the show, from media to photographers, from fans to the theatre crew and of course to all the athletes who made us proud to host these events! A special thanks goes out to our backstage crew led by FAME Event Manager Shannon Lucier…. Thank you, Kevin Friesen, FAME Pro Amelie Verret, FAME Pro Ocean Bloom, Nancy Lockington, Carl Sutherland and to FAME Fitness Model Pro Kamber Lidenbach who joined the athletes on stage for the awards ceremony.

For full results, click here:

http://www.fameworldtour.com/FAME_West.html

and/or here:

http://contest.bodybuilding.com/results/5062

FAME World Tour has teamed up with Bodybuilding.com to host a FAME Bikini Model Search that will be held at this year’s Boise Fitness Expo in Boise, Idaho on Friday, April 11th, 2008. The bikini model search is open to all females looking to win $500 in cash but to also walk away with their Pro Status from FAME.

Because we are working with Bodybuilding.com they are generously offering FREE registration for this event! So there is no reason not to compete. To register, log onto the FAME website or go directly here to sign up:

http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=604737

Also, since this is a Pro Qualifier the winner can come to Toronto, Ontario to compete in the 2008 FAME World Championships Pro Show among the other Bikini Pros. Check out more details on the FAME World Championships by visiting www.FAMEworldtour.com!

FREE ENTRY -

FAME Bikini Model Search
Date: Friday April 11th 2008
Location: The Big Easy Concert Hall - 416 S 9th St.
Athlete Registration: 4pm @ The Big Easy
Bikini Model Search: Starts @ 6pm

See you there!

Shannon Lucier
Event Manager/Promoter/Athlete Liaison
WNSO and FAME World Tour
slucier@FAMEmediagroup.com
www.wowFAME.com

The Bodybuilding.com FAME Bikini Model Search kicks off the 2008 FAME World Tour in the United States on April 11. With a cash prize purse of $500 (Winner Takes All), Pro Status, the ability to compete in the FAME World Championships Pro Showdown; and FREE Entry, anyone who is Body-Proud should take advantage of this amazing opportunity.

I am coming out to this event together with WNSO Pro and Magazine Cover Model, Lyzabeth Lopez. We are both extremely excited about this! It’s going to be a blast meeting new athletes!

WNSO Pro Lyzabeth Lopez.

We’re also co-hosting the “All About FAME Justin.TV Weekly Program”; awarding someone the newest title of FAME Pro, and enjoying all that the 2008 Boise Fitness Expo has to offer!

To enter the event and to learn more about the Bikini Model Search, visit www.FAMEworldtour.com

Remember, there is no entry fee… it is FREE! So sign up today and we’ll see you on stage!

:-) Mindy

Mindy Blackstien
Co-President, World Natural Sports Organization (WNSO)
Co-Producer, FAME World Tour
Executive Editor, FAME Magazine
www.FAMEworldtour.com

Body Proud? Get FAME!

Check out this great review with photos from the recent 2007 FAME North American Championships held last month in Miami, Florida, USA - courtesy of the team at NorthAmericanBodies.com.  Click here to view:

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2007famena.htm

Congratulations go out to BodySpace members Ava Cowan, Alex Fontaine, Diana Chaloux, and Scott Hults for their wins!

Click image for larger version.

Wow, check out those great BB.com t-shirts! 

You won’t want to miss Ava Cowan’s FAME Tropical competition on May 17, 2008!

I am so excited to be collaborating with the WNSO (World Natural Sports Organization) to bring you “Ava Cowan’s FAME Tropical” here in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida in May 2008!  Spring time in Florida is so beautiful, and the beaches are waiting for you! Here is all of the information you will need to know, and you will have 5 months to prepare for the show!

Calling All Natural Athletes!

What: Ava Cowan’s FAME Tropical- Pro Qualifier for ALL CATEGORIES!!
Where: The War Memorial Auditorium just minutes from some the most incredible beaches in the world!  Perfect for relaxing or using for some incredible photo shoot locations!

This venue is huge!  Competitors, the stage is large and beautifully lit.  And sponsors there are 20,000 square feet of potential exhibit space, able to accommodate up to 125 8?x10? booths. A large outdoor display area is also available.  And there is the capability to seat 2110.

When: May 17, 2008

This Level 2 show will consist of all competition categories and will not only be a qualifier for the FAME World Championships but the annual FAME North American Championships in Miami in November.

Categories: Swimsuit Model, Fitness Model, Muscle Model, Figure, Bodybuilding - Pro Qualifier!!

Athletes, this is your time to shine.  And through FAME you can achieve your fitness goals by competing!  From the first time competitor to the most advanced athlete, there is a division for everyone!  There is nothing better than the feeling of setting personal goals and achieving them.  I get asked all of the time, how do I stay on my diets, and the answer is I COMPETE!  And I do it naturally, and so can you!

I look forward to meeting each and every one of you!

Register today at http://www.wowfame.com

The link to register directly is
http://www.regonline.com/Checkin.asp?EventId=172649

Ava Cowan CPTS, NSCA-CPT
WNSO Figure Professional
Figure America Overall Champion
FAME Advanced Figure North American Champion

I just wanted to give you some feedback about my recent competition a couple of weekends ago, the FAME Fitness Hollywood Figure America, held in L.A. on November 17th.

I must say that it hasn’t quite hit me as I sift through emails, clean the house and do the laundry.  But every now and again I just sit here and play back in my mind how everything unfolded.  I am so glad that I did get video of the show, and that was so awesome to see.

I don’t know what to say other than, I set two goals for myself this year - to turn pro and to win the Ms. Figure America, and I achieved both.  But I know myself, and I will be looking for the next challenge on my journey.  And I am sure that will be the Ms. Figure Universe and the FAME World Championships in Toronto next summer!

Thank you for all of the incredible comments, they really mean so much to me!

Most Importantly, all things are possible!

Ava Cowan CPTS, NSCA-CPT
WNSO Figure Professional
Figure America Overall Champion
FAME Advanced Figure North American Champion

After coming West from her win in Miami and getting her WNSO Pro status, our BodySpace star Ava Cowan has scored another big win in Los Angeles. A great attitude, a knockout body and looking just beautiful, Ava took the Figure title at Figure Hollywood. And more than anyyone else by a long way, the crowd just loved her. No one came even close, not only in the judging, but also in the applause and and the fans chanting “AVA” “AVA” “AVA”. It was a big win for Ava Cowan…

I was there and it was fun! Thanks and keep coming back if you "Wanna See More…?"