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 By: Isaac Hinds
The 2004 NPC Jr. National Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Champions will kick off on Friday, June 18, 2004. The show is a pro-qualifier for the Figure division and this has women from across the country flocking to Chi town. When asked how things are going, NPC promotion queen, Pam Betz replied, "it will be the largest Jr. Nationals ever".
 As of June 11th there were around 210 female competitors. 210 competitors? You got it skippy, that news comes straight from the queen. Don't worry your little carb-depleted heads though ladies, that number includes women's bodybuilding, fitness and figure competitors. As the officials continue to check entries and wrap up preparations, several women are coming to the end of dieting, double cardio sessions and competing on the national level. The dream of competing on the Olympia stage will get one step closer for a few. Lift Studios & Bodybuilding.com invite you to take a look at some of the hottest fitness, figure and bodybuilding competitors in the nation?
Name: Stephanie Collins
Competition History:
This Will Be My 2nd Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I feel very good going into this year's Jr. Nationals... I have worked with a great coach this year and I plan to go into the show at my all time best! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Anything Chocolate! Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I just want to say that I am very excited to compete at this year's Jr. Nationals. Over the past year I have gotten to know a lot of great girls? and I look forward to stepping on stage with all of them. It is going to be such a good time and a lot of fun this year! That's what its all about... having fun and winning of course? hehe! I also want to thank Magnum and Tom for everything you guys have done for me the past few months!
Name: Nikki Warner
Competition History: Bodybuilding:
Figure:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 2nd How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I'm not expecting too much because I don't want to get disappointed and have a lousy time! A lot of women pay a lot of money to compete in this show? go in with high expectations only to get let down and never compete again. I've put a lot of hard work into prep for this show, which has been done after many years not just in a couple months. I started building my base 10 years ago, therefore, I feel like I do have an advantage over a lot of the girls. Mature bodies are simply hard to beat! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Definitely something sweet? ice cream would be nice! Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? If I don't do well this year... I WILL BE BACK? hee hee? just had to say that? big fan of Arnold!
Name: Lorraine Rosa
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 2nd How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I feel much better than I did last year. Last year I had competed in 3 shows prior to Jr. Nationals and was very exhausted by the time Jr. Nationals rolled around. Also, I feel my routine is a lot better than last year. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Probably Hershey's Kisses. It's one of the rare times I eat chocolate. I'm really not big on sweets. What I will be craving is French fries, pizza and Mexican food. Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? Not at this time.
Name: Jodi Miller
Competition History: NPC
Galaxy Nova
Powerlifting
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. This will be my third time competing at the Junior Nationals. How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? Do you remember the last couple of weeks before the end of a high school class or a college course? You still had a few more chapters to read, another logarithm to learn, more dates to memorize, a few scientific equations to set to memory? You had done everything you could up to this point and you were just waiting for the last scraps of information that the teacher would try to tattoo into your brain before the final exam would arrive on your desk. The unknown lurked behind every page of every textbook. Test day would soon arrive. It's an anxious feeling, a nervous bit of energy that sits in the back of the mind. I feel like this. I've done what I can since the Emerald Cup, made improvements to the best of my ability within the time allotted, and now I have to wait for the final test: the stage. I still have less than two weeks, so there is more to accomplish, and I know that my body will make the necessary changes. But the unknown still looms before me. I know the information, but not the grade. The interesting part is that I'm actually at my happiest going into this show that I've ever been in my four-year history of competing in the NPC. I'm satisfied with my work. I can't wait to show it off. Even if the grade comes back differently than what I would normally hope for, I'm pleased with the product I've sculpted. I'll walk onto and off of that stage with pride. My parents always taught me that if you did your best and you learned the material, the grade was insignificant. I think that lesson is finally beginning to sink in. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Well, I have a ton of photo shoots scheduled for the weekend of Junior Nationals, so I can't go too crazy, but once those are over with, some deep dish, Chicago-style pizza is in order, my own homemade oatmeal raisin cookies will be munched on, and some Reese's peanut butter cups nestled in ice cream sounds heavenly! Although, a bacon cheeseburger and fries and a huge slice of carrot cake cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory seem pretty divine too! So many choices, so few days before my training for Figure Nationals commences.+ Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I once thought I had to hold a trophy in my hands in order to achieve self-confidence. I thought winning determined self worth. I've had to hit the bottom in the shows and rise up like a phoenix in order to stop allowing my insecurities to burn my efforts to ashes and to learn that there are some trophies you just can't physically hold. Compete for yourself, and you will reach your goals. I also have my soul mate by side, holding my hand, cheering me on every step of the way, telling me he's proud no matter the result. I wish that for everyone; it brings rays of sun where the rain once fell. And my Tigger slippers seem to be my good luck charm, even if all they do is make me smile on nights when the cardio and diet seem the hardest and when nerves are ready to attack before a show! Photography credits: Gene X. Hwang, Gene Carangal
Name: Pam Franklin
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I feel excited and anxious about the show! I've been preparing for this show for 18 weeks and feel focused and ready. My trainer thinks I'm ready. My husband thinks I'm ready. I hope the judges do to! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Since I'll be in Chicago I'd like some authentic Chicago pizza. I also have a sweet tooth so definitely something sweet, preferably chocolate! Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I love bodybuilding and the way it can shape my body. Even with two children and owning a personal training business, I make my priorities such that I can keep my body in top shape. Competing provides me the goal necessary to make the sacrifices needed to achieve the desired look. I love my workouts, but I'll admit that I can't wait to stop the cardio and go on my planned cruise vacation the week after the contest!
