What was your first show like, any interesting experiences?

My first show was the 2004 Vancouver Natural Classic and it was a total blast. Everything was new to me and that made it extra exciting. Since we had to drive almost 3 hours to get there I stayed in a hotel. I had my first experience with pro tan and ended up with the bottoms of my feet totally orange! The main thing about the first show is just how much fun I had. I think its important to keep that in mind when Im training and to keep having fun. If its not fun its not worth doing.

What do you like and dislike about competing?

The thing that I love most about fitness is the constant challenge. Although I sometimes get frustrated and want to throw in the towel I know that I cant because I love training too much. Gymnastics is a great example of something that I like and dislike at the same time. It is extremely mental and sometimes I let fear get the better of me. When I do learn a new skill or perfect and old one it is so rewarding.
One of the things that I found is a sacrifice is the freedom to go out with friends and family. Sometimes I feel like all I do is cook chicken and prepare my food. Overall I think that fitness is a great way to showcase all of the hard work that everyone puts in at the gym and I really do love it.

What are your future goals in this industry?

I am currently preparing for national level competition. I would love to get my pro card and also do fitness modeling. Im working on getting my physique to the national level and working my butt off at gymnastics to fine tune my routine.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

Well I have two routes that I may travel (the first one is my top choice). The first is to be a sponsored fitness athlete and work as a personal trainer. The second is to apply my Masters Degree and work as an environmental consultant or soil scientist. Only time will tell

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

Since I was in the fourth grade I was a total band geek! I actually became quite good and really enjoyed all the friends I have met through the years. I played the flute and piccolo and was in the Husky Marching Band for 3 years at the University of Washington. Definitely worth it for 50-yard line seats at every home game and all expense paid trips to away games, most notably the Rose Bowl!

Any additional notes? People you would like to thank?

I would like to thank my parents for putting up with my emotional ups and downs getting ready for contests. I couldnt have done all of this without their support and encouragement. I want to thank all of my friends for coming to cheer me on at shows, helping me out at gymnastics and just being great supporters. An additional thanks to everyone that Ive met and worked with in the fitness industry.

Competition History:

-2004 NPC Washington State Championships 1st Place Figure Tall Class
-2004 NPC Washington Ironman Championships 3rd Place Figure 54 to 56
-2004 NPC Empire Classic Championships 2nd Place Fitness
-2004 NPC Emerald Cup Fitness & Figure Championships 6th Place Fitness Tall Class, 8th Place Figure 54 to 55
-2004 NPC Vancouver Natural Classic 4th Place Fitness
-2005 Emerald Cup Fitness 8th place / Figure 12th palce