News from IFBB! - IFBB ELITE CIRCUIT to be launced!

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Latest on IFBB newsletter // reminder of upcoming weekend with 3 shows around the Europe;

THREE (contests) IN ONE (weekend) plus OLYMPIA by Andrew Michalak

The last weekend of September (28th–30th) will be a very meaningful one in the IFBB activity.

In professional bodybuilding, the most prestigious contest will be held in Las Vegas, USA: The Olympia Weekend.

In amateur bodybuilding, Europe will explode with three big international competitions:

- Norway Open in Trondheim

- International Women’s Cup “Riga Pearl 2012” in Riga, Latvia

- International Austria Cup in Vienna

Olympia Weekend main question is if Phil Heath will defend his Mr. Olympia title won last year against attacking top challengers: Kai Greene, Dennis Wolf, Dexter Jackson, Branch Warren and others? Altogether, 24 world top pro bodybuilders qualified to this contest this year but two top players: Jay Cutler and Victor Martinez withdrew due to the injury. According to bodybuilding.com also Cedric McMillan, Jon Delarosa and Juan Morel will not participate and Balto Abbaspour may not be competing either.

More info on the Olympia Weekend at: http://www.ifbbpro.com/ and http://www.bodybuild...d-coverage.html. As usual, bodybuilding.com will provide a live, free webcast.

Day by day, we will present short information on our three amateur events. This time we present :

NORWAY OPEN

Date: Saturday, September 29th, 2012

City: Trondheim, Norway

Venue: Olavshallen, Kj?pmannsgt. 44, 7011 Trondheim

More info at: http://norwayopen.no/informasjon.html

This contest organized by the Norwegian Federation (NKF) offers a substantial prize money of 120 000 NOK (over 16 000 EUR), the biggest in the Norwegian bodybuilding history.

Distribution of prizes:

Women's Fitness overall, Men's Fitness overall, Women's Athletic Fitness overall, Men's Athletic Fitness overall, Women's Bikini Fitness overall, Women's Classic Bodybuilding overall, Women's Bodybuilding overall – 5000 NOK (673 EUR) for winners of each overall title.

Men's Classic Bodybuilding overall winner NOK 15.000 (2.020 EUR)

Women's Bodyfitness overall winner NOK 20.000 (2.693 EUR)

Men's Bodybuilding overall winner NOK 50.000 (6.730 EUR)

Categories:

- Women’s Fitness open

- Men’s Fitness open

- Women's Athletic Fitness: 163 cm, over 163 cm

- Men's Athletic Fitness: 175 cm, over 175 cm

- Women's Bikini Fitness: 163 cm, over 163 cm

- Women's Bodyftness Newcomers open

- Women's Bodyfitness: 163 cm, over 163 cm

- Women's Classic Bodybuilding open

- Men's Classic Bodybuilding: 180 cm, over 180 cm

- Women's Bodybuilding open

- Men’s Bodybuilding: 80 kg, 90 kg, 100 kg i +100 kg.

All participating athletes must be members of the IFBB affiliated National Federations and should be nominated by their respective National Federation. There is a participating fee of 70 EUR per competitor.

Registration (weigh-in): Friday, September 28th, hours: 18:00 - 20:00, in Kaliber Gym, Vestre Rosten 71, Trondheim.

Contest schedule (Saturday, Oct. 29th, 2012):

Elimination: 09:00

Semifinals: 10:00

Finals: 16:00

As for September 20th, 184 athletes have been nominated to this event! Among them we can see IFBB international stars:

- Christian Egner (Norway) – the first European Athletic Fitness overall champion

- Rookie Westin (Sweden) – European Championships Athletic Fitness bronze medal winner (175 cm category)

- Thomas Hjelde Thoresen (Norway) - European Championships Athletic Fitness finalist

- Kristina Dybdahl (Denmark) – winner of many Nordic contests, including latest edition of the Oslo Grand Prix and Loaded Cup (Classic Bodybuilding overall) but this time we will see Kristina in… Bodybuilding.

- Oksana Orobets (Ukraine) – two-time world junior fitness champion and 2012 European Championships bronze medal winner.

- Adam Adamski (Poland) – finalist of the World and European Bodybuilding Championships, Cup of Poland winner.

- Peter Lagermand (Denmark) – Arnold Amateur Championships bronze medal winner.

Pictures:

2012 European athletic fitness overall champion Christian Egner (Norway).

2012 Loaded Cup classic bodybuilding overall winner: Kristina Dybdahl (Denmark).

2012 European Championships women’s fitness bronze medal winner: Oksana Orobets (Ukraine).

Adam Adamski 10 days before Norwegian Open.

Previous edition (2010) of Norway Open bodybuilding overall winner: Ayad Kadem Musa.

2010 Norway Open women’s athletic fitness winner, nobody else but the current European champion Helena Forsén (Sweden).

Wonderful audience of the Store Sal.

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CARLOS BLOMMAERT Carlos, the oldest of the Blommaert brothers, (Carlos / Julien / Jacques) and a great pioneer of our sport in Belgium and in Europe, passed away recently.

Carlos was the founder of the Belgium Bodybuilding Federation and a fine athlete himself.

His brother Jacques passed away during the late 80’s, being for many years the Chairman of the IFBB Judges Committee, and Julien remains active as the President of the Belgium Bodybuilding Federation.

IFBB wishes to convey his deepest condolence to his brother Julien and the Blommaert family.

He will remain forever in our memory

TELJU SPONSORSHIP AT IFBB ATHLETIC FITNESS The prestigious Spanish manufacturer Telju, producer of some of the finest, state of the art gym equipment, is producing the dip and chins official units for the athletic fitness event at Arnold Classic Europe.

In the picture we can see Juan José Serrano Junior with President Santonja.

You can find more information on Telju at : http://www.teljufitness.com/

Women's upcoming world championships are also in the focus of the latest IFBB newsletter - read the text and see all the photos HERE

WOMEN'S WORLDS IN POLAND: FIRST STARS ARE KNOWN!

by Andrew Michalak

Most of countries will run their qualification contests to the 2012 World Women’s Championships in the upcoming weekend but those countries which need visas to enter the European Union have already revealed the names of their stars. And this is a really interesting lecture as those countries are the women’s physique sports superpowers!

Russia entered two world bodyfitness champions: Ekaterina Gamagina and Elina Gook. While Gook just finished her full of successes junior career and starts to compete in women’s division, Gamagina has already won all top IFBB awards except only one: bodyfitness overall title. And she is coming to Bialystok to grasp this one! Good luck!

She will not have an easy way. First, in her height category she will meet 2009 world champion Katarzyna Kozakiewicz (Poland), Europeans runner-up Eva Rusan (Croatia), her Russian team-mate and serious challenger: Aminat Tuleubaeva.

If passing to the overall, she may face two-time world champion Zrinka Fišer (Croatia), if Zrinka would beat two-time IFBB World Cup winner Anna Szczotka (Poland), coming back to the stage Russian star Nelly Tsyshkevich, former world bodybuilding champion Alina Cepurnienie (Lithuania) and new Ukrainian star Yuliya Horyachun. But there will be no two very demanding opponents in this class: 2010 world champion Olga Muntian (Ukraine) and 2011 bronze medal winner Kati Alander (turned pro).

In the bodyfitness +168 cm category Belarus entered European Championships runner-up Anastasia Gurina, who will compete against bronze medal winner Olga Karavayeva (Ukraine). No former world champions: Yulia Ushakova and Yulia Zabelina (both of Russia), Evgeniya Prutskova (Ukraine) and Nina Furseth (Norway). Who will be the next world champion? Rare opportunity for younger stars!

Fantastic sport quality could be expected in men’s fitness. Estonia nominated 2011 world champion Oleg Anissimov. He will meet 2010 European champion Konstantin Nekrasov (Russia), who returns after the Achilles tendon injury at the 2010 Words in Mexico, two incredible Ukrainians: Fedir Khasalov and Nazar Kharkhun as well as European Championships bronze medal winner Mariusz Lewandowski (Poland). Fitness routines of these athletes are amazing!