Name: Jeanette Freed
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? Excited, confident, and ready to have a great time What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Entermann's Cinnamon Rolls Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I feel extremely blessed to be a part of this competition. It's so rewarding to participate and accomplish your goals. Hard work, dedication and faith will always get you through.
Name: Amy Peters
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? Confident and excited. I'm very happy with my condition! Whats The First Think You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Chicago style pizza and a yummy dessert. Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? Wish me luck!
Name: Michelle Troll
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? Although, I have not felt well for the past week, I feel that I will be coming into this show looking my best ever. I have gained a lot of solid muscle over the past year since my first contest and, yet, have managed to stay lean and hard. I am hoping to earn my pro card this year and feel that I have a good chance of doing so either at the Junior Nationals or at Team Universe in August. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Well, that's a hard one because I always end up feeling like something different than I think I will want prior to the contest. In addition, I have a few photo shoots scheduled for the next day so I don't think I will be able to indulge too much. However, if I put all that aside, I will most likely want to eat nachos or pizza. I can't seem to get enough salty, greasy food following a contest! Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? Hmmm, do you mean anything that does not sound too corny or cliché¿ I have made many sacrifices to come so far in such a short time. People constantly remind me of how far I have come and that it was not that long ago since I started. The reality is that I have worked extremely hard and persevered through some difficult circumstances. I have not given up even at times when I felt that I could not go on - just one more set of lunges or one more chicken breast to choke down. Denial has become a way of life! Deny myself a piece of my daughter's birthday cake, deny myself a piece of my daughter's graduation cake or even deny that I have a chronic, incurable disease. Yet, on the flip side, I have the reward of knowing that I feel better than I have in years and that I am extremely good at what I am doing. I have given my daughter a legacy - to live out your dreams and to realize that sometimes, the only limitations that we have are the ones that we put on ourselves!
Name: Courtney Shiflett
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? More excited than nervous, I'm looking forward to the experience and the competition What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Triple cheese burger from Wendy's
Name: Deb Widdis
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 2nd How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I began powerlifting last year after the USAs in order to enhance my physique. I felt that I needed more mass and width in my back and more mass in my shoulders. I can definitely see an improvement in those 2 areas over last year. I am happy with the changes and my progression for the competition at this point. Let's just hope the judges like what they see!! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Not sure yet what the first thing will be because I have to eat a meal but I know I can't wait to have a HUGE Ice Cream Sundae and some jelly beans. Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I appreciate all the fan mail I receive with all the positive comments about my physique, this is what keeps me going. Of course I want to win these shows but I also know that it is up to the judge's opinions and that there are other factors that may influence placings. The biggest win overall for me will be the in my heart I know I came in as I had planned and did not let myself down and also the support and praise I get from the fans. This is where I feel like I really win and this only pushes me more.
Name: Kim Seeley
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I feel good about the competition as of right now. Nerves always set in and it becomes a mental thing more than the rest. I have made some changes since past shows and am pleased with my progress. I am the leanest/ hardest I have ever been. We will see if they like it or not... you never know. I have a new routine that is a personal best. That's all that counts right? Everyone wants to win but only one person is going to... knowing that this sport is so subjective... in the end you have to walk away loving yourself. I am often reminded by my fitness friends that I have come a long way. Sometimes I get preoccupied with placement instead of progress. I'm working on that. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Pizza or mexican food Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? There are a lot of women out there that would love to compete in fitness but because of the gymnastics obstacle they often pass on the opportunity. There are many top routines out there these days that do not have a focus on flips... are gymnasts fun to watch? Well, of course they are... but there are some creative strength move girls out there too. We all have gifts... discover your gifts and use them in the routine. No excuses.
Name: Kristina Henn
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 2nd How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I feel pretty good. I'm looking forward to performing my new routine and showing the fitness world how much I've improved since last year. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Pizza and chocolate!
Name: Chrissy Duminske-Garcia
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? Confident What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Pizza with bacon, onions, salami & white creamy garlic sauce and Ben & Jerry's Chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? Have fun at all times. When the sport isn't fun anymore, you really need to stop and reevaluate yourself and why you're doing it in the first place.
