I know that it's been QUITE awhile since I've given everyone an update. So, without any further delay, here goes . . .
On July 19th, Diana and Rachel both competed in the 2008 Natural Michigan Bodybuilding, Fitness and Figure Championships at the Redford Theater. It is my understanding that this particular contest was a National Qualifier meaning that the top competitors earn the right to compete in national-level figure events. Diana took first place in the tall class and Rachel took 3rd place in the short class.
Because this event was a National Qualifier, BOTH Diana and Rachel qualified for Junior Nationals and Figure Nationals. To earn the IFBB pro-card in figure, Diana and Rachel must compete in one or both of these national-level events within two years' time. The winner of each height class at Junior Nationals (6 height classes total ) or the top two winners of each height class at Figure Nationals (6 height classes total) earns an IFBB pro card.
These two remarkable women work extraordinarily hard and earned every single bit of their success thus far. Though the competition at the national level is extreme, I truly believe that both of these young ladies have what it takes to be serious national contenders and look forward to helping them along that path.
Now, because I was backstage the ENTIRE time, I didn't have the opportunity to take any pictures. Ugh! And, even though my wonderful colleague Jeff attended the evening event, he was way too far away from the stage to snap any decent pictures. However, I did get a copy of the video that Diana's sister managed to take during prejudging and at the evening show. I gotta be honest . . . it's not the greatest video in the world but at least you get the idea! (Particularly annoying is this man's (or woman's . . . hard to tell) head right in front of where Diana is standing on stage. It's a good thing that I was off to the side . . . I might very well have beheaded him (or her!)) Now, when Diana is announced the winner of the tall class, her sister went a little bit crazy and forgot that she was videotaping!
Both Rachel and Diana will compete one final time this season in the 2008 Central States Bodybuilding, Fitness and Figure Championships (another national qualifier) on Saturday August 2nd at the oh so charming Redford Theater in Detroit (yuck!) So, once again, I will find myself backstage helping them get ready to compete. I will try to get some pictures this time but I really can't make any promises!
Listen carefully . . . bet you can here one insane trainer yelling in the background!
