This pro-qualifying show for the figure has women from across the country flocking to Chicago this weekend. Several women will step on stage in hopes of being the next IFBB Pro. Many of the men will be testing themselves on the national stage as well.
Promoter Pam Betz reports that there are close to 200 women and 100 men competing in the various divisions. It will be interesting to see how many fitness competitors take the stage, lately there has been a decline in the number of fitness competitors. I know there are a number of very talented ladies who can turn pro in fitness. Last year a number of women competing in Jr Nationals went on to turn pro.
Along with a number of competitors I'm told ticket sales are on a roll, exhibitor space is sold out and Art Atwood looks big. Props to Optimum Nutrition for sponsoring the big fella to strut his stuff at the night show.
First Up - the ladies of "Fabulous Female Friday"
Prejudging begins at 6pm on Friday night.

Jameela Klaimy
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To get the experience of being on a National stage
and seeing what the judges have to say about my physique.
How do you feel going into the show?
I've done everything I can to the best
of my ability so I feel pretty good.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Sponsored by:
JavaFit, ISatori, Izba Spa, Tan the Moon, Christine Marsh Designs and The Point Athletic Club.
Web site:

Jacqui Blazier
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To present my best physique ever, have fun and enjoy the experience.
How do you feel going into the show?
I am feeling great! I will definitely be the most mentally and physically prepared that I have ever been. Bring it on!
First thing you will eat after the show:
Soft Batch Chocolate chip cookies, then some yummy Chicago pizza!
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
IFBB Pro Carla Sanchez. I am a member of the Performance Ready Fitness and Figure Team here in Denver.
Sponsored by:
JavaFit, ISatori, Izba Spa, Tan the Moon, Christine Marsh Designs and The Point Athletic Club.
Web site / email:

Jessica Booth
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
I've been competing for a year, and doing gymnastics for 12 years.
How Many National Shows:
One; I competed at Collegiate Figure Nationals in 2004 in Pittsburg.
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
I would like to have fun at this show, begin to gain some national exposure, and hopefully place well in the process. I think this is going to be a great show full of amazing women and I am greatful to be able to gain experience competing at a show of this caliber.
How do you feel going into this show?
I feel really good, I have been training hard and dieting even harder!! I have made a lot of improvements to my fitness routine by increasing the strength moves, and the skills. I've also put a lot of work into my physique, I am hoping to go into this show even tighter and more muscular then in the past.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Pizza, we're in Chicago after all!! Then some yogurt covered pretzels.
Are you working with a trainer, if so who?
I have been training with IFBB Fitness Pro Carla Sanchez, and I have been a member of the Performance Ready Team for just over a year now.
Sponsored by:
JavaFit, ISatori, Izba Spa, Tan the Moon, Christine Marsh Designs and The Point Athletic Club.
Web Site/Email:

Jessica Rohm
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To have a strong showing and hopefully place in the top 3 in fitness.
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel pretty confident, ready to get on stage and give it all I have.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Anything sweet, chocolatey or fatty!
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?

Anna Laratta
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Jr Nationals in Chicago will be my 1st.
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To do the very best that I can and to build on the national level experience I will receive.
How do you feel going into the show?
Very excited! I've worked very hard for this show and I'm ready for showtime!
First thing you will eat after the show:
Due to a photo shoot immediately following the show, I'll need to stick to my diet. After that? Probably my Mama's homemade Lasagna and bread. Eating healthy has actually become a lifestyle for me. As my trainer say's, "There's no off season!"
 |
 |
 |
How I Get Ready For A Photo Shoot!
Find out down to the very last detail on exactly how I train, eat, do cardio, supplementation, and final polishing tactics to get ready for a photo shoot.
[ Click here to learn more. ] |
|
 |
 |
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
IFBB Fitness Pro - Carla Sanchez
Sponsored by:
JavaFit, ISatori, Izba Spa, Tan the Moon, Christine Marsh Designs and The Point Athletic Club.

Stacey Kisting
Live In:
Finishing up last few months of Chiropractic College in Davenport, IA
How Many Years Training:
3 years competitively, 10 years total.
How Many National Shows:
This will be my 2nd national level show but first time doing The Jr. Nationals.
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
I would like to be a bit fuller than my last show, especially in the shoulders.
How do you feel going into the show?
It's an emotional roller coaster. Depends on the day! I am going in knowing that I did the best that I could with what I had.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Pizza and Chocolate! I can't wait to hit the Gino's East and The Cheesecake Factory that weekend. Sunday for breakfast is The West Egg Cafe', best breakfast in Chicago.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
I am currently working alone.
Web site:

Jeanette Freed
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
Come in the best I can,
enjoy the competition and Chicago, and get some rest.
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel
confident. I have stayed focused with my training and
dieting. Now it's time to have fun and show off the
results.
First thing you will eat after the show:
I'm gonna
have to try some of that Chi-town pizza I keep hearing
so much about. I'm having a bit of hard time
believing that it's better than NY pizza but I think
I'm up for the taste test.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Yes, I have been blessed to train with John Scoma for a little over 2 years now. John pushes, motivates and I have to say that I am in awe of many of his accomplishments as a trainer. I believe God works through us as vessels in order to help others.
One of his clients lost close to 180 pounds and I heard him say, "John, you saved my life. I got chills especially because I saw the whole transformation happen right before my eyes in a matter of six months with nothing more than hard work, discipline, and faith. Now that's what I call having purpose. John all I really want to say is thank you and you are definitely the "make it happen" kind of guy.
Sponsored by:
Web site:

