to all the recent competitors . . .

[alfresco]

I was called away unexpectedly, literally at the last
minute, left town within an hour, so missing all the
updates, the excitement surrounding all of our
competitors over the last weekend as it was something
I was really looking forward to.

After seeing all the fotos, reading the reports
(thank you all), in my eyes, you all are all winners.

Anybody who does what you did, gets yourself in
contest condition, deserves huge a huge amount respect
and admiration, even if you yourself were not happy with
the results. You tried, gave it your all, and that is much
more than many of us will ever do, me included.

All conducted themselves professionally and stood
proudly on stage; many may feel they missed their all time
best, some feel they were robbed I'm sure, some jumped a
weight class, but all did the very best they could with what
they had, and that is what counts. Nothing to be ashamed of,
apologize for, or explain away, in my book. I'm the last person
on the face of this earth to criticize anybody who did what
you all have accomplished. You all make me proud to be a
member here.

Bodybuilding in my opinion, has got to be the most difficult
"competition" there is. So many variables, many of which
out of your direct control; an ever changing, ever evolving
landscape of flesh, bones, and spirit.

And talk about a subjective sport. . . it, "bodybuilding"
redefines the meaning of the term. And trust me when I
say, in my profession, my livelihood, it is all about subjectivity
so I truly feel your pain, as I experience rejection, subjective
opinions, on a almost daily basis.

So, thank you all for letting me participate, from the sidelines,
in a part of your world and I look forward to sharing in some
small way in all your future successes.

To all of you, be well.

alfresco

PS. No need to reply, just wanted to say . . .