How did you get interested in bodybuilding/working out?

Fell in love w/weight training during college in the 80's, but discovered a talent/passion for figure competing just this past year.

How was your first show like, any interesting experiences?

First show was GREAT - had so much fun and placed extremely well for a beginner - my inner performer really shown through!

What do you like and dislike about competing?

Like - the actual stage time and being around all the energy of the other competitors - a true culmination of hard work & dedication. Knowing all those other women worked just as hard as you to get there is truly motivating. Dislike - the hours of cardio the week before!

What are your future goals in this industry?

Turn pro and use my pro status to help bring my concept of fitness as the key to positive life balance to people (especially women) outside the industry who are looking to lead a healthier lifestyle.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

Personal fitness training, of course, and/or possibly managing the fitness dept. of the health club in my hometown in rural Northern California; I would also love to write for fitness mags for women - Oxygen or Shape or Muscle & Fitness Hers.

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

I grew up on a mountain in Northern California with no electricity, television or telephone for the first 15 years of my life and it was the best experience a young person could ever have - to rely on your own imagination and resources keeps the mind sharp and the heart humble.

Any additional notes? People you would like to thank?

I think it's important for people to know - especially women - that being physically fit can make every other aspect of your life better. As a 38-year-old wife and working mother of two, the challenges of career and family have threatened to consume me more that once, and if it wasn't for the balance of fitness and a healthy lifestyle, I would be miserable. I know I'm not the only one to experience this, and I can only encourage each and every person to make fitness a top priority. I would like to thank my family, for their loving, loyal support; Brittany Thorsch, pro fitness competitor, show consultant, friend and sister-in-arms, for honesty and wisdom beyond her years; and, last but DEFINITELY not least, my trainer Tony Dodd, who puts not just his years of expertise and experience into my program but has dedicated his heart and soul to helping bring out the champion spirit in me.

Competition History:

-2004 NPC Naturals Bodybuilding & Figure Competition: 2nd place, Short Class, Masters Figure 35+; 2nd place, Medium-Tall Class, Unlimited Figure.
-2004 Tournament of Champions: 1st place, Short Class, Masters Figure 35+; Overall Winner, Masters Figure; 1st place, Medium-Tall Class, Unlimited Figure; Overall Winner, Unlimited Figure.
-2004 Border States Classic XXVI Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Competition: 2nd place, Short Class, Masters Figure 35+; 2nd place, Medium-Tall Class, Unlimited Figure.
-2004 Excalibur Bodybuilding & Figure Competition: 1st Place, Short Class, Master Figure 35+; 4th Place, Medium-Tall Class, Unlimited Figure.