I was involved in gymnastics, volleyball, softball, and co-ed cheerleading growing up and through college. After college, I decided to spend a lot of time in the gym to remain physically fit and active. A trainer approached me and said I had the body to compete. That's when I made the decision to get involved in figure competitions. Shortly after that, I was in two car accidents which delayed my start in the sport. Two years later, I found my current trainer and stepped on stage for the first time.
I enjoy seeing where I can push myself and go beyond the point I was at the previous year. I love being in the gym to remain physically and mentally fit. It's a place for me to get away to, to help clear my mind.
My body and mind motivates me. Seeing improvements both physically and emotionally drives me to continue the healthy lifestyle. I've also got a great support system in my family and friends. People have come to me saying I inspire them, which pushes me keep up the lifestyle. I also have chronic injuries to deal with on a daily basis and know I would not feel as good as I do now if I didn't continue my active, healthy lifestyle.
I've always been involved in sports and enjoyed pushing myself beyond what I had already achieved. I believe I started out in the sport very successfully, so it made me want more. As I continued to succeed, my need to continue moving up grew stronger. At the beginning, some people questioned my ability to do it. That pushed me even harder to prove them wrong. I believe I achieved that.
I will be competing at NPC Junior Nationals in Chicago. After that, not sure what's next.
Always give it 110 percent. It's an amazing feeling when you finally achieve your goals and realize what you're capable of. It will make you want more and drive you harder. Compete against yourself. Don't worry about the competition. We're responsible for our own outcome.
Can't say I have a favorite. I believe everyone works extremely hard to get where they are, no matter what level of competitor they are. Everyone provides inspiration in some form or another, whether it's as a workout partner, or as a motivator to family and friends who support your dreams.
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Thank You: My biggest thank you goes to my trainer, IFBB pro Christine Bongiovanni of On Track Training. She trained me every competition since 2009. She helped get me on stage in the best shape and win.
Thanks to my sponsors Rejuv Medical and Dr. Baumgartner. Dr. Baumgartner and his team helped me through speed bumps so I could step on stage at my best. They also monitor me throughout the year to make sure my body is at optimal health.
Special thanks to my family for supporting me every step of the way. My mom, sister, sister-in-law, and two oldest nieces have never missed one of my competitions. It's an amazing feeling when they wait for me to step off stage and my two nieces run up to me to give me a hug.
Thanks to everyone who helped me through the ups and downs.