In women’s fitness three top stars will not participate: Alevtyna Titarenko (Ukraina), Natalia Nazarenko-Kiivikas (Estonia) and Tatiana Dvortsova (Russia), so the others will have a good opportunity to fight for the top trophies: former world champion Natalia Chukaeva (Russia), former world junior champion Oksana Orobets (Ukraina), Asian champion Tatiana Volkova (Kazakhstan) and Marta Aquiar (Uruguay) who just won her next South American title.

In women’s bodybuilding we will see the biggest IFBB amateur star, Slovak bodybuilder Jana Purdjakova, who won the overall title at the latest two World Championships having altogether eight world titles and being tied in this area with the famous Egyptian bodybuilder El-Shahat Mabrouk. But Mabrouk has already finished his competitive bodybuilding while Purdjakova will come to Bialystok to grasp the ninth gold medal and take the position of the most successful amateur bodybuilder in the IFBB history.

Ukraine enters 2012 European champion Maryna Alf and Russia – 2010 European overall winner Natalia Vtyurina. Plus 1999 world overall winner Ewa Sedkowska (Krynska) of Poland. This will be a very excited meet.

These are the names of the first stars coming to the 2012 World Women’s Championships. The rest of the names will be known on Monday, September 24th, the deadline for sending the Final Entry Forms.

Pictures:

by eastlabs.biz

Eight-time world bodybuilding champion Jana Purdjakova (Slovakia)........

[Ott Kiivikas 817]

See Adam ´Adamski oli ka varem minu kategooria mees, nüüd pildi järgi on küll vist +100 kategooria.....kasvavad poisid nagu pärmi peal.

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ON THE BEAUTIFUL BLUE DANUBE...

(An der schönen blauen Donau)

by Andrew Michalak

The upcoming weekend will be full of international events in Europe. North European countries will meet at the Norway Open contest in Trondheim (see separate news), East European countries will meet at the “Riga Pearl” fitness show in Latvia and… Central Europe athletes will meet at the International Austria Cup in Vienna.

This Cup and the Austrian Newcomers Championships will be held at the

Haus der Begegnung, Angererstraße 14, 1210 Vienna.

More info at: www.ifbb-austria.at

Categories:

- Juniors Classic Bodybuilding: open

- Juniors Men Bodybuilding: open

- Masters Men Classic Bodybuilding: open

- Masters Men Bodybuilding: open

- Bikini Fitness: open

- Women Bodyfitness: open

- Women Bodybuilding: open

- Mixed Pairs

- Men Classic Bodybuilding: 175 cm, +175 cm

- Men Bodybuilding: 85 kg, 95 kg, +95 kg

Convenient location in the middle of Europe attracted over 70 athletes from nearly 10 countries: Belarus, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Switzerland and the host country – Austria. Among them we can see the top IFBB international stars:

Zrinka Fiser (Croatia) – two-time world bodyfitness champion and the current European overall winner.

Tanja Canc (Slovenia) – current European bikini fitness champion.

Kurt Strohmayer (Austria) – runner- up at the 2010 European Masters Classic Bodybuilding Championships.

Petra Redl (Austria) – winner of the bikini fitness class at the Int. South German Championships.

Andreas Ehrschwendtner (Austria) - Mr. Universe in the other organization (masters 40-49 years old, over 90 kg).

The schedule:

- Registration (weigh-in): 10:00 – 12:00 in the venue

- Prejudging: 12:00 (noon)

- Finals: 17:00 (5:00 pm)

Tickets:

- Prejudging: 15 EUR

- Prejudging and finals: 35 EUR

Austrian Federation President Dr. Wolfgang Schober – “Looking forward to welcome you all in the City of Waltz right in the heart of Europe.”

Having the opportunity to see so attractive, beautiful women’s bodies and

granite-hard men’s muscular bodies don’t decline this invitation! Why not join them?

Pictures:

World bodyfitness champion Zrinka Fiser (Croatia).

European bikini fitness champion Tanja Canc (Slovenia).

European classic bodybuilding runner-up Kurt Strohmayer (Austria)

.

Top Austrian bikini fitness star Petra Redl (Austria).

New IFBB-Austria bodybuilding star Andreas Ehrschwendtner.

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NEW PRESIDENT SOUTH AFRICAN FEDERATION

After many years of dedicated and loyal service, Gavin Conlon has stepped down from the Presidency of the South African Federation and Wayne Price has been elected to assume the role. Wayne is a dedicated official with many years’ experience and we wish him every success in his new responsibility, as well as extend our gratitude to Gavin who will be honored at the Men’s World Championship and IFBB Congress next month in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

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2012 AUSTRIA CUP: FULL HOUSE AND THE TOP STARS

by Andrew Michalak

Austrian Federation President Dr. Wolfgang Schober can be happy: the frenetic crowd of 500 fans filled the venue of this year’s International Austria Cup held on

September 29th in Vienna. Altogether, 70 athletes from eight nations - Belarus, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland and Austria battled for the medals. Tomas Kaspar from the Czech Republic made the overall title in bodybuilding. Kurt Strohmayer kept the classic bodybuilding overall title in Austria.

For ladies it was an important test of their body condition just a week before the upcoming Women’s Worlds in Poland. And they can be satisfied. Zrinka Fiser from Croatia was a clear numero uno in bodyfitness. And Slovenia’s Tanja Canc celebrated a fantastic victory in the bikini fitness tall class final. But there were more top girls placed just behind the winners. Look at the pictures below and you can find tons of photos at:

http://www.ifbb-austria.at/index.php/fotogalerie-der-oeabff-ifbb-austria/sterreichische-neulingsmeisterschaft-2012.html

Pictures:

Classic bodybuilding overall winner Kurt Strohmayer congratulated by the Austrian Federation top officials: President Dr. Wolfgang Schober (right) and Vice-President Jörg Kapfer (left).

Three Czech bodybuilders dominated the super heavyweight category (from L): Jaroslav Paseka (2nd place), Tomas Kaspar (1st place), Pavel Fabok (3rd place).

Two-time world champion Zrinka Fiser (Croatia) clearly won the bodyfitness class and proved that she is going to Bialystok for the third title.

2012 European bikini champion Tanja Canc (Slovenia) is on her way to grasp her first world bikini fitness title.

Croatian bikini fitness champion Maja Pavlokovic placed 3rd in Vienna and will also be a top player at the Women’s Worlds in Poland.

Petra Redl confirmed her predispositions and will represent Austria in bikini fitness tall class at the Worlds in Poland.

Katharina Lankova will do the same but in bodyfitness tall class.

Some of the judges was not less charming than stars on the stage:

Dr. Caroline Bovelet-Schober.

There were no empty seats at the audience. The house was full!

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IFBB newsletter reviews the last weekend's shows;

IFBB WEEKEND AFTER WEEKEND…

by Andrew Michalak

2012 World Women’s Championships in Bialystok, Poland, held on October 5-7, 2012, opened a long series of the IFBB international contests. Next weekend was devoted to the greatest event in the IFBB history, 2012 Arnold Classic Europe. And in the third weekend, October 20-21, 2012, there were several big IFBB contests in Europe plus African Championships in Egypt. And this series will be continued, weekend after weekend, till the middle of December, when the 2012 IFBB Juniors and Masters will be held in Budapest, Hungary. Impressive activity!

2012 GRAND PRIX PEPA

Held in Opava, Czech Republic, attracted competitors from 7 European countries. The strongest teams came from Lithuania, Poland, Croatia and the host country. The winners:

- Men’s bodybuilding 80 kg: Karol Malecki (Poland)

- Men’s bodybuilding 90 kg: Jakub Potocki (Poland)

- Men’s bodybuilding +90 kg: Andrzej Kolodziejczyk (Poland)

- Men’s classic bodybuilding: Drazen Vrbancic (Croatia)

- Men’s masters bodybuilding: Arvydas Mickus (Lithuania)

They all met in the overall category, fighting for the top trophy and Papa gold ring, which went to the 2011 IFBB Men’s Worlds super heavyweight runner-up Andrzej Kolodziejczyk.