Name: Traci Redding
You can also refer to my website for previous contest with the INFF. This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I am very excited and ready for the show to be here! I have trained very hard this year and I feel that I am ready to compete at the National Level. Mentally I am definitely prepared and cannot wait for the challenge! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? I am not sure, but it will probably be a steak with a loaded bake potato and a dinner salad with real dressing!! And we must not forget the dessert, definitely a very rich dessert with lots of chocolate! Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I want the people who read about me or watch me at the shows to be inspired and encouraged by me. I want to always set a positive example for the woman of the fitness industry. I want people to realize the importance of health and nutrition and the powerful effect that is has on the quality of our lives. I know that God has blessed me with this passion and I can only continue to pray that I may touch the lives of others and that I may make a difference in peoples lives through fitness. Do not ever be afraid to go after something you think is unattainable, because the reward is so sweet when you finally accomplish what you set out for!
Name: Laura Lewis
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 2nd How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? Great, bad, tried, awesome... Depends on the day! Overall, good. This has been a fun process & I'm looking forward to getting on stage again. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Cookies from Home (just ordered them today to be shipped to Chicago. My brother is going to bring them to the show on Saturday! Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? Yes! My husband and I have always believed that a contest is a journey, "Enjoy the process."
Name: Raquel Oliver
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I am feeling really good about my progress. I have steadily improved on my physique each year and finally enlisted some help from Dre Dillard and Bonny Priest. I appreciate the support encouragement and knowledge of the sport. I am excited about being on stage, I love the stage and excited about meeting up with great competitors. I have never turned away from a challenge, I thrive on it and enjoy the eagerness leading to that time in the spotlight. What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Chips and Salsa... Does anyone know a great place in Chicago for Mexican food! I will have Pancakes the next morning. Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? Thanks for taking the time to learn a little more about me... I hope to make a splash in the BB industry. Keep your eyes peeled for the up and coming! AND.. You can just call me ROC.
Name: Abby Duncan
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? This will be my first time at the Jr. Nationals. I am excited and feel really good about going. Every time I do a show I improve and I have been working very hard this year. I feel like this is the best I have looked. I am fortunate to be working with Kim Oddo. He is the BEST trainer out there. He not only helps me improve my body, he also keeps it fun and keeps my head straight. I love him! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Pizza and ice cream. Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I love competing and I am blessed to be surrounded by my husband Joe, who is so supportive and all my family and friends. I hope to earn my pro card and make it to the Olympia.
Name: Marcy Porter
Current Residence: Orlando, FL
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 1st How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I feel confident knowing I am presenting my best package ever and I am really excited about stepping to step on stage! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? Cheesecake :) Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I want to thank every one for their support, my friends, my trainer Chris Eaddy and my fellow competitors I have met this year. It is going to be a great show and I wish everyone the best of luck !
Name: Colette Flack
Competition History:
This Will Be My ___ Time Competing At Jr. Nationals. 2nd How Do You Feel Leading Into The Show? I am hungry for that Pro Card! I've been training and dieting hard staying focused on the opportunity to one day compete with the pros! What's The First Thing You Are Going To Eat After The Show? I'm not sure yet - but when I get back home I want to celebrate by eating a P'zookie from Oreganos! (half baked cookie in a pizza pan topped with ice cream & chocolate sauce) Anything You Want To Share With The People Reading This? I compete because I love the thrill of competition and the satisfaction of setting goals and achieving them. I also have made so many wonderful friends through my journey in the fitness industry that I wouldn't trade the experiences for anything.
Other competitors to keep an eye on will be Sheron Kestler who has made the switch from bodybuilding to figure and is coming off a win at the Ron Coleman Classic. Look Denver's Rocky Mountain/Carol Semple 2003 Figure winner, Pam Styles, who will be making to the trip. Trainer Kim Oddo will be bringing 8 women to the show...
Kim tells us that he's very excited to be working with this young group of girls as they have tremendous potential and all have worked hard.
stated Kim when asked about his thoughts on the show. As you can see this is going to be an outstanding show. These are only a handful of the women competing in the show. If I was a gambling man I'd loose my ass trying to make a bet on who will turn pro at this show. Best of luck to everyone competing and if you'd like more information on the show visit: http://www.npcjrnationals.com.
[ NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: ] If you are a looking for a web designer, someone to advertise your current site, someone to brand and market your company, look no further. I have known Isaac for some time now and can say that he is probably one of the hardest working men in his field. I developed various websites for web design/marketing companies all of the world before I started with Bodybuilding.com over 3 years ago and I know that there are a lot of people in this business for the wrong reasons. If you are looking for a website to represent your personality and someone fun to work with, I would suggest contacting:
303-908-3998 isaac@liftstudios.com http://www.liftstudios.com Want to know what other people think about Isaac? Read Finding The Right Web Designer! for over a half dozen testimonials from his clients!
Also check out:
[ An Interview With Kim Oddo! ]
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