Alexandra Galvez
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
My objective as it is for
every show is to come to the show in better condition
than the last and to come to the show and win
.
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel great
and ready to present a well balance package.
First thing you will eat after the show:
I maintain
a health diet all year around so I will probably
stick with my basic Chicken or Steak and perhaps
something sweet.
Are you working with a trainer?
I've been working
with Kevin Benson. He trains most local bay area
competitors with diet and training. I also have to
give my boyfriend Robert Dalecio credit for his
support and training during this prep.

Tamee Marie
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
How do you feel going into the show?
Small, I wish I had more size, but I'm proud of how much I've put on in the last six months. I just feel like it's not enough... we'll see.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Tuff choice, everything sounds so good.... probably something containing chocolate.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Not really, I just research and read alot to help me out. I work out with another figure competitor as well as my husband. They seem to give me some pretty honest opinions.
Sponsored by:
Web site:

Amy Peters
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
How do you feel going into the show?
I am very excited about this show. I
feel confidant in that I am bringing a new overall package to the Jr
National Figure stage.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
I do my own diet and training,
but I have been working with Jeff Dwelle on my posing and quarter turns.
Sponsored by:
Crystal Corner-Competitive Edge Competition Suits
Web site / email:

Erinn Tilley
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
I'm training to win the whole damn thing,
realistically the top 15 in my height class is a goal, but at risk of
sounding cheesy, I just have to say knowing I gave my all on the journey
there in the preparation, just being there and looking the best I know is
possible for me and knowing I never cheated on diet or training, I've
reached that goal.
How do you feel going into the show?
invigorated, nervous, pumped, strung
out, excited!
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are You Worinking With A Trainer:
I train by myself and with my headphones!
Yeah, my trainers are Korn, Tool, NIN, and Manson!
Sponsored By:
Myself! And someday I wish METRX because I'm a huge believer
in their products and have faithfully used them since starting 7 years ago,
except when they tried to change their extreme chocolate protein powder
which was all wrong, but luckily they switched back to their original
perfect chocolate formula!

Brandy Newman
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
This will be my first National Show!
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel confident and excited. My goal is to have fun, show off all of my hard work, and present an overall package to the judges.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Hopefully, Chicago pizza!! But, I have been craving filet mignon, sushi, crunchy peanut butter, chocolate chip cookies, ice cream, fruit... who knows, whatever I can get! I'll even take the left overs from all the bodybuilders.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Yes, my trainer is Fitness Pro, Carla Sanchez with the Performance Ready Team.
Sponsors:
Personal Sponsors:
Team Sponsors:
JavaFit, ISatori, Izba Spa, Tan the Moon, Christine Marsh Designs and The Point Athletic Club.
Web site:

Valarie Brown-Stephens
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To crack the Top 5 in the Short Class.
How do you feel going into the show?
I'm not as nervous like I was when I
competed at my first National Show in Charleston, S.C. (Jr. USA's '05'). I
didn't know what to expect, but it turned out to be a great experience.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Yes, Christina Gram and Jodi Jones
Sponsored by:
New Hope Counseling & Athena's Health Center
Web site / email:

Carla Rae Weimer
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
This is my second year training.
How Many National Shows:
Last year I competed at USA's and Colligate Nationals.
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
My goals are to look my best and have a great time!
How do you feel going in to the show:
I feel great and I am very excited to compete!
First thing you will eat after the show:
Candy and the famous Chicago pizza!
Are you working with a trainer:
I am apart the Carla Sanchez Performance Ready Team. Carla is my coach and I would not be where I am today without her! Thank you to all my teammates and coach for all the support! I love you all!
Sponsored by:
I would like to thank our team sponsors; JavaFit, ISatori, Izba Spa, Tan the Moon, Christine Marsh Designs and The Point Athletic Club.
Website/Email:

Judy Warren
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
Seriously training for over 1 yr., working out has been a part of my life for 15 years.
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
Be in the best shape possible, not to show my nervousness on stage, and have fun.
How do you feel going into the show:
Very excited and a little nervous for my first national show.
First thing you will eat after show:
Trail mix with lots of chocolate! I love the sweet and salty taste.
Are you working with a Trainer and if so, who?
Yes, Carla Sanchez. I am on the Performance Ready Team.
Sponsored by:
JavaFit, The Point Athletic Club, Tan the Moon, Meridian Physical Therapy, Fitness Together-Evergreen, Belmar Pharmacy, Melina Bandemer, Aesthetician, Izba Spa, Christine Marsh Designs, iSatori, Dr. Rival,.
Website: www.Judywarren.com

Felicia Bruno
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Chicago will be my first national and I have only competed in 3 shows total
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To win and become an IFBB Pro.
How do you feel going into the show?
Excited and in the best shape of any competition.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Yes, Micah Hooker, who owns Ultimate Physique in Fort Worth, Texas
Sponsored by:

Alexis Ellis
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
Place better than I did at the figure nationals.
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel extremely confident with the new package I am bringing to the stage. It is better shaped and even more symmetrical.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
Sponsored by:
Web site:

Bridgette Rhea
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
This will be my first Jr. National Show
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel pretty confident going into this show
First thing you will eat after the show:
The first thing I will eat after the show is a piece of Chocolate cake & Ice Cream
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
My Trainer is Liane Seiwald
Sponsored by:
I don't currently have a sponsor.

