Brenda Letendre
You last saw her on the 2005 Provincial
Bodybuilding Championship stage, in her home town of
Edmonton. "I placed 4th…. I felt a little
disappointed in my placing, but I know it isn't just
about winning; it's also about the experience."
Brenda's currently working with trainer Raejha Douziech
(www.atyourpeak.ca),
in preparation for the 2006 Provincial BB
Championships. "My goals are to be more focused on
dieting and making some changes. Commitment, confidence
and determination make up the recipe."
There's not much 'free time' for this
Capricorn. In addition to being self-employed, "I am a
single mother with a beautiful and talented daughter.
She's a hockey player (Edmonton Chimos), so we're busy
with that." Brenda also makes time for her dogs, seeing
movies, spending time outdoors and enjoying time with
friends. And of course, enjoying an occasional
Frappacino Light at Starbucks!
Brenda describes herself as 'determined
and resilient', which explains why it bothers her when
people don't see the potential in themselves. That
determination and resilience has prepared her well as a
bodybuilder. When I asked her what she enjoys most
about competing, Brenda replied, "The people. The
competitors are very supportive."
"I'd like to thank my coaches, friends
and family for all their support… especially during the
last 10 days (ha ha)!"
Good
luck, Brenda!
Tracy Royer
(Photo
by David Ford)
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This
southern Alberta Figure athlete has a great outlook on the world
of competition. Tracy placed 2nd in
her class at the 2005 Provincial Figure
Championships in Edmonton. Would she change
anything about the show? "Not a thing. It was
a great experience…. I was ecstatic (about the
outcome), knowing that I was competing against a
great veteran builder."
So what's
next on this Taurus's agenda? She'll continue
to work on bringing up a few body parts, and try
to look her very best for the 2006 Figure
Nationals (also in Edmonton – yippee! By
the way, if you're in the audience for this
show, Tracy would REALLY appreciate any
donations of sushi and/or chocolate.) She'll
continue to train herself, and seek nutritional
advice from Barry Jones of Destination Perfection
in Calgary.
But until then? What about home life? "I
forgot I had one of those! When I'm home I'm
usually sleeping, so home life rocks."
Tracy has a variety of
non-training interests. When she's not busy
working in MRI medical reception or doing nail
enhancements, she can be found traveling,
skiing, hiking, camping, or running…
(note from Asha: I'm tired just writing this.) |
As many of us know, it takes commitment
and determination to diet and train for this type of
competition. And Tracy knows that she has just that
determination to make it. But we all know that
sometimes we need a little extra 'push' to make it
through the process. "I have to say that there are two
very special people in my life whom both inspire and
motivate me to do my best at all possible times. Those
people are Barry Jones and his wife Heather (one of my
dearest friends). Thanks you guys, you're the
greatest." And it's always motivating to see change in
ourselves. Tracy's favorite part of the sport is
watching the evolution of her body. "It amazes me each
year the changes that occur in a person's figure and the
limits that the body can withstand. We are all truly
remarkable."
Any shout-outs? "I would like to thank
Jay Hutton and EW for their wisdom. Without you two I
would not be on this stage today with the confidence
that it takes. I truly feel that EW brought me to the
top with my posing. And with Jay, no matter how badly I
would see myself, with one word the man can make me feel
great about my physique by always shining on my best
parts."
Good
work, Tracy!
Ian Hunter
(Photo by David Ford)
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Now this is one small-town boy
with big-time success. Born in Bonnyville,
Alberta, this Libra has continued to wow judges
and spectators year after year. And 2005 has
been no different. Ian took to the stage on
June 25th to show off a stellar
physique, which many thought couldn't have been
improved upon. And he was rewarded for his
efforts: He won the Overall Men's title,
competing in Heavyweight Bodybuilding. "I felt
very shocked; I could almost not believe that
I'd finally won!" Despite the win, Ian says
that he would have changed his fat / carb
loading phase. "I needed to ad more carbs,
because I still looked a little flat."
So who is the genius behind this
self-motivated athlete? "I do it all (dieting
and training) by myself. Home life is pretty
repetitious. Most of my time is spent
cooking!" When he's not in the kitchen or the
gym, Ian can be found working (drywalling),
studying (U of A student), or enjoying one of
his many hobbies: Golf, hockey, girls, of course
(by the way, he doesn't like girls who smoke
or don't take care of themselves, but you
can get in his good books with a hearty supply
of toast with peanut butter and honey) and
hanging out with friends and family. |
Ian wants to acknowledge those people who
have inspired and motivated him to reach this point.
"My family and close friends have given me supreme
support. This has led me to where I am now."
Any final thoughts about bodybuilding?
"It really helps out in all areas of my life, by means
of developing will power, motivation, and self-control."
