Home:
2005 - preparing to move to Scottsdale, Arizona by May. I grew up in
Central Illinois, moved to Clearwater, Florida in the mid 80's for 3
years, then moved to Asheville, North Carolina for 3 years. Returned
to Bloomington, Illinois in 1991, where I established residency for
the next 14 years.
Occupation: Mortgage
Lending and Personal Trainer. I have been in the Financial Industry
for over 25 years.
FITNESS/BODYBUILDING HISTORY:
My passion for weight training began back in the late 80's. However,
I was ALWAYS athletic since childhood. I was a participating athlete
in softball and volleyball most of my teenage years. But I didn't join
my first gym until 1987. I remember going to a beach in Florida in 1986,
where I witnessed my first real view of a female bodybuilder. I was
in total awe, very inspired, and knew I wanted to obtain that look.
It wasn't until 1990 that I truly began to train in a serious fashion.
I was going through a divorce, so the commitment was very therapeutic
for me. Once I got involved, I was hooked. I never really gave competition
a serious thought until many years later, in 1999. I always felt that
my aesthetics were lacking, for I knew my lower body was not up to par
with my upper body. So I changed my training approach, and consulted
with a great friend and veteran of the sport. He coached me to make
the necessary changes to my training and eating habits, and fin! ally
I started to see the results I had longed for. I hit the NPC stage in
April, 2002. I won 2 championships and 2 overall titles at the Mid Illinois
Regional Show in Ottawa, Illinois. I then competed at the Midwest Ironman
in Chicago, in November 2002. Again, I took both titles and 2 overall
wins. From there, I went to Nationals in Dallas, Texas in November 2002.
It was there that I decided to take my training down a different path.
My body was more in tune with a "Fitness" physique than bodybuilding.so
in December, 2002, I set my sites on Fitness! It took me 1.5 years to
feel ready for my first show...this change was far reaching, and grueling.
I hit the stage in June 2004.
I placed 3rd in this show. I was on target with my physique
rounds, but was advised and encouraged to improve my routine. So I have
devoted the time since to diversify my training, and it has paid off.
I plan to compete again in September, 2005.
A typical training day for me would include morning and
evening sessions, while making sure I get in 5-7 meals throughout the
day. It is essential to incorporate some serious time to stretching
and strength moves. The flexibility continues to be my biggest challenge,
but the improvements I have witnessed in all areas of my skills show
me great promise and continue to motivate me!
I cannot believe how quickly time passes...so I encourage
all of you to make the most of what you do in life. I do not let age
get in the way of my determination, for age is just a number. I gauge
my efforts on how I feel. So don't ever allow yourself to believe it
is too late, that will only hold you back from achieving great things.
When it comes to fitness, do what you love, with passion and perseverance!
You will be greatly rewarded with a healthy level of self esteem...not
to mention a great physique to boot!
I extend my deepest gratitude to all of those friends
and family who support and encourage me along the way. They are essential
to my quest!