Molly Thompson
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
I hope to be in top 15 this time.
How do you feel going into the show?
I am super excited! I have had a good time competing in two regional shows so far this year, so I feel warmed up and ready to go for this! I can't wait.
First thing you will eat after the show:
My fiance (I just got engaged last weekend!) and I are going to go to Al's Pizza, which is right there near the Hyatt. We went there last year and it was so good -- and I don't even like pizza, really. We have not really celebrated our engagement yet (because of my diet)... so I guess we will finally celebrate it by pigging out over pizza after the show. How romantic, huh? Haha.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
No, I don't have my own trainer ATM. However, I am a personal trainer and group exercise instructor, so I have a good base of knowledge.
Sponsors:
Web site:

The Men!

Jim Seratt
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Jr. Nationals will be my first!
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel really good. I did a
National Qualifier last weekend and looked my all-time best. I've got a
few more tricks up my sleeve to come in even better next weekend in
Chicago.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Bacon Cheeseburger and a Dr.
Pepper!
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
My entire last year and a
half (both off-season and contest prep) was designed by my good friend,
training partner and National Level Super-Heavyweight Competitor, Jason
Bard of Beyond Results Personal Training in Houston, Texas.

David Pulcinella
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
How do you feel going into the show?
I've nailed my
conditioning and I am bigger than ever.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
I do all
my own nutrition and training. I actually do this for
a living for others as well.
Sponsored by:
Body visions fitness center
Web site / email:

Mace Oropeza
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel pretty good but a little exhausted, and exited. I also have a little bit of a hard time making my weight class. I'm in the best contest shape ever. I feel blessed to have a national level close by so I don't have to travel.
How Many Years Training:
I've been training for 7 years.
How Many National Shows:
This will be my third national level contest. I placed 5th at the 2003 npc jr. nationals as a bantam weight. I also competed in this show last year.
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
My goal is to have fun, stay relaxed, look the best I've ever looked and place in the top 5 as a bantam weight or lightweight.
First thing you will eat after the show:
The first thing I'll eat is pizza.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
I do not work with a trainer or nutritionist right now.

Justin Harris
Click To Enlarge.
Live In:
Clinton Township, Michigan
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
This is my first national level competition.
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
To show up in proper condition
How do you feel going into the show?
So far, I'm happy with how my prep has come together.
First thing you will eat after the show:
Something loaded with fat and salt.
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
I work with myself, through www.troponinnutrition.com
Web site / email:

Aaron Rhea
Live In:
How Many Years Training:
How Many National Shows:
Goals For Jr. Nationals:
After coming in 15th place for my first Jr. National Show, my goal is to win my class and the overall.
How do you feel going into the show?
I feel good going into the show; this is the best that I have ever looked.
First thing you will eat after the show:
The first thing I will eat after the show is: Pizza and Twizzlers
Are you working with a trainer - if so who?
My Trainer is Liane Seiwald
Sponsored by:

Look Out Chicago!
If this preview of just a handful of competitors is any indication of what's in store this weekend - look out Chicago - plenty of men and women are bringing it! Other competitors to keep an eye out for are Phillip Heath the genetic freak from Denver, Colorado.
Click To Enlarge.
This will be Phil's first national show. In female bodybuilding a few heads will turn with the blonde bombshell, Melissa Dettwiller.
 |
 |
 |
An Interview With Buff Doll Melissa Dettwiller.
Here is an interview with a great women, who, with the help of a great body, will try to get back a good name for female bodybuilders.
[ Click here to learn more. ] |
|
 |
 |
In Figure it's anyone's guess who will come out on top. Last year it was Abby Duncan who followed up her IRONMAN win with the Jr Nationals victory. Will Alexis Ellis be able to do the same thing year?
2004 NPC Junior Nationals
For more information on the show visit:
http://www.npcjrnationals.com
If you are planning on competing at USAs or Team Universe and would like to be included in the preview articles for those shows, please email me at info@liftstudios.com
Good luck everyone and say hello if you see me in Chicago.
Peace

isaac@liftstudios.com
Recommend this article to a friend by e-mail here!
Visitor Reviews Of This Article!
Read Visitor Reviews - Write Your Own Review
Back To Isaac Hinds' Main Page
Back To The Articles Main Page.
Related Articles
2007 NPC Steel Rose IX Figure Championships Information!
2006 WNBF Pro Natural Ms. Exercise World Figure Contest Info!
NPC 2006 Gold's Gym Treasure Valley Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Championships!