Ian has no firm plans as of yet. "Possibly 2006
Nationals. I have no expectations. Like all other
shows, I just go and be the best that I can possibly be
at that time."
Go get
'em, kid.
Meghan
McCurdy (Photo by
Trevor Howell - 323 Photographix)
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Meghan had a tough
time coming up with one word to describe
herself, but when she finally arrived at
'happy', I couldn't agree more! Meghan McCurdy
is an incredible athlete. It was during her
last competition (first ever!) that she proved
this to everyone in the house. Meghan competed
in the Provincial Fitness Championships in June
2005 (Calgary), where she placed 3rd!
"I was fairly happy with my 3rd place
finish, especially since this was my first
show. But, at the same time, I know there is
room for improvement. Looking back, there were
a few things that I would have like to have done
better like my posing. The important thing is
to learn from each experience." Words from a
true champion.
Meghan continues
to work with Raejha Douziech (www.atyourpeak.ca)
in this off-season to increase muscle mass.
She's also working hard at improving her
posing. This girl's going to be a force to
reckon with. Mark my words. |
While her off-season training does take
up a lot of her time, Meghan is also involved in
Capoeira (Brazilian Martial Arts). "I try to train
Capoeira whenever I can find some time." This is tough
to do after you add up the training, gymnastics and
coaching she does. "I also enjoy reading, biking,
hiking, traveling, spending time with my boyfriend
Cameron, my family, friends, and pets Dakota (dog) and
Heccubus (cat)." Throw a career as a web developer into
the mix, and there's not much downtime for this Libra!
"Cameron and I are both really busy people with work and
training, so we really do try to enjoy our time
together."
So what makes this fitness competitor
tick? "A challenge motivates me. A goal motivates me.
Watching people work hard and achieve their goals
inspires me. Being a role model to someone is
inspiring. My favorite thing about this sport is the
amazing people I've met! I also LOVE competing.
Stepping on stage is totally worth all the cardio and
months of dieting." (Hmm… I'm
not QUITE sold on that one yet…)
Any final thoughts? "I would like to
thank my family and friends; especially my boyfriend
Cameron, my mom Linda, my sister Erin and my niece
Bailey. Your love and support is amazing and knowing
you are behind me 100% sure makes all the difference. I
would like to thank Raejha for her guidance and support
– she is the best – and the wonderful people that I've
met on this adventure. I would also like to thank my
sponsor Phoenix Gymnastics"
Keep on shining, Meg!
When did you win your Pro card?
Women's Middleweight BB, 2000 Canadian National BB
Championship
What Pro shows have you done?
2001 Arnold Classic, 2005 California Pro Figure
What do you do for a living?
I am the Western Canada Training Coordinator for
Rockwell Automation. I also manage my own business –
diet, training, spray tanning, clothing, supplements and
competition product.
Where were you born? St.
Albert, AB
What's your sign? Aries
Do you have any siblings?
Yes, one brother.
What's your favorite cheat meal?
Cookies
Do you have pets? Two
dogs. A Jack Russell Terrier named Amanda and a Boxer
named Shenu.
Marital status? Unmarried
but attached
What's your favorite color?
Blue
Are you a morning or night
person? Morning
Are you a better singer or
dancer? Dancer
What's your favorite
non-fitness/bb sport to watch? Ballroom dancing and
gymnastics
What about to play? I love
all sports.
Do you crave sugar or salt?
Neither – I mainly crave protein
What's in your CD player right
now? I hardly ever use it.
What's your favorite body part
to train? Chest and Legs
If you could be any superhero,
who would it be and why? Wolverine – he rocks!
Who would you like to meet, dead
or alive? No one in particular
Pick one word to describe
yourself: (hmmm, she left this one blank)
When's your next show? No
more shows – baby time (keep your fingers crossed!)
Who's your biggest fan?
Wayne; not just for competing, but in everything I do,
no matter how small it is.
What's your best advice to
amateurs in this sport? Do your research, get a
plan and give it 110%.
When did you win your Pro card?
2004 CBBF Nationals
What Pro shows have you done?
None
What do you do for a living?
Prison Guard and Personal Trainer
Where were you born?
Winnipeg, MB
What's your sign? Aquarius
Do you have any siblings?
Not that I'm aware of
What's your favorite cheat meal?
Bacon, Eggs Benedict and pancakes with whipped cream and
strawberries
Do you have pets? My Boys!
(see photo)
Marital status? Happily
attached
What's your favorite color?
Blue
Are you a morning or night
person? I'm good between noon and 7 p.m.
Are you a better singer or
dancer? Back in the day I carried my own sheet of
cardboard around. Bust it! Know what I'ma sayin',
boooy!?
