Background

I started lifting weights the year after high school graduation. I took a one-credit class in weight training. I was amazed by the changes in my appearance in only one month. I lifted on and off for the next eight years.

I didn't get serious about bodybuilding until I was about 27. That's when I started reading all I could about nutrition and training. I jumped from 165 lbs to 220 lbs almost instantly. Within a year and a half I competed in a bodybuilding show for the first time.

After a few years of competition I began getting into physique photography and contest promotion as well. I now help run a federation (OCB - Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders), promote shows, cover events as photographer (www.mattshepley.photoreflect.com), and even publish a magazine about physique competition (Fitness & Physique - www.FitnessandPhysiqueMag.com).

He can be contacted at info@theOCBwebsite.com.

Vital Stats

Age: 35
Height: 6' 2"
Weight: 225 lbs. (about 195 contest weight)
Residence: Fairfax, VA

Pictures

Contest History

May 1999 - Unsanctioned Hot Bodies Competition, Frederick, MD - 1st Overall
May 2000 - NGA Annapolis, Annapolis, MD - 2nd Open LHW
March 2001 - ANBC Lion Country Classic, State College, PA - 1st Open Tall
April 2001 - ANBC Sin City Natural, Las Vegas, NV - 2nd Open Tall
August 2003 - NASF American Challenge, Virginia Beach, VA - 4th Open Tall
September 2003 - INBA Forever Natural International, Las Vegas, NV - 2nd Open Tall

Articles :: Sorted By Date

Chet Yorton: The Father Of Natural Bodybuilding.
Chet Yorton made a speech in 1975 at the first bodybuilding competition that performed testing for steroid use. Of natural bodybuilders, he said, 'See friends, these are the real champions'.
Section: Contests :: Feb 25, 2005

Posing From A Judge's Perspective.
Have you ever given much thought about the judging processes at competitions? Have you ever really thought deeply about what a judge experiences as he or she attempts to score your class? Learn what they are looking for...
Section: Contests :: Feb 25, 2005

Beware Of Overdoing It: The Pitfalls Of Pre-Contest Diet And Training!
There seems to be two more obvious reasons why physique competitors don't achieve as much definition as they hope to for a show. One is not applying enough effort and the other is to much effort. Read on to learn some of the symptoms of overtraining.
Section: Training :: May 24, 2005

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