How did you get interested in bodybuilding/working out?

I started working out when I was a junior in high school just to get into better shape for cheerleading and I discovered competitive fitness when reading magazines to pass the time spent on the elliptical... I decided I wanted to go for it!

What was your first show like, any interesting experiences?

My first show was the 2003 NPC Jan Tana, and I woke up that morning looking soooo much smoother than I did going to bed the night before. Also, I got lost on the way to the venue the morning of the show. It taught me to get there early ALWAYS no matter what and to make sure you are 100% prepared going in.

What do you like and dislike about competing?

I love everything about it --- it's so demanding that if there was anything that dissatisfied me, I wouldn't do it.

What are your future goals in this industry?

I would love to obtain sponsorship and to turn professional.

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

I would like to think that there are opportunities I haven't even thought of that would be available to me by that time, so I would like to leave that up to fate and determination (in other words, I have no clue!).

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

Most people wouldn't know that I experienced a severe hip flexor strain while warming up my routine backstage at Nationals and still performed my entire routine. I thought, I came this far, I might as well go for it! While my performance was definitely not one of my best, I was proud that I was able to complete the whole thing.

Any additional notes? People you would like to thank?

I would like to thank my good friend and agent, Kenny Kassel. He is one of the most genuine people I have met within the industry and I would not have been able to compete at Nationals without his advice and support. I also want to thank my boyfriend, Ryan Chastain, for all of his help. I wouldn't be able to do what I do without him. Thanks to his advice I was able to come into nationals looking my best ever. And who else would put up with precontest low carb moodiness? He is the most patient, supportive, and sincere person I know. Of course I want to thank my parents. My mom always makes sure to keep eggs in the refrigerator and was able to fashion some cool fitness outfit accessories last-minute. She was by far the best "fitness mom" at the show this year. Jen Hendershott for choreographing my routine, giving me great advice, and for being the cool person she is! Also, I want to thank Angie Semsch and Terry Goodlad for great feedback and advice for future competitions.

Competition History:

-NPC Jan Tana 2003- 1st, tall class
-NPC Nationals 2004- 8th, tall class