What's your favorite
non-fitness/bb sport to watch? Bull riding
What about to play? Strip
poker.
Do you crave sugar or salt?
Sugar and spice because we know what 'nice things' those
make up!
What's in your CD player right
now? Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite (at home),
Metallica Load (in the truck)
What's your favorite body part
to train? Whatever I have to train that day
If you could be any superhero,
who would it be and why? Any one of them that wears
shiny tights… because they live in shiny tights, of
course!
Who would you like to meet, dead
or alive? Any old ghost, as long as they are
friendly or the Dalai Lama
Pick one word to describe
yourself: Happy
When's your next show? 2006
Who's your biggest fan? My
Girl!!
What's your best advice to
amateurs in this sport? Take your time to search
for good advice and be patient.
When did you win your Pro card?
2004 Canadian National Figure Competition
What Pro shows have you done?
2004 GNC Show of Strength (T17), 2005 Pittsburgh Pro
Figure (T17), 2005 California Pro Figure (16th),
2005 Toronto Pro Show (2nd – Qualified for
2005 Olympia!)
What do you do for a living?
Owner Physical Therapy and Acupuncture Company;
Consultant to aspiring Figure, BB and Fitness Model
athletes
Where were you born?
Winnipeg, MB
What's your sign? Leo
Do you have any siblings?
One younger brother and one older sister
What's your favorite cheat meal?
Dim Sum (favorite foods: natural peanut butter, dark
chocolate)
Do you have pets? I had 6
cats growing up, but Dave is ultra-allergic to cats, so
now I just have a lot of cat memorabilia
Marital status? Happily
married to the one and only Dave
What's your favorite color?
Red
Are you a morning or night
person? Night
Are you a better singer or
dancer? I sang in various choirs growing up and
took a dance class as I was considering fitness in late
2002 – probably a better singer
What's your favorite
non-fitness/bb sport to watch? Texas Hold-em (is
that a real sport??)
What about to play? Track
and field events
Do you crave sugar or salt?
Sugar
What's in your CD player right
now? Either hard rock or hip-hop
What's your favorite body part
to train? Shoulders
If you could be any superhero,
who would it be and why? I do like how Spiderman
has that Spidey sense…
Who would you like to meet, dead
or alive? Here's a shallow answer – Johnny Depp or
Brad Pitt – they're HOT!
Pick one word to describe
yourself: Dedicated
When's your next show? For
sure the 2005 Figure Olympia and the Bulk Nutrition
Figure show two weeks prior.
Who's your biggest fan? Not
sure about this one… maybe we need to take a survey!
What's your best advice to
amateurs in this sport? Get professional coaching
and stick to it.
When did you win your Pro card?
1996 Canada Cup, Montreal (BB)
What Pro shows have you done?
1996-2000 Jan Tana, 1999 World Pro Show, 1999 and 2001
Pro Extravaganza, 2003 Night of Champions
What do you do for a living?
Co-owner of Elite Muscle and Fitness, Nutritional
Consultant, Personal Trainer, Accountant, Secretary
Treasurer of Alberta Bodybuilding Association
Where were you born?
Edmonton, AB
What's your sign? Cancer
Do you have any siblings?
One brother and two sisters
What's your favorite cheat meal?
Steak dinner in a nice restaurant
Do you have pets? Nope
Marital status? Married to
my soul mate, love of my life; my best friend and
business partner Brian Logue, for 13½ years.
What's your favorite color?
Pink
Are you a morning or night
person? Morning; I enjoy the quiet in the morning
Are you a better singer or
dancer? Neither! I can't sing a note or dance a
step!
What's your favorite
non-fitness/bb sport to watch? Boxing
What about to play? Boxing
Do you crave sugar or salt?
I have no cravings at all when I diet
What's in your CD player right
now? I love the sound of silence. We listen to
music all day at the gym, so dead silence is my best
friend
What's your favorite body part
to train? Back
If you could be any superhero,
who would it be and why? Brian and I both have
parents that are struggling with Cancer. We have a dear
friend who is also fighting this disease. Individuals
that fight this disease and stay positive are true
superheroes.
Who would you like to meet, dead
or alive? Arnold
Pick one word to describe
yourself: Stubborn
When's your next show? I
haven't decided whether I want to do another
bodybuilding show. I'm enjoying boxing right now.
Who's your biggest fan? My
husband
What's your best advice to
amateurs in this sport? Success comes from drive,
discipline, organization and perseverance. Never give
up on your dream. If you believe, it will happen.
Name:
Helen Bouchard
(Photo supplied by Helen)
When did you win your Pro card?
I earned my Pro Card by winning the
Women's Overall the CBBF Canadian National Bodybuilding
Competition in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan in September
2003.