- Bikini fitness open category: Kristina Karaliute-Stoliaroviene (Llithuania)

- Bodyfitness 163 cm: Renata Marcinkute (Lithuania)

- Bodyfitness over 163 cm: Vanja Sajko (Croatia)

They all met in the open category won by the 2012 Arnold Classic Europe 3^rd place winner Renata Marcinkute (Lithuania).

Moreover, children fitness categories were also run, with many top world competitors. This time World Championships runner-up Tatiana Kozuchova (Slovakia) got the best scores.

MOZOLANI CLASSIC 2

The second edition of Mozolani Classic was held in Zilina. It was a qualifier to the Slovak National Team for the Men’s Worlds in Ecuador, so few world champions took part but the main attraction was a battle of the recent Arnold Classic Europe super heavyweight winner Alexey Lesukov (Russia) against the Slovak world super heavyweight champion from Mumbai, Rastislav Solar. This spectacular, very close duel widely covered by the media brought victory to Solar, who showed top condition and muscle quality.

- Men’s bodybuilding 80 kg: Igor Kocis

- Men’s bodybuilding 90 kg: Marian Cambal

- Men’s bodybuilding +90 kg: Rastislav Solar

- Men’s classic bodybuilding: Tomas Tabaciar

- Bikini fitness up to 165 cm: Karina Antovska

- Bikini fitness over 165 cm: Jana Majernikova

Slovak National Team for the Men’s Worlds in Ecuador: Igor Kocis (70 kg), Peter Kokoska (75 kg), Juraj Vrabel (85 kg), Marian Cambal (90 kg), Rastislav Solar (+100 kg).

UKBFF BRITISH CHAMPIONSHIPS

Over 250 competitors participated in this big event held at the Sportex Festival, Event City in Manchester's Trafford Centre. And the participation was limited to the top six from the regional qualifying contests. UKBFF President William Tierney may be proud of this spectacular success and the sport quality of the top British bodybuilders as well as women taking part in all women’s physique sports. Men’s bodybuilding overall title went to Anthony Bailes . And congratulation to women’s bodybuilding overall winner Rosanna Harte. IFBB expert and our photographer Igor Kopek said – “She performed the best routine I have ever seen in women’s bodybuilding"! And he saw a lot.

CUP OF POLAND

Run in the open categories only, attracted the best Polish physique sports competitors, among them many continental and world championships medal winners. It was also a qualifier to the Polish National Team for the Men’s Worlds and Classic Bodybuilding Worlds. In men’s bodybuilding open category two super heavyweight giants: 6^th competitor of the latest Arnold Classic Europe Marek Olejniczak and 2011 Men’s Worlds runner-up Andrzej Kolodziejczyk were separated by the Arnold Classic Europe 75 kg class winner Karol Malecki. There was one real sensation: new athlete in the line-up, Tomasz Kornalewski, won the classic bodybuilding open category over top European stars: two-time continental runner-up Robert Majewski and 2011 European champion Przemyslaw Zokowski. A new star was born? Anyway, very gifted athlete with tremendous potentials.

Men’s bodybuilding open: Marek Olejniczak

Men’s classic bodybuilding open: Tomasz Kornalewski

Women’s bodybuilding open: Agnieszka Witasek

Bikini fitness open: Paula Lewczuk

Bodyfitness open: Anna Szczotka

Women’s fitness open: Justyna Jedlikowska

Men’s fitness open: Mariusz Lewandowski

Wheelchair bodybuilding: Michał Kilian

Polish National Team for the Men’s Worlds in Ecuador: Karol Malecki (75 kg), Tomasz Lech (100 kg), Marek Olejniczak (+100 kg), Andrzej Kolodziejczyk (+100 kg).

MOSCOW OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

There was an extremely spectacular combat in the men’s super heavyweight category between two-time European champion and 2012 Arnold Classic Europe 4^th place winner Mikhail Sidorychev and 2^nd place winner at this year’s Cup of Russia Alexey Tronov. Finally, Tronov appeared the winner and then took the overall title.

Other winners: Sergey Simonov (85 kg), Arkadiy Kartashov (100 kg), Liudmila Tuboltseva (women’s bodybuilding overall), Elena Kirshchina (bodyfitness overall).

URAL OPEN CHAMPIONSHIPS

Men’s bodybuilding overall title went to the 128 kg giant Sergey Kozin from Sverdlovsk, who was in a perfect shape! Sergey is 191 cm tall, has 60.5 cm biceps and is called by Russian media “the heaviest Russian bodybuilder in the IFBB”. Few years ago he took part in one or two EBFF Elite Tour hows but was not so big at that time. Then he was a runner-up at the 2009 Eastern European Championships. But it seems his best years are to come.

Women’s bodyfitness overall title went to Ekaterina Merling from Omsk. In bikini open class the line-up was formed with 26 athletes! Bikini fitness category has become so popular at the geographical border of Europe and Asia! Gold medal went to Olga Guskova from Yekaterinburg.

In photos..

PEPA Grand Prix: men’s over 90 kg top three (from L): Antonio FURIC (2^nd place), Andrzej KOLODZIEJCZYK (1^st place), Arvydas MICKUS (3^rd place).

Mozolani Classic: Alexey Lesukov vs. Rastislav Solar (right).

Mozolani Classic : Igor Kocis vs. Marian Cambal (right).

British Championships bodybuilding overall winner Anthony Bailes.

British Championships: the quality of bodybuilders was very high: Anthony Bailes and Ricardo Correia (right).

Cup of Poland.

Moscow Open: super heavyweight battle: Alexey Tronov vs. Mikhail Sidorychev.

Moscow Open: bodybuilding overall category winners (from L): Arkadiy Kartashov (2^nd place), Alexey Tronov (1^st place), Sergey Simonov (3^rd place)..

Moscow Open: the overall winners: Elena Kirshchina (bodyfitness) and Alexey Tronov (bodybuilding).

Ural Open Championships overall winners (from L): Olga Guskova (bodyfitness), Sergey Kozin bodybuilding) and Ekaterina Merling (bodyfitness).

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In the IFBB news today // preview of the upcoming Champions Cup

UPCOMING WEEKEND IN MOSCOW: THE CHAMPIONS CUP

by Andrew Michalak

There will be no IFBB world or continental championships on the upcoming weekend, November 3rd-4th, 2012, but several other top interesting events. Among them:

THE CHAMPIONS CUP – MOSCOW, NOVEMBER 3rd, 2012

An international event similar to the previous Elite Tour shows. Promoted by the Moscow Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation and Moscow Sambo Federation, supported by the Moscow City Authorities.

