What's on the horizon for 2012?

Well, I'm officially off-season now..

2011 was both a frustrating & game changing year for me.. I prepped for a show in November but was unable to take the stage. That was a bit disappointing but I knew that my heart was really set on the competitions in 2012.

I started working with a coach in 2011 (Noel Fuller). I have to say that prepping with him was the most pleasant experience I've had since starting to compete in 2006. I had coaches from 2006 until 2008. From 2009 to 2010 I entered competitions without a coach, doing all my own prep, but Noel was able to bring me to a higher level of conditioning.. exactly what I've been after the past couple years. I still manage my weight training, but Noel over-sees my diet & is my Guru for problem solving and being blatantly honest I appreciate his critique or opinion.

Here's some photos of my conditioning under Noel: November 26, 2011 (This is before I was to take the stage so I'm not pumped up yet, but you can see the striations ready to pop)

 

 

Although I couldn't take the stage I feel that I'm finally at the point where I'll be confident on the Provincial & National stage.. I have applied to be considered for sponsorship with fusion bodybuilding in 2012 as well. It's my hope everything will come together for me.. I know I have the potential to be a top champion.. the only thing holding me back is finances. A sponsorship would certainly make a big difference for me.

So the plan is to do the Toronto Pro Supershow June 1, in Toronto. Then to do the CBBF Nationals in the fall (this show will be the more expensive due to location). 

I'm excited about the new season. In 1 week I start my heavy training again... I have a couple months to really put on some decent mass before I start dieting again (February 1st). I'm confident I can make some big changes in my physique.. 

My big dream (like many) is to win my pro card in 2012... :) Stay tuned!

Peace Out!

Change of Plans for the Competitive Season

I'm sad to report I am unable to follow through with the Lady OM MMXI show this December 1st for several reasons (financial included). All shows are expensive, but this one would have been terribly stressful on me financially & even with fund-raising I wouldn't be sure I would have enough money to do the event (and I really didn't want to cancel at the last minute, so I withdrew early). It's my hope I might be able to do this event next year...

Since I was already 2 months into my contest prep (financially especially), I have decided to do a local show in Ontario on November 26th 2011. I'm about 9.5 weeks out right now.. I have made major improvements to weak areas of my physique & i continue to do so. I am ecstatic to be working with Noel Fuller as a coach this season. Most of the excitement for me is seeing my conditioning brought to a higher level than I've reached before. I'm feeling great considering my training sessions have increased to 5-6 days a week. This is possible with a high quality diet & supplements (I spend a small fortune every month in the supplement store), but it's showing. I am ahead of schedule with fat-loss, but am dealing with water retention. This isn't an issue yet except aesthetically.. near the show this is where Noel's expertise will come into play.

I'm excited to be doing this local show with friends and fellow-competitors. I don't believe competitors should be cut-throat. There is enough room for all of us on stage, and honestly my heart is more determined to achieve personal goals in my conditioning than to "win". I have to adopt this attitude as I cherish the camaraderie amongst my fellow athletes.

Here are some quick progress pictures of me at 10 weeks out & 148lbs:

I will post the show details shortly.. Still waiting for the event details on the website to be made available.

I'm a little rushed for time today (it's leg training day)--so i'll cut this update short.. I'll post soon. Stay healthy and happy... Remember, nothing worthwhile is instant, it requires determination, commitment, consistency and passion.... Whatever you do, do with your whole heart. Have a wonderful, productive day! :)