What Pro shows have you done?
I have done only one Pro Bodybuilding
Show so far and it was the 2004 Night Of Champions in
New York City.
What do you do for a living? I
am a full time Registered Nurse and also train/diet a
few people on the side.
Where were you born?
I was born in Sherbooke, Quebec.
What's your sign?
Leo.
Do you have any siblings?
I have one older brother.
What's your favorite cheat meal?
Ice Cream or peanut butter and jam on
rice cakes.
Do you have pets?
I don't have any pets, but I love
animals and am planning to get a Rotweiller in a couple
of years.
Marital status?
Married.
What's your favorite color?
Red
Are you a morning or night
person? Morning.
Are you a better singer or
dancer? I hate dancing but do
sing very poorly in my car, by myself.
What's your favorite
non-fitness/bb sport to watch?
Women's boxing, women's tennis, women's hockey, women's
softball.
Do you crave sugar or salt?
Sugar.
What's in your CD player right
now? Two Elvis Presley CDs,
Melissa Etheridge, KD Lang, Sarah Mclachlan and Indigo
Girls.
What's your favorite body part
to train? Chest.
If you could be any superhero,
who would it be and why? Xena,
because she is a woman warrior.
Who would you like to meet, dead
or alive? Oprah Winfrey
Pick one word to describe
yourself: Chocolate.....;-))
When's your next show?
I am requesting an invitation to the
2006 Ms International and if I don't get invited the
first Pro Show following it, which is Night of Champions
in New York City.
Who's your biggest fan?
Diana Dennis - IFBB Pro Bodybuilder
and Member of the IFBB Hall of Fame.
What's your best advice to
amateurs in this sport? Make all
diet and training decisions based on your physique and
personal goals. Eat clean,
train with intensity and supplement wisely.
Thank you so much to all of you for
taking time out to let Alberta get to know YOU!!
Brandi Burns
(Photo supplied by Brandi)
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Spectators' last chance to see Brandi Burns on stage
was at Muscle Beach 2004. And it was much more
of a journey than a destination for this Edmonton
native. "I think I learned more about myself
physically, emotionally, spiritually in those 18
weeks than in all previous years combined….
I'm simply not the same person I was this time last
year. In hindsight, of course, there are some
things that I will do differently. Of course,
living it, and seeing / unwrapping yourself for the
first time is just amazing, shocking, there are no
proper words."
Lucky for her fans, Brandi will be hitting the Muscle
Beach stage again this November. "My goal in the
off-season this year was to put on some size…. I've done
alright with that. My trainer, Raejha Douziech,
predicts my stage weight to be 118 lbs. this year,
which is a 9-lb. increase from last year. I
really have my hopes on winning a bi to provincials.
So through this show, I'm hoping to compete in
provincials 2007 (as a heavyweight!)" |
How does Brandi fill her time in the off-season? "I've
spent a great deal of time reading up on the subjects of
bodybuilding and athletics. I hope to be able to have the
lingo to bounce ideas off my trainer, to be somewhat
self-sufficient. I think it helps in establishing a level
of communication with your trainer if you educate yourself
a little bit."
And don't think that Brandi sits around doing nothing all
day long… "I keep myself very busy. Besides bodybuilding,
I always have at least 2 other sports on the side. I have
studied Taekwon-do since I was 19. Of course my job is
all consuming. Everything revolves around the job. I
work with a great group of people, and there is never a
dull moment."
Egomaniacs and power trippers are among Brandi's pet
peeves. "Lots of people have low self-confidence, but
when it manifests itself in such a way that it is harmful
to others, I get really annoyed."
Self-described as original, Brandi is ultimately inspired
by her grandparents. "They symbolize exactly the kind of
person I wish to be in terms of truth, loyalty,
generosity, love, responsibility and endless youth."
Brandi's stepfather, Bryan, is also an inspiration to
her. He was the first person who introduced her to
weightlifting at the age of six! "My Aunt Mary, such a
patient and tolerant soul, has the ability to completely
understand individual perceptions, and does so without any
judgment."
In
the wide (he he) world of bodybuilding, there are several
people who have motivated Brandi to succeed. Lisa
Bavington (for her thoughtful and hilarious articles) –
"Besides having a stellar physique, she has the courage to
say what everyone else is thinking. I totally admire that
quality." Brandi has also been guided and mentored by
Matt Clary and Jody Wald. "I'm always learning something
new with these guys, and just when I think I've got it
figured out, I get blindsided with something else. It's
unreal. Matt and Jo are really the epitome of kindness."
"Of course Raejha – even though I haven't known her for
very long, it seems like longer. I've never met anyone
who could simultaneously give 100% to something and at the
same time not worry about the outcome. She's a positive
vibrant spirit and I'm hoping it's contagious! Thanks,
Smurf, for keeping me grounded!"
