Post 2009 IFBB Olympia thoughts …

I attended the 2009 IFBB Olympia Weekend Festivities this past weekend.  This year was extra special in a sense that it marked my return to “The Big O” after a two year absence.  When I walked away two years ago from competitive bodybuilding, I had no idea how much I would miss attending arguably bodybuilding’s biggest weekend.  Honestly, I just did not know what to expect.

To my surprise, I still had many fans out there who were delighted to see me there.  Ironically, it was while watching the “202 Showdown” that the first few fans caught a glimpse of me … LOL.  I spent most of my time at the Magnum Nutraceuticals booth greeting fans and sharing product information with them.  I am not a huge fan of the UFC or MMA, but we had Ryan “Darth” Bader at the booth along with several fitness stars.  All in all, I had a great time getting back in the swing of things at the expo.

On a side note, my reason for attending “The O” this year was to see if it would awaken the dormant bodybuilding beast in me.  I have been straddling the fence for quite some time now due to a lack of purpose.  It so weird to miss something and not know why.  I know that it would take a lot on my part to convince the IFBB board that another outburst will not happen again, but I am willing do whatever it takes to reinstate myself so long as I could be 110% committed to the return.  As good as the 202-Class competitors looked on stage, I know for a fact that with proper dedication and determination I would be a force to be reckoned with.  Admittedly, I have not felt a strong sense of purpose or urgency since my very first diet as an IFBB Pro way back at the end of 2005, beginning of 2006.  Now that I fully understand how important it is to maintain my composure at all times, I can go back to just enjoying the competitive aspect. No more worrying about placings, I just want to compete!

Again, many thanks to those of you who stopped by and talk and take photos.  Perhaps we will do it again soon … except next time will be with me competing at an IFBB show.  If you did not attend this year’s event, please try to make the 2010 Arnold Classic.  I am planning on taking Laura and my son to the Arnold Classic to enjoy the festivities.  Hope you all can make it!