How did you get interested in bodybuilding/working out?

Born in: Lohja, Finland Heights: 168cm I started working out 10 years ago and by going to the gym I spotted the first fitness- and bodybuilding magazines that had competition coverage. I went to see the first fitness competition in 1996 and I was totally hooked. Back then, there were no figure competitions and since fitness was the only category I didn't even dare to dream about competing. In 2000 I decided to start training for competition. My first goal was to compete in figure in 2002.

How was your first show like, any interesting experiences?

My first competition was in 2002 and I took first place in my class. The competition was a terrific experience and made it clear to me that figure really was my sport. However, the most memorable competition for me was the qualification contest before the Finnish Nationals in 2002. The qualifications were held in a night club. The stage was tiny, the lights were made for a night club, and there we were in our two-piece suits doing our quarter turns. Quite an extraordinary first competition but that night I won my first competition.

What do you like and dislike about competing?

I like the sport for its versatility. I am definitely an individual sport athlete and that's one of the reasons this sport is a perfect choice for me. Training and the overall health and development the sport provides motivates me to keep going. It's not all about the physical development, but also mental and learning more about yourself. What I like the least is the hunger and exhaustion towards the end of the competition diet. Sometimes they affect my mood too, but after all it's more about the attitude than anything else. Competing is also quite expensive since the suits and all the preparing costs a lot.

What are your future goals in this industry?

There's still a lot to develop in my physique, especially the muscle mass. My next competition will be the Finnish Nationals in 2006. I plan my competing schedule only one contest at the time. I believe I will keep competing for years: there's still a lot to gain in this sport, as long as I keep working hard and humbly.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

I hope I will be healthy and will be able to train hard. My dream would be having my own enterprise.

Please tell us something special about you that most people wouldn't know?

I'm an open and social person and I have lots of acquaintances. When it comes to true friends, I only have few. They know me inside out and I will always be loyal to them. I'm also a true animal lover! I have always had pets. The most important and loved of them all is my miniature pinscher Ramon.

Any additional notes? People you would like to thank?

I would like to thank my fianc' Juha, who always encourages me to work consistently and supports me whether I'm on a diet or just training hard. I also want to thank my sister and my best friend Satu. And of course, big thanks to my sponsor, MLO Finland 'http:''www.mlo.fi'' who provides me with excellent ABB supplements! A Finnish bodybuilder, Juhani Hokkanen has deserved a big thank you for all the advice and support!

Competition History:
-2002 Body fitness novices, 1st place
-2003 Body Fitness Finnish Championships, 2nd place
-2004 Body Finess Finnish Championships, 2nd place
-2005 Fitness Classic, Body Fitness open class, 1st place
-2005 Body Fitness Scandinavian Championships, 2nd place