Jackie
Montain-Vos
(Photo supplied by Jackie)
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Jackie Montain-Vos was born in St. Albert, but was
transplanted at the age of three to a little town near
Fernie, BC, where people drove their snowmobiles down the
streets, and nobody had to lock the doors. So how did she
end up as a Figure competitor years later? "I try to
gather little bits of inspiration from everyone I meet.
Of course, we all look up to family members, sports pros
and celebrities; but when inspiration comes from someone
you see on a daily basis, it's right there in your face
all the time."
And it's that inspiration that brought Jackie into our
spotlight. Her very first competition was in November of
2004, at the Sandra Wickham Fall Classic, in Burnaby B.C.
And what a first show! Jackie placed 5th
out of 17 Figure tall girls! "I was stoked, and
definitely ready for more…"
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Like many other competitors, Jackie solicited feedback
from the show's Head Judge, and took it upon herself to
work on the specific areas that needed improvement during
the off-season. "While I might not have had the time
required to make major muscle gains between these shows,
I've put a lot of effort into my posing and stage
presence. I think this is something that I didn't
appreciate quite so much the first time around – I think
this might be a mistake that many newbie competitors
make."
You can see Jackie this year at the Alberta Provincial
Figure competition (June 25th in Edmonton), and
"very likely at the World Qualifier in Regina two weeks
later." As much as she'd love to try fitness or compete
in Figure again at the Sandra Wickham Fall Classic 2005,
Jackie knows that she needs to take a long off-season to
put on some serious quality lean mass. "I'm really
looking forward to a fall and winter of heaps of food and
NO CARDIO!" And she's thinking about broadening her
spectrum. "After the past weekend at Southerns, I wonder
if I might try to add Women's Bodybuilding to my
repertoire next year…"
What a go-getter! And it doesn't stop at competing! "My
husband, Dave, and I have had this really big project on
the go for about a year and a half – our house! We worked
with our contractor from the initial design stages, did a
lot of construction and finish work. Installing hardwood
floors is the best butt workout around! I love doing the
decorating inside – slipcovers, curtains, flower
arrangements and all that girly stuff… just call me Martha
Stewart!"
That being said, Jackie and her husband don't have all
that much time to just hang out together at home. "While
my career as a lab instructor in the Geography department
at the University of Lethbridge is great and really
fulfilling, I also have a wild alter-ego that bartends on
weekends at a club! Dave is a Civil Engineering student
and also works part-time, so you can imagine how crazy
things get for us!"
What makes it all worthwhile for this busy couple is that
they're also parents of a little Terripoo named Jif.
"Anyone who has trouble getting morning cardio in should
get a dog… even just a little guy. If we don't get up and
outside with him every morning, well, we really regret
it!"
Jackie has found inspiration and motivation in
motivational quotes. "The one posted right next to my
computer this season is from Muhammed Ali: 'Champions
aren't made in the gyms. Champions are made from
something they have deep inside them: A desire, a dream,
a vision.'" And it's clear that this multi-faceted talent
has what it takes.
Any shout-outs? "A very special thanks to my family and
friends, especially my husband Dave, mom Linda and my
'girls', Sue and Shari. It's these people that listen to
my endless chatter about protein/starch/fiber breakdowns
and all those other intellectually stimulating topics. I
also wouldn't have been able to compete without the help
of Michelle Berlando, another Alberta Fitness competitor
here in Lethbridge who does my nutrition and workout plans
and keeps me away from Dairy Queen! As well, a big hug
going out to Tanya Sheehan, who started me on this path
about four years ago with my first BodyArt
Transformation. Finally, thanks to Asha Menon and David
Ford for providing us with this great forum!"
Jamie Senuk - Photo by David
Ford
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This girl is one tough customer. She last competed at the
CBBF Fitness and Figure Nationals, placing second by ONE
point. "I am very happy with the outcome as my primary
goal this year was to have a solid routine… this is the
first time I've ever competed and watched the video
without being totally embarrassed!"
Although Jamie has been swamped with training, starting a
new job and helping friends prepare for Provincial
Fitness, she's decided to compete in Provincial Figure on
June 25th. WOW! Sounds like a lot of work!
"My trainer (Raejha Douziech of Peak Fitness) and I
completely overhauled my training and diet to change my
physique…. Depending how that (Provincial Figure)
goes, I plan on doing Nationals again next year, although
at this point I'm not sure if it will be in Fitness or
Figure. Ideally, I'd love to have a Provincial
title… however, my main goal for doing Figure Provincials
is just to see what dieting is like without the routine
and how much I can change my conditioning."