An invitational event for top continental bodybuilders (men and women) as well as bodyfitness athletes. Huge total price money of over EUR 36 000 ! Price money for all participating athletes. No one will leave Moscow without any award! Special guest: Dorian Yates. The list of invited athletes includes mostly IFBB world and continental champions as well as the latest Arnold Europe top athletes:

Men’s Bodybuilding:

1. Vitalijs Alexandrovs (Latvia) – 2012 Arnold Europe 2nd place winner (+100 kg)

2. Vladimir Ashcheulov (Russia) – 2011 European Championships 3rd place winner (100 kg)

3. Vitaliy Fateev (Russia) – 2011 Russian Nationals 2nd place winner (+100 kg)

4. Alexander Kodzoev (Russia) - 2012 Arnold Europe overall winner

5. Alexander Kolyasnikov (Russia) – 2012 European champion (85 kg)

6. Vojtech Koritensky (Czech Republic) – 2012 Arnold Europe winner (85 kg)

7. Andrey Kukharchuk (Ukraine) – 2009 European champion

8. Alexey Lesukov (Russia) – 2012 Arnold Europe winner (+100 kg)

9. Andrey Makeev (Russia) – 2012 Moscow Province Championships winner (+100 kg)

10. Marek Olejniczak (Poland) – 2012 Cup of Poland winner, Arnold Europe finalist

11. Maxim Samoylo (Russia) – 2011 Cup of Russia 2nd place winner (+100 kg)

12. Mikhail Sidorychev (Russia) – 2011 and 2012 European champion (+100 kg)

13. Andrey Skoromnykh (Russia) – 2011 Eastern European junior champion (+75 kg)

14. Andrey Sorokin (Russia) – 2010 Arnold America & 2011 Arnold Europe champion (100 kg)

15. Alexey Tronov (Russia) – 2012 Eastern European Cup 2nd place winner (+100 kg)

Women’s Bodybuilding:

1. Maryna Alf (Ukraine) – 2012 European champion (+55 kg)

2. Olga Belyakova (Russia) – 2011 Moscow champion

3. Katerina Kyptova (Czech Rep.) – 2011 and 2012 Arnold Europe 2nd place winner

4. Natalia Romashko (Ukraine) – 2010 European Championships finalist

5. Lyudmila Tubotseva (Russia) – 2012 European champion (55 kg + overall)

6. Natalaia Vtyurina (Russia) – 2010 European champion (+55 kg + overall)

Women’s Bodyfitness:

1. Anastasia Gurina (Belarus) – 2012 World champion (+168 cm)

2. Elena Kirshchina (Russia) – 2012 Moscow champion

3. Olga Karavayeva (Ukraine) – 2012 World Championships 3rd place winner

4. Ekaterina Gamagina (Russia) – 2012 World champion (168 cm + overall)

5. Lyudmila Nikitina (Russia) – 2012 Eastern European Cup winner (168 cm)

6. Yaroslava Nikolaeva (Russia) – 2012 Eastern European Cup 2nd place winner (163 cm)

The show will take place at the Gorbunov’s Center of Culture, 27 Novozavodskaya Str. Beginning at 16:00 (4:00 pm) in the lobby, where fans will be able to have a photo with a favorite champion. Competition will start at 17:00 (5:00 pm). Tickets: from 15 to 25 Euro can be purchased at the venue or via http://www.concert.ru/Details.aspx?ActionID=32229 Limited number of tickets: 470.

Pictures:

Stars coming to Moscow:

by www.eastlabs.biz

Bodyfitness (from L): Anastasia Gurina, Ekaterina Gamagina.

Bodyfitness (from L): Anastasia Gurina, Olga Karavayeva.

Bodybuilding: Katerina Kyptova.

Bodybuilding: Maryna Alf.

Natalia Vtyurina.

Bodybuilding (from L): Alexey Lesukov, Vitalijs Aleksandrovs.

Bodybuilding (from L): Mikhail Sidorychev, Marek Olejniczak.

Bodybuilding: Alexander Kodzoev.

Bodybuilding: Vojtech Koritensky.

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Also some other shows in Russia / Ukraine today, a lil review in IFBB news

http://www.ifbb.com/newsletter/detail.php?id=10443&date=2012-11-01&language=english&prov=index

THE NEXT TOP SPORT MEETINGS THIS WEEKEND:

ST. PETERSBURG AND DNEPROPETROVSK

by Andrew Michalak

GRAND PRIX FITNESS HOUSE – ST. PETERSBURG, RUSSIA

Next day after the Champions Cup in Moscow, on November 4th, 2012, top athletes will go to the Russian “city of three revolutions” St. Petersburg to participate in the Grand Prix Fitness House. This is the next contests with big price money (over EUR 11 000 in total). Bodybuilding and bikini rounds will be separated by dance group performances and pole dance performances. Special guests: Russian pro bodybuilder Sergey Shelestov, former champion and famous bodybuilding trainer Alexander Vishnevskiy and Mikhail Malyutin.

The set of invited athletes is almost the same like in Moscow but limited to eight in men’s bodybuilding and eight in bikini fitness. The list of invited athletes:

Bodybuilding:

1. Vitalijs Alexandrovs (Latvia) – 2012 Arnold Europe 2nd place winner (+100 kg)

2. Vitaliy Fateev (Russia) – 2011 Russian Nationals 2nd place winner (+100 kg)

3. Igor Gostiunin (Russia) – former world top classic bodybuilder

4. Alexander Kodzoev (Russia) - 2012 Arnold Europe overall winner

5. Andrey Leonov (Russia) – 2012 Cup of Russia winner (+100 kg)

6. Alexey Lesukov (Russia) – 2012 Arnold Europe winner (+100 kg)

7. Mikhail Sidorychev (Russia) – 2011 and 2012 European champion (+100 kg)

8. Andrey Skoromniy (Russia) – 2011 Eastern European junior champion (+75 kg)

The venue: concert place “Gigant-Hall”. Beginning: 16:00 (4:00 pm).

DNIEPER RIVER CUP – DNEPROPETROVSK, UKRAINE

The contest will be held in Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine. Total price money: EUR 2500. The list of invited athletes:

1. Andriy Sharapov – 2012 Arnold Europe 2nd place winner (80 kg)

2. Amirbakhman Olfatmanesh – 2012 Ukrainian champion

3. Andriy Iarmola – 2011 European champion (70 kg)

4. Sergey Osipov – 2011 Ukrainian Nationals 3rd place winner (80 kg)

5. Andriy Kolada – 2007 Cup of Ukraine winner (80 kg)

6. Sergey Chernyak – 2011 Cup of Ukraine winner (85 kg)

7. Oleg Lavrov– 2011 Cup of Ukraine runner-up (85 kg)

8. Sergey Gorenkov – 2012 European classic bodybuilding overall champion

9. Mohammed Alvani – 2012 Ukrainian classic bodybuilding champion (175 cm)

10. Gennady Tkachenko – 2012 Cup of Ukraine winner (masters open)

Venue: Machine Constructors Culture Center, 166 Rabochaya Str. . Beginning: 12:00 (noon).

Pictures:

GP Fitness House: Igor Gostiunin.

GP Fitness House: Vitaliy Fateev.

GP Fitness House: Andrey Skoromniy.

GP Fitness House: Svetlana Eregina.

GP Fitness House: Yana Kashcheeva.

Dnieper Cup: Andriy Sharapov.

Dnieper Cup: Andriy Iarmola.

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IGOR DELIEV RE-ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE UKRAINIAN FEDERATION

Mr. Igor Deliev has been re-elected as president of the Ukrainian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation for the next four-year term. Elections took place in conjunction with the 2012 Ukrainian Nationals held in Kiev last weekend.

Our sincere congratulations and best wished for a new term to Igor!

Igor Deliev, 51,had been a competitive athlete, first in boxing, then in powerlifting. He has been involved in the Ukrainian Bodybuilding Federation activity from its beginning, first as a Commercial Director, then as a Vice-President and President (since 2008). Due to his vigorous and efficient activity Ukrainian Federation has been developed and raised to a level not possible before. Ukrainian athletes won many top trophies and medals at the IFBB international championships, very often finishing in the top three in the best teams classification.

Next year the Ukrainian Federation is going to face the next challenge: they will host the 2013 IFBB World Women’s Championships. The contest will be held on September 13th to 16th, in the “Acco International” Exibition Center in Kiev. This is going to be the second IFBB international championships organized by the Ukrainian Federation under the presidency of Mr. Deliev. The firs was the 2010 European Juniors and Masters Championships hosted by the “city of roses” Doneck.

We wish the recently re-elected President and the Ukrainian Federation to continue this series of successes!

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IFBB newsletter honoring legendary Sergio Olivia who recently passed away..

SERGIO OLIVA PASSED AWAY

by Andrew Michalak

Just two days after the 66th World Men’s Championships, on November 12th, 2012, a sad news reached the world of sport: famous bodybuilder Sergio Oliva has passed away at the age of 71 after suffering from kidney disease. He was famous not only because of his sport achievement but also because of his inspirational and unique life story.

