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!