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Jamie describes herself as driven, and as a close
friend of hers, I couldn't agree more. Born in Edmonton,
Jamie finds inspiration in many people. "A lot of other
athletes inspire me. Watching people overcome obstacles
like cravings, injuries and fatigue to achieve their goals
motivates me daily. My friend and trainer, Raejha,
inspires me by not letting me put any limitations on my
abilities. I'm also inspired by people that I've
influenced to lead a healthier life or challenge
themselves by competing."
She is definitely serious when it comes to training and
competing, but Jamie's a lot of fun, too. Her idea of fun
is shopping, eating, outside activity, gymnastics and
reading. "The most enjoyable time for me on-season is
when I'm training… Lately it seems the only things I do
are cooking, sleeping and cardio!!"
Any shout-outs? "First, I want to thank you (Asha
Menon) and David Ford for giving your time to this
site and all of the great athletes in this province; it's
appreciated! I have to thank Raejha for her guidance, for
pushing me and for being a great friend. I also want to
thanks the 'Tuesday Night Girls' (you included, Ash!) for
being the best dieting support ever! Also thanks to my
roommate, Shawna, who is an amazing friend, for her
continual support. I also want to thank anyone who's ever
offered me words of encouragement… it means a lot!"
Rob Chalifoux (Photo
supplied by Rob)
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Edmonton-born Rob Chalifoux is definitely a bodybuilder to
be reckoned with. His last competition was the 2000
Alberta Bodybuilding Championships, where Brian Logue
helped prep him to win the light heavyweight category. "I
didn't pull out the overall, and I didn't like that
outcome. Dan Fedeluk won the heavyweights, and if he had
won the overall, I would have been a lot happier. I
didn't like some of the stuff I saw at the show, but I am
over it."
Rob traveled all over the world as a professional wrestler
after the 2000 show. "I have been living life.
I realized after the 2000 show that there is more to life
than chicken and rice, and I wanted to explore other
avenues for a while. I taught some wrestling and
have just been busy working, training, and enjoying my
life and the people in it."
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Speaking of the people in it, Rob finds his most enjoyment
in talking to his new wife! "I have been dieting for ten
and a half weeks and I'm starting to forget what it is
like to have fun… lol!!" But, after my next show, I plan
on doing some traveling and just messing around and
enjoying life!"
Rob Chalifoux is a passionate man, and you're going to get
a chance to see that in his next competition. He'll be
competing on June 25th at the Alberta
Bodybuilding Championships to re-qualify for Nationals.
"My goal is to win the overall; that would make me very,
very happy. But what I'm really after is re-qualifying
for Nationals and really making a mark in 2006."
This champion is fortunate to have had many sources of
inspiration throughout his life. "My father inspires me
to help and support the people that I love
unconditionally. My wife inspires me to keep my eyes open
and learn. A couple of guys that really inspired me to
start competing again are Dan Fedeluk and Ron Partlow.
They really supported me last year when I was prepping for
a photo shoot. They both told me I should do another
show. And here I am – only weeks away from the Albertas!"
Rob also wants to send out a "thank you" to a few other
people that motivated him to get back into bodybuilding:
Jessica Oscroft, Mike Spencer and Tennille Barber.
"Without their support, I might not have done another
show. They also inspired me with their work ethic as well
as their physiques, as do Big Ron and Pro Dan."
Lori Merk - Photo by David
Ford
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I feel VERY fortunate to have
caught up with Lori Merk to find out what she's been
doing! For those of you who don't know Lori, she's
had a whirlwind of success since the beginning of
her competition career. Her first competition was
at the Northerns in 2003, where she placed 1st
in Masters, Light Weight AND Women's Overall! But
that's not it! Just a week later at the Provincial
show, she placed 1st in Light Weight and
took the Women's Overall again!! "It was like a
dream come true!" she says, "I was completely
surprised and really blown away to do so well in my
very first competition and then to repeat it at
Provincials…I'm just very grateful that my whole
journey was so blessed, right from the dieting to
the show, it was all amazing and truly so much more
than I ever imagined… I wasn't thinking past each
moment because you train so hard for so long and
it's all over in an instant and I didn't want to
miss a thing!"
Will we get to see her on the
stage again? "I haven't really decided what's next
for me. Maybe Nationals next year in Vancouver or
maybe I'll switch gears altogether and try Fitness
or Figure… I admire the transition Debbie (Leung)
has made to Figure Pro – so who knows?" |
Born in Grande Prairie, Lori has spent some of her 'off'
time as a statistician at a few Alberta shows, and plans
to do it again this year for Northerns and for Muscle
Beach. "I had to take some time off from the gym due to a
rotator cuff injury I sustained four weeks before
Provincials and that took a very long time to heal
completely. Lately, I've just been training and making up
for lost time (and tempers) with my husband Darin."