Oliva was born in Cuba on July 4, 1941. Grew up working with father his father in the sugar cane fields. When he was 16, his father convinced him to join the Batista’s Army and fight against the Fidel Castro forces. After the victory of the Castro revolution, he spent most of the time on the beach where he met one a colleague who invited him to the weightlifting club. Sergio emerged as a gifted weightlifter and after some time he qualified to the national weightlifting team for the 1962 Pan American Games in Jamaica. Being there, he took the risk and run away from the guarded headquarter of the Cuban team to the US Consulate there. Soon, 65 other Cuban athletes followed him. Maybe this 60-meter-run was the most important decision in his life.

Receiving the US asylum, he went to Miami but being afraid of his live (Castro agents) he moved to Chicago and started to work in the local police. Also continued to train a gym, doing unbelievable progresses in muscle and strength development. This led him to the local bodybuilding contest and then to the IFBB international competition. He was nicknamed "The Myth" (El Mito) due to his unbelievable size and muscularity.

Winning the 1966 Mr. World he qualified to the IFBB Mr. Olympia that same year but lost to Larry Scott. Her returned the next year, won the Olympia title, and became unbeatable in the next two years: 1968 and 1969. He was the only bodybuilder who won over Arnold Schwarzenegger on stage (in 1969). They both met once again in 1970 but this time Arnold was the winner. The same happened in 1972. Sergio returned to Mr. Olympia contest at the age of 43, finishing in the 8th position in 1984 and 1985, when he finished his competitive career.

Once again returned to newspapers’ pages in 1986, being shot by his then-wife Arleen Garrett. He sustained 5 bullet wounds.

Oliva starred in two Mexican action films: “El Poder Negro” (Black Power) and "Los Terribles" (The Terrible Ones). In 1999 he was inducted into the Joe Weider IFBB Hall of Fame.

Arnold Schwarzenegger has paid tribute to bodybuilding icon Sergio Oliva. In his blog Mr. Schwarzenegger writes - "Sergio Oliva was one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time & a true friend. A fierce competitor with a big personality - one of a kind."

Few photos of Sergio Oliva from his best days.

Sergio Oliva as a young weightlifter in Cuba.

This pose reflects his incredible body proportions.

Winning over Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1969. On the left: Joe Weider.

Front squat with 140 kg barbell.

Probably the most famous pose of “The Myth”.

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OUR LEADERS AND OUR MASTERS

by Andrew Michalak

The IFBB World Championships and IFBB International Congress are a good opportunity to meet and say “Thank you” to our leaders and great personalities from all over the world. They have been patiently and persistently working day by day to promote the physique sports in all corners of the world. Sometimes they are international leaders, sometimes continental, sometimes national but they have one common value: passion to our sports, passion to perfection. Sometimes they are also professionally involved in this field but mostly they are volunteers and enthusiasts who devote their life, their time and their mental power to promote and popularize our sports in their societies, to promote weight training and healthy lifestyle, to make our Federation more prestigious and more significant in the world sport family, Olympic and non-Olympic.

Let’s have a look who was honoured at the 66th World Men’s Championships in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

All photos by www.eastlabs.biz

IFBB Special Award to the President of South American (CSFF) and Ecuadorian Federations Juan Paredes. Always smiling, always supportive and friendly brought the IFBB World Men’s Championships to South America for the first time. Award presented by the IFBB President Dr. Rafael Santonja.

IFBB Silver Medal to the Ecuadorian Bodybuilding and Powerlifting Federation Treasurer Maria Teresa Guerrero. Presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja (left) and IFBB Women’s Committee Chairperson Wanda Tierney (right).

IFBB “Master in Bodybuilding and Fitness Methods” Diploma to the IFBB Vice-President for South America and former long-term President of the South American Federation Aquilles De Cesare of Uruguay. His devoted work has lead South America to the level never expected before.

IFBB Life Achievement Award to the African and Arab Federation President ad well as Egyptian Federation President Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim El Sayed. Egyptian National Team won the World Championships’ Best Team Classification for the seventh time! Congratulations to Dr. Eng Adel Fahim for his brilliant leadership of Egyptian Bodybuilders. Presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja (left) and IFBB Executive Director Pamela Kagan (right).

IFBB Distinguished Service Award to the founder and President of the Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (AFBF) Sheikh Abdulla Bin Rashid Al Khalifa of Bahrain. His very efficient management and leadership has changed the image of the Asian Federation and has made the Asian Championships the biggest ever event in their history. Presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja (left) and IFBB General Secretary William Tierney (right).

IFBB Gold Medal to the South American Federation Judges Committee Chairman Adolfo Martinez of Venezuela. Presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja.

IFBB Gold Medal to Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Federation President Giovanni Arendsz of Aruba. Presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja (right) and IFBB Vice-President for Caribbean Javier Pollock (left).

IFBB Silver Medal to the Singapore Federation (SFBF) President Terry Robacker presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja (second from right), Ms. Pamela Kagan (left) and Mr. William Tierney (second from left). Far right: SFBF Secretary General and Terry’s wife Mrs. Yekaterina Robacker.

IFBB Silver Medal to the South African Federation Chief Judge Bernard Groenewald. Presented by Dr. Rafael Santonja (right) and Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim (left).

IFBB President Dr. Rafael Santonja presented trophies to all distinguished officials; however at the end of the ceremony he was honoured with the Mexican Federation Gold Medal.

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ARNOLD TOKKO AT THE ESTONIAN OLYMPIC COMMITTEE

Last week regular elections to the Estonian Olympic Committee took place and the President of the Estonian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, Arnold Tokko, had the honor to be elected as the Representative of the Non-Olympic sports (32 Federations all together). OTT Kiivikas is already a member of the EOC as the President of the Athletes Commission. This shows the great respect and credibility the Estonian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation is bestowed in Estonia, being very well represented and recognized by the authorities.

In the picture, from left to right: Wiliam Tierney, Arnold Tokko, Rafael Santonja, Mr. Mart Siimann President of Estonian Olympic Committee and former Primer Minister of Estonia, Tomas Tõnise, General Secretary, Ergo Metsla and Ott Kiivikas.

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The latest IFBB newsletter reviews the Kamensk-Uralsky Mayor’s Cup;

ALEXANDER KOLYASNIKOV WINS IN KAMENSK-URALSKY

by Andrew Michalak

Based on information provided by Mr. Anton Girenko-Kotsuba

Last weekend, November 17^th, a big international invitational bodybuilding contest “The Kamensk-Uralsky Mayor’s Cup” was held in Kamensk-Uralsky, a city with over 300 years history, situated 110 km south-east of Yekaterynburg, in the Sverdlovsk Province (Oblast) of the Ural’s Federal District of Russia. Through the past 200 years the city (then Kamensky Zavod) was famous of its cannons – the best in the world at those times. Nowadays it is an industrial production center, with famous metallurgical complex (Sinarsky Pipe Works).

Contest promoters: Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation of the Sverdlovsk Province and Ministry of Physical Education, Sport and Youth Policy of the Sverdlovsk Province offered a massive prize money of USD 20,000 – one of the biggest in our amateur sport history. This was an idea of the Russian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Vice-President and Sverdlovsk Province Federation President, Mr. Anton Girenko-Kotsuba, the youngest president of all province federations in Russia. An interview (in Russian) with Mr. Girenko-Kotsuba is available under address: http://ural.corp.meg...r/#.UKuyTO5DCbE

Promoters invited 12 top amateur bodybuilders from Central and Eastern Europe, mostly continental and world championships medal winners and National Team members of the Czech Republic, Ukraine and Russia. The judging panel was formed of the IFBB international judges especially invited from all corners of Russia as well as from Ukraine.