Speaking of your husband, Lori, what's home life like?
What do you do for fun?
"Darin and I love to travel to beautiful, warm, exotic
places, but when we're not on holidays I'm a very relaxed
and private person at home. I spend lots of time taking
long, hot bubble baths, watching movies and hanging out
with my husband and our baby… she's our 1 year old
American Bulldog named Caesar. I dote on her and she
takes up a lot of our free time but I'm thankful she has
such energy and personality because she pretty much kept
my butt off the couch all winter!" Self-described as
positive, Lori says that out of her 'many' pet peeves, the
one that gets her the most is "people who drive too slow
in the fast lane (on the highway and in life)."
Where do you find inspiration? "I find inspiration in
many people – from my Dad who taught me to believe in
myself to Emily Dickinson who reminds me with her
thoughtful words to "dwell in possibility"; but my
most powerful inspiration comes from Darin, who is my
absolute biggest fan and the best part of myself! He
always helps me see the good in everything. (I'd like to
give) Huge HUGS & KISSES to Darin and Caesar xoxo
for being their loving, accepting, goofy, awesome selves!
Thanks to my coaches, Brian and Donna Logue, for their
unwavering belief in my potential and then helping me
realize it. All the hard cores at Hardcore Gym and all
the athletes who encouraged and supported me – Best of
Luck to each of you in all your pursuits! Thanks to David
Ford for offering such a wonderful forum and for
continuing to flatter me, by posting my photos on his
excellent websites; and last but not least, thank you Asha
for this opportunity."
My pleasure,
Lori… thank YOU!
Erin Halward - Photo
supplied by Erin
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Born and raised in Calgary, Erin
Halward is a face you're going to see a lot in the
future of Figure. Her first show was the 2004
Alberta Provincial Figure competition, where she
placed 14th out of 21 girls in the short
class (tough competition!!). How did you enjoy the
experience, Erin? "I think the outcome was so
exciting and I was very proud of myself for making
it on stage. My goals last year were not to win,
but to do my best and prove to myself that I could
do it. I went beyond my expectations and it was
such a wonderful experience to meet such supportive
people and know that we all worked very hard to get
up there."
Watch for Erin at this year's CBBF World Qualifiers
(Figure) in Regina on July 9th. "I'm
very excited because I have a lot of support and I
have made some big improvements since last year. I
know what to expect this time around, the dieting is
easier and my body is reacting very well to my
training. I am just going to continue to work hard,
stay positive and know that I gave it my all." What
a great attitude. |
It's no wonder, then, that Erin's pet peeve is "people who
try to bring others down because they don't have the
strength to try and reach their goals on their own. If
you are not happy with something, change it, because no
one is going to change it for you. Don't criticize
someone else's aspirations because you don't believe in
them; instead you should learn from those who have been
successful and use it to build your own success." I
couldn’t agree more, Erin.
Erin has spent the majority of her off-season time doing
volunteer work for a cause that is very close to her
heart. "It takes a lot of time and dedication outside of
my normal daily life but I believe it is worth it in the
end. I'm also in the process of putting together my
application for the Calgary Police Service."
Erin's infectious personality lends itself to an
action-packed life. "I am kind of a tomboy when it comes
to my idea of fun. I love to go offroading and work on my
Jeep when I can find the time. I am a very outdoorsy
person and my happy place is definitely in the
backcountry, whether it be camping, fishing, hiking or
just having a picnic. I am also in the process of getting
my firearms license very soon to learn how to develop my
accuracy and learn proper handgun safety. (look out
boys). My home life is hectic. I don't have much
time outside of my volunteering, career, sports, cooking,
friends and training. If I have time to sit down at home,
I know I could be doing something else more important."
When I asked Erin about her sources of inspiration, she
had a tough time answering. "…For me it depends what it
is I'm being inspired with. I find inspiration mainly
through challenge and hard work and I also find it in
people every day. If I had to come to one answer I would
have to say that I continue to inspire myself just by
accomplishing my goals and following my dreams. No one
can control my life but me, so I strive to be the best
that I can and am very passionate and dedicated towards
the things I really believe in."
Any shout-outs?
"I
wanted to thank Debbie Leung for dieting me for the next
show and sticking by me for the last 2 years to help me
along the way. I'd also like to thank Terry Miller who
has graciously taken me under his wing (quite a muscular
wing, I might add!) to work beside me in the gym and push
me harder than anyone has ever pushed me before. Last but
definitely not least, I would like to thank my boyfriend
Cory and my friends for being such wonderful motivators
and supporters throughout all of this and everything else
in my life. I couldn't do it without you and you all mean
the world to me."