The 1^st place and main trophy (US $4000) went to 2012 European champion (85 kg class) and 2012 Arnold Europe 3^rd place winner Alexander Kolyasnikov of Yekaterinburg. In Madrid Kolyasnikov lost to the Czech bodybuilder Vojtech Koritensky who won 85 kg class, so this was a “return match” and this time Kolyasnikov was successful. Second place went to Andrey Kukharchuk of Lvov, Ukraine. Andrey was not so successful at the beginning of the autumn season, finishing 11^th at the Champions Cup in Moscow and later on 5^th at the Men’s Worlds in Ecuador. Obviously, his body condition has been continuously improving and reached the top shape at this contest in Kamensk, bringing him the 2^nd position.

He placed ahead of his team-mate Vladislav Mazhara of Kyiv, who returned to the stage after few years break and it has been a successful comeback, bringing him the 5^th place in Ecuador and the 3^rd place in Kamensk. Mazhara placed ahead of so well-known champions like 2011 Arnold Europe winner Andrey Sorokin and 2012 Arnold Europe champion Vojtech Koritensky. It is clearly seen that bodybuilders, who displayed top shape at the beginning of this season have been slowly dropping in classification at the further contests, having problems with maintaining their top condition (definition). It is the specificity of our sports and our bodies.

Two super heavyweight bodybuilders: Sergey Kozin and Alexey Tronov were tied with 105 points each but higher, 6^th place, went to Kozin. 2012 Russian national champion, Tronov, also couldn’t keep his shape, so his further contests were less successful for him (6^th place at the Champions Cup in Moscow and 9^th place in Ecuador).

Anyway, this contest created the next opportunity to the top competitors to appear in front of the their fans and earn serious money.

Organizers prepared one big surprise for the viewers: invited for guest posing Russian bodybuilding pioneer and champion from the time of the Soviet Union, Nikolay Yasinovsky. Mr. Yasinovsky, 50 years old now, as the first Russian bodybuilder turned pro in 1990 and then took part in two 1994 pro shows: Chicago Pro and Niagara Falls, finishing 4^th at both events. The second attraction was a bench press exhibition by the top world lifter Vladimir Maksimov, who pressed 400 kg in Kamensk!

Organizers provided a top quality webcast from this contest. According to Mr. Girenko-Kotsuba, hundreds of fans around the world followed this webcast. This was possible due to the high quality technical infrastructure available in the Ural District.

In closing, one more good news: this contest will be continued in 2013! Mayor of Kamensk-Uralsky, Mr. Mikhail Astanov, promised to include more categories in the next year’s edition and to invite bodybuilders from more countries. It seems that IFBB will have one more prestigious contest in its 2013 Calendar of Events! Congratulations to our “Brothers in iron” from the famous of its iron ore Ural District!

Maybe nowadays Kamensk-Uralsky will become famous of the bodybuilders’ biggest caliber “cannons”, popularly named “the guns” (what means big arms)? I propose to found a special award: small silver-cast cannon replica with cannon ball in the muzzle for bodybuilder with the biggest guns (arm size).

Kamensk-Uralsky Mayor’s Cup results (points):

1. Alexander Kolyasnikov

2. Andrey Kukharchuk

3. Vladislav Mazhara

4. Andrey Sorokin

5. Voitech Koritensky

6. Sergey Kozin

7. Alexey Tronov

8. Andrey Leonov

9. Igor Gostunin

10. Jaroslav Paseka

11. Alexander Yashankin

In photos;

Alexander Kolyasnikov with the Mayor’s Cup.

The top three (from L): Vladislav Mazhara (3^rd place), Alexander Kolyasnikov (1^st place), Andrey Kukharchuk (2^nd place).

The finalists with Mayor Mikhail Astanov (in the center) and President of the Sverdlovsk Province Federation Anton Girenko-Kotsuba.

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The latest news from the end of the week, focusing of course on the IFBB CBB World Championships and 2012 World Cup;

2012 WORLD CLASSIC BODYBUILDING CHAMPIONSHIPS

SOFIA, BULGARIA, NOVEMBER 23RD - 26TH, 2012

Read the wholre review HERE - http://www.ifbb.com/newsletter/detail.php?id=10429&date=2012-11-16&language=english&prov=index

It will be the next exciting weekend in the IFBB yearly activity: 2012 IFBB World Classic Bodybuilding Championships and IFBB World Cup to be held in Sofia, Bulgaria. Bulgarian Federation Secretary Irena Ilieva send us the list of nominated athletes and this list looks great!

As many as 91 classic bodybuilders from 32 countries were entered, so there will be the next breaking through IFBB record of participation in this kind of championships. Last year there were 73 competitors from 27 countries. First time we will have classic bodybuilders from all 5 continents, so this sport has been progressing and expanding all over the world. Whom will we see on the stage in each category?

Classic bodybuilding up to 168 cm:

The longest ever line-up in this category at the Worlds: 12 athletes. Among them last year’s runner-up Suguru Kamada (Japan), 2012 European champion Osman Colak (Turkey), 2007 Worlds bronze medal winner Gianluca Fiorenti (Italy) and Croatian veteran Robert Horvath, who entered the finals of the last two Worlds but also won the European title in… athletic fitness.

Classic bodybuilding up to 171 cm:

Surprisingly nobody from the last year’s finals but there will be 2010 world champion Yeon-Seok Yang (Korea), who is going to regain the title after the last year’s failure (7th place). Moreover, the current Europeans runner-up (but from 175 cm class) Antonio Ludovico (Italy) and the Europeans bronze medal winner Ciro Credendino (Belgium). It seems to be an easier category and a good opportunity for new athletes from Iran, Bulgaria, Canada, South Africa and Turkey do jump into the medal zone.

Classic bodybuilding up to 175 cm:

Elimination round will be needed as the number of participants has expanded to 21. Under the absence of 2011 world champion Myung Sub Kim, the main pretenders seem to be: endless runner-up Aleksander Barbashin (Russia), who placed 2nd at the last year’s Worlds and both 2012 Arnolds as well as 2010 Worlds runner-up Andrej Varga (Slovakia). Moreover, four consecutive European champions: Vladimir Kurdov (2009), Tomas Tabaciar (2010), Przemyslaw Zokowski (2011) and Metin Cayci (2012). Category packed with the champions, so entering the finals will already be a success!

Classic bodybuilding up to 180 cm:

The longest category at these Championships, with 25 names. I can’t see the name of the last year’s champion Taavi Koovit but there will be the runner-up Aristidis Nikolopoulos (South Africa) as well as 2010 bronze medal winner Thomas Schnelldorfer (Germany). Plus the two top from the 2012 Europeans: Serhii Gorenkov (Ukraine) and Ali Emre (Turkey) and two-time Europeans runner-up Robert Majewski (Poland). No clear favourite, anyone can win.

Classic bodybuilding over 180 cm:

Still over 20 athletes but no the 2011 world champion Mateusz Kolkowski among them. The runner-up Andrey Lopushanskiy (Azerbaijan) will be there as well as 2010 Worlds runner-up Lubos Malinak (Slovakia) and 2012 Europeans runner-up Drazen Vrbancic (Croatia). And a lot of new names, who knows if the future world champion is not hidden among them?

2013 IFBB INTERNATIONAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS

by Andrew Michalak

The recent IFBB International Congress in Guayaquil, Ecuador, approved the main IFBB regional, continental and world championships. The season kicks off celebrating the 6th IFBB Amateur Arnold Classic Championship in Columbus. The basic frame of events remains the same like in the previous years. The only two new positions are:

- Arnold Classic Brazil to be held in Rio at the end of April. This event will be open for competitors from South America, Central America and Caribbean only.

- Central American Games (recognized by the IOC) to be held in San Jose, Costa Rica, at the beginning of March. Open for ORDECA (Organización Deportiva Centroamericana) countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama. Includes classic bodybuilding, fitness and bodyfitness. This will be the 10th edition of this Games, started in 1973.

Many locations of the 2013 IFBB championships offers also top tourist attractions but the most important matter is that our physique sports are expanding to the new territories and new regions of the globe.