Thanks Erin.
Maranda Lessard -
Photo supplied by Maranda
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Maranda was last seen on stage at
the 2004 Provincial Fitness show (at Northerns) in
her birthplace of Red Deer, Alberta. A very fiery
competitor, she placed fifth in the short class with
a great package. "I was pleased with the changes I
made with my physique and the way my routine came
together."
Maranda has been training hard
since last year, aiming at adding some upper body
size. "This year I found an awesome gymnastics
coach. After suffering a few injuries, it has been
12 years since I have trained in the sport. This
left me with a fear for tumbling which I'm slowly
overcoming." We can't wait to see her on stage!
When will that be? Maranda's scheduled to compete
at the 2005 Provincial competition (with Southerns
in Calgary). When asked what her goals are for this
show, Maranda said, "Most importantly I want to come
in better shape with a stronger routine, and of
course I want to place first in my class and take
the overall, but I would still be happy with top
three." |
And what about 'real' life? What does she do for fun? "I
love anything that's active. I love being on the go!
Home life is my husband and I hanging out with our two
cats and puppy, friends and family, watching movies and
traveling." That high-energy attitude must be the
reasoning for her pet peeve, 'slow drivers in the fast
lane'.
Is
there anyone you'd like to thank? "I would like to thank
you for the interview, David Ford for his exposure and
great contest pics. My husband, Pat, for his support and
constant motivation through my contest prep. There are
days that I don't want to train, and he keeps kicking my
butt in gear! And to all the supportive friends, family
and clients, thank you!"
Thanks Maranda!
Pat Lessard - Photo
supplied by Pat
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I just
love profiling couples – and what a GREAT couple
they are!! Pat Lessard (Maranda's husband) has
become a household name in Alberta over the last
year. Competing in 3 shows in 2004, Pat won the
Bantamweight Class and the Overalls at Northerns.
Editor's note: although wife Maranda was born in
Red Deer, Pat was born in Montreal. "Yes," says
Pat, "I'm a frog… Maranda says I turned into a
prince after I married her." A week after Northerns,
Pat took the Bantamweight Class at Provincials. And
that's not all! He went on to win the same class
again at Canadians nine weeks later. NINE WEEKS?
"It was a long road… 28 weeks of dieting with ONE
CHEAT DAY in the whole process, but it was all worth
it!" Kudos to you, Pat. I'd prefer 28 weeks of
cheating with one diet day, which explains my
current 'softness' factor.
Self-described as laid back, it doesn't seem that
anything gets under Pat's skin, which is pretty
admirable considering his workload. "Maranda and I
put in some pretty long work weeks (on top of both
our training schedules) so when the weekend comes,
it's a much welcomed opportunity to just relax and
hang out…. We really just enjoy each other's company
and re-charge for the following week. |
If
we're not at home, then we're probably out spending the
weekend at a B&B in Jasper, a hotel in Banff or traveling
to visit family or friends. We've also been bitten by the
travel bug. We've been to Cuba twice in as many years and
plan on going to Hawaii some time this winter."
Pat struck it big after his Canadians win. "I was
approached with a sponsorship opportunity from PVL
Nutrients (which of course I graciously accepted), so I've
been working on getting things together for their
website. I've also been putting a portfolio together and
brainstorming for my own website. I'm also getting a few
people ready for the upcoming shows in June." Does that
include you, Pat? "I'm taking this season off to try and
put on a little more muscle and work on a couple of body
parts that I feel are a little behind (even though Maranda
is trying to convince me to do the Nationals again in
September!). Ultimately, I would like to come back as a
Lightweight in 2006 and see if I can do some serious
damage at the Albertas and again at Canadians."
Pat finds inspiration in many sources. "My wife, my
family and my friends inspire me to do my best at being a
good husband, son, brother, and a loyal friend…. The
'smaller' pro bodybuilders like Lee Priest, (all-time
favorite) Dexter Jackson, Franco Columbo, Frank Zane, and
the 'smaller' local guys like Gary Dalton, Jimmy Mah, Tim
Connah and Ray Jewan are all guys that I consider to be
fierce competitors and fantastic examples for us little
guys to look up to!"
Finally, is there anyone you'd like to thank? "I want to
thank you for considering me for this interview. A huge
thanks goes out to David Ford for all his contest coverage
over the past year. I want to thank Cabel McElderry for
taking my physique to a place I previously thought was
unattainable (the guy is a genius), my two major sponsors,
BodyFit Fitness Center and PVL Nutrients for their
financial support, my family and friends for standing by
my side and my wife Maranda for pushing me to be the best
that I can be. Best of luck to everyone at the upcoming
shows this spring!"
Thanks, Pat!