Most of dates have already been fixed but, as usual, some small changes can be expected, so visit the IFBB website regularly to follow the updates, please. Note, that the World Men’s Championships will be held in the Arab country, so the date will be middle of a week, not the weekend. This is to be confirmed soon.

2013 IFBB TOP INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

1. Amateur Arnold Classic America - Columbus, Ohio, USA, Feb. 28 - March 03

2. Central American Games – San Jose, Costa Rica, March 05-08

3. Arab Juniors, Men’s & Masters Championships - Alexandria, Egypt, April

4. Eastern European Cup - Murmansk, Russia, April 26-29 www.fbfr.ru

5. Amateur Arnold Classic Brazil - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, April 26-28

6. European Men’s BB and CBB Championships - Chisinau, Moldova, May 03-05

7. European Women’s, Juniors & Masters Champ. - St. Susanna, Spain, May 09-12

8. Asian Championships - Astana, Kazakhstan, June

9. 1st IFBB Tahiti NUI Bodybuilding Cup – Tahiti, French Polynesia, Aug. 03-04

10. African Championships - Libya, Aug.

11. North American Championships - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, Aug. 30-31 ican-championships/

12. South American Championships - Santa Cruz, Bolivia, Sept. 05-08

13. Central American & Caribbean Champ. - St. Domingo, Dominican Rep., Sept. 09

14. World Women’s Championships - Kiev, Ukraine, Sept. 13-16

15. Amateur Arnold Classic Europe, Madrid, Spain, Oct. 11-13

16. Eastern European Championships - Perm, Russia, Oct. 25-28

17. World Men’s Bodybuilding Champ. - Marrakech, Morocco, second week of Nov.

18. World Classic Bodybuilding Championships - St. Poelten, Austria, Nov. 15-18

19. World Juniors & Masters Championships – request from Mongolia Nov.?<

Pictures:

Rio, with its gigantic Christ-the-Redeemer monument, one of the biggest soccer stadiums in the world (Maracana) and famous beaches (Copacabana) will be the world sport capital in the upcoming years.

Kyiv already organized a couple of physique sport events but the World Championships will be staged for the first time there.

DR. FRANCISCO ABRIL, NEW ACTING SECRETARY OF THE IFBB MEDICAL COMMISSION

Dr. Francisco Abril from Spain, has been appointed new acting Secretary of the IFBB Medical Commission, replacing the late Professor Beuker. Dr. Francisco Abril, a very prestigious Spanish surgeon, was a pioneer in sport medicine in Spain, graduating from the first promotion of sport medicine in 1970.

In the picture we can see Dr. Abril greeted by the at the time IOC President, the late Juan Antonio Samaranch, as well as a recent photograph of him at the World Championship and IFBB Congress recently held in Guayaquil, Ecuador.

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The latest IFBB news;

AFTER THE 2012 AMATEUR MR. OLYMPIA IN KUWAIT

by Andrew Michalak

The 2012 Amateur Mr. Olympia was staged in Kuwait City by the Kuwaiti Bodybuilding Federation, with its President Bader Boodai as a promoter. The winner, Mamdouh Elssbiay (Egypt), better known as a “Big Ramy”, who works as a Captain in the famous Oxygen Gym in Kuwait, won the Pro Card in a tough competition against three world champions and nearly 70 other top bodybuilders, mainly from Middle East, but also from some African and Asian Countries. The contest was honored with the presence of the IFBB President Dr. Rafael Santonja, IFBB Vice-Presidents: Dr. Eng. Adel Fahim (Africa) and Sheikh Abdulla Bin Rashid Al Khalifa (Asia), IFBB General Secretary William Tierney, Vice-President of AMI – Events: Robin Chang and many National Federations Presidents. IFBB Judges Committee Chairman Pawel Filleborn was running the procedure.

It was visible that with its second edition and famous name this competition has been gathering momentum, prestige, popularity and media attention. Many rumors have been spread about the future of this contest. People ask if it will be continued on yearly bases, where will the 2013 edition take place, who will be eligible to participate, etc. To get the most reliable answer to these questions, I asked the IFBB President, Dr. Rafael Santonja:

“IFBB is really pleased with the organization of this Amateur Olympia 2012, Bader Boodai delivered a first class event, covering each and every detail, including promotion, press, attentions to athletes, excellent venue and superb hospitality. In our opinion Kuwait has proved to be the first class destination for our sport, and we’ll study with appreciation any further requirement coming from Bader Boodai, as a skilful organizer and loyal IFBB official.” – Dr. Santonja said.

Pictures:

IFBB President Dr. Rafael Santonja had to give a lot of interviews to the media.

Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay crowned as the second Amateur Mr. Olympia winner by President Santonja (right) and contest promoter Mr. Bader Boodai (left).

“Big Ramy” looks amazing. Maybe he is the biggest amateur talent from the time of Dennis Wolf, who won the 2007 IFBB World Championships? Good luck among the pros!

Kuwaiti Federation President Bader Boodai in front of his Oxygen Gym.

FLEXCUP

Last December 2nd , organized by Harry de Jonge & Renee Groenen, the Dutch National Federation, under the leadership of Juliette Bergman, organized a very successful Flexcup for beginners with a record number of 132 athletes in competition. The President of the German Federation Guido Falk presented the awards for the overall winner with the IFBB Pro Star Roelly Winklaar and Harry de Jonge. Athletes from Belgium also attended the event.

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PAUL AND CAROLE GRAHAM WILL VISIT TAHITI

South Pacific and Oceania IFBB Vice President Paul Graham and his wife, Executive Council member Carole Graham, will visit Tahiti, meeting with the Tahiti Bodybuilding Federation President and organizer of the first International Tahiti Cup, Mr. Jerry Yeung, during their inspection visit to visit venue site, hotels and meeting government and Olympic authorities to support this excellent initiative.

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The action in IFBB is starring again after the holidays;

2012-12-16

UPCOMING EVENTS

IFBB Assistant General Secretary Rauf Bunyataliyev will visit next January the cities of Ulaan Baator (Mongolia), Almaty (Kazhajstan), in inspection trips for upcoming international event projects for 2013.

The international IFBB calendar keeps growing and the incorporation of skillful and experienced officials such as Rauf Bunyataliyev and other key officials are very important to guarantee the best success of the IFBB International Sport Program.

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THE NEW EUROPEAN FEDERATION WEB

You can visit the new EBFF web site at http://www.ebff.eu/ This new web is launched,thogeter with the EBFF Facebook ,for the best service of our athletes ,oficials and fitness enthusiast ,including news, reports ,and all the interesting info of the IFBB activities in Europe.Dont miss it!!

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http://www.ifbb.com/newsletter/detail.php?id=10410&date=2013-01-01&language=english&prov=index

IRANIAN ROAD TO SUCCESS

by Andrew Michalak

IFBB affiliated Iranian Bodybuilding Federation is very young: was created in 2009, with Mr. Omid Amiri as its President. Due to his efforts and activity, Iranian bodybuilders has gained the possibility to participate in the IFBB international events once again. Iranian bodybuilding has had a long and full of success history in the IFBB, having so great stars like three-time IFBB World Bodybuilding Championships overall winner Ali Tabrizi and two-time world champion Baitollah Abbaspour. Mr. Abbaspour is now an elite IFBB Pro League bodybuilder and Mr. Tabrizi entered the IFBB Executive Council as the IFBB Athletes’ Representative in the meantime he consider to go for the pro events, or remain as amateur.

.

In 2011 Iran was the best team at the Asian Championships in Mongolia, having the bodybuilding overall champion Morteza Roshanzamirtabari, two continental champions: Mahdi Pirsarandib (85 kg category) and Mehrshad Borzouei (juniors, over 70 kg class) as well as other medal winners: Mani Maddahi, Mahmoud Tabrizi Nouri, Arash Navidi, Hassan Panahi.

Later on that year they emerged as the 3rd best team at the IFBB World Men’s Championships in Mumbai, India, having the world champion in 80 kg category, Ahmad Paydar, and three other medal winners: Mehdi Hatami and Mohammad Mehraban (90 kg category) as well as Hasan Rahnamaeian (+100 kg category). This success entered the new Iranian team to the world elite of the best national teams.

For the second time in a row, Iran was the best team at the 2012 Asian Championships, having three continental champions: Hossein Shibanikarkhaneh (men’s bodybuilding up to 85 kg), Mehrshad Borzouei (junior bodybuilding +75 kg) and Hesam Safiri (men’s fitness) as well as 7 runner-ups!

Then, Iran took part in the 2012 Arnold Classic Europe, bringing a strong team there, with Ahmad Paydar as the unbeatable champion in 80 kg class and the next gold medal winner: Majid Gholamghamari (classic bodybuilding over 180 cm) as well as two runner-ups: Saeid Karjalian (85 kg) and Reza Kakavand (90 kg).

The next trip of Iranian athletes was to Sofia, Bulgaria, to participate in the World Classic Bodybuilding Championships and IFBB World Cup. And this trip has brought them unprecedented success, with a double win of Javad Soltani and Mehdi Yarali in up to 171 cm class and gold medal of Mahdi Zatparvar in up to 180 cm category, who later on won the overall title, being crowned the champion of the champions!.

At the end of November they went to the Kuwait City to take part in the 2nd Amateur Mr. Olympia. Their team of 7 athletes won one gold medal (Mohammad Ali Takapouei), two silver medals (Ahmad Paydar, Reza Kakavand) and three bronze medals (Morteza Norouzi, Mahdi Pirsaranadip, Meysam Keshvari), taking the 2nd place, just after unbeatable Egypt.

All this achievements of the Iranian Team in 2011 and 2012 was possible due the vigorous and efficient activity of their President, Mr. Omid Amiri, Mr. Ali Tabrizi (world athlete representative at the IFBB exco) and their National Coach, Mr. Mahmoud Savalan. IFBB appreciates their skillful, professional work and awarded Mr. Amiri with the IFBB Silver Medal presented to him by the IFBB President Dr. Rafael Santonja in Budapest. We wish them further progress and a lot of success in 2013!

Pictures:

by www eastlabs.biz

2012 IFBB World Classic Bodybuilding Championships overall winner Mahdi Zatparvar with Mr. Amiri (left) and Iranian Federation National Coach Mahmoud Savalan (right).

Ali Tabrizi – great Iranian World Champion and representative of athletes at the IFBB Exco.

2012 IFBB world classic bodybuilding overall champion Mahdi Zatparvar.

Iran - the 2nd best National Team of the 2012 IFBB World Classic Bodybuilding Championships in Sofia.

2011 world bodybuilding champion (80 kg category) and 2012 Arnold Classic Europe winner Ahmad Paydar.

2012 IFBB World Cup bodybuilding champion Mehdi Ayari.

2012 IFBB Amateur Mr. Olympia bodybuilding (up to 70 kg) champion Mohammad Ali Takapouei.

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IFBB newsletter updates about upcoming shows and shares some pre-information;

MR. EUROPE PRO MEN AT SANTA SUSANNA

Santa Susanna, the capital of sport for Fitness and Bodybuilding, in the Spanish province of Barcelona, will host from the 2nd to the 5th of May at the European Junior and Master’s Championship (in an extended program starting Thursday), the 4th edition of the Mr. Europe Pro that will take place on Sunday evening 5th of May.

IFBB WORLD MEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP AND CONGRESS 2013 IN MARRAKECH

Marrakech, a Magical Destination

Marrakech, world famous touristic city, reachable from any main European airport, has all the facilities to accommodate athletes, delegates and extra delegates – don’t miss this opportunity to visit this unique city in Morocco.

OPEN CUP OF SERBIA 2013

Guest Poser Dennis Wolf

14th April 2013, Belgrade, SERBIA

Serbian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation will organize the traditional Open Cup of Serbia in Belgrade on April 14th (Sunday) in the beautiful Hall of the House of Unions (Dom Sindikata), which is located in downtown Belgrade. This Cup is open for all competitors from the countries affiliated with the IFBB with the approval of their National Federations.

The special guest and poser will be the gigantic Dennis Wolf, one of the best IFBB professionals.

All the details regarding this competition (Programe and Tentative Schedule) will be available soon via the IFBB and EBFF web sites.

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EBFF shares a report from the EBFF annual meeting - http://ebff.es/?p=2495 with some important decisions;

Members of the European Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Executive Council met in Toledo, Spain, last weekend to summarize 2012 activity, discuss new challenges, approved the EBFF financial report and make other decisions. Run by the EBFF President, Dr. Rafael Santonja, the meeting has brought many decisions important to the European physique sports family, but not only.

The most important decisions for the European athletes and officials are as follows:

- To create the EBFF European Fitness Championships. It was possible by moving women’s bodybuilding to the previous European Men’s Bodybuilding Championships. This creates better conditions for improving bodybuilding mixed pairs category, having the continental top women’s and men’s bodybuilders at one contest.

- To create the European Bodybuilding Championships which will include men’s, women’s and mixed pairs categories. According to the 2012 IFBB International Congress decision, there will be one open women’s bodybuilding category but each National Federation may enter two female bodybuilders in A-Team.

- To include the men’s bodybuilding up to 95 kg category in all future European Bodybuilding Championships, started from 2013 continental championships. So, each EBFF affiliated National Federation may enter male bodybuilders in the up to 95 kg category for the 2013 European Championships in Chisinau, Moldova.

- New IFBB sports: Women’s and Men’s Physique will be included in the 2013 European Fitness Championships to be held in Santa Susanna, Spain, and will be combined with the European Juniors and Masters Championships this year. In this case, junior women’s athletes may participate in the women’s categories at the European Fitness Championships, if they wish. These two championships are treated as a separate events.

More details soon. The meeting was smoothly presided by Dr. Rafael Santonja, so the discussions were interesting, full of new ideas and concepts and led to the best possible final decisions. In the breaks, all participants had a possibility to visit the most interesting places in Toledo – the unique city, former capital of the Spanish Empire, where coexistence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures is seen almost at each corner. Our thanks to the EBFF President and his staff for arranging a great weekend.

EBFF Executive Council in Toledo, SPAIN

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And the latest IFBB news (includes also the IFBB report from the EBFF annual meeting)

EBFF ANNUAL MEETING IN TOLEDO, SPAIN

by Andrew Michalak

Members of the European Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Executive Council met in Toledo, Spain, last weekend to summarize 2012 activity, discuss new challenges, approved the EBFF financial report and make other decisions. Run by the EBFF President, Dr. Rafael Santonja, the meeting has brought many decisions important to the European physique sports family, but not only.

The most important decisions for the European athletes and officials are as follows:

- To create the EBFF European Fitness Championships. It was possible by moving women’s bodybuilding to the previous European Men’s Bodybuilding Championships. This creates better conditions for improving bodybuilding mixed pairs category, having the continental top women’s and men’s bodybuilders at one contest.

- To create the European Bodybuilding Championships which will include men’s, women’s and mixed pairs categories. According to the 2012 IFBB International Congress decision, there will be one open women’s bodybuilding category but each National Federation may enter two female bodybuilders in A-Team.

- To include the men’s bodybuilding up to 95 kg category in all future European Bodybuilding Championships, started from 2013 continental championships. So, each EBFF affiliated National Federation may enter male bodybuilders in the up to 95 kg category for the 2013 European Championships in Chisinau, Moldova.

- New IFBB sports: Women’s and Men’s Physique will be included in the 2013 European Fitness Championships to be held in Santa Susanna, Spain, and will be combined with the European Juniors and Masters Championships this year. In this case, junior women’s athletes may participate in the women’s categories at the European Fitness Championships, if they wish. These two championships are treated as a separate events.

More details soon. The meeting was smoothly presided by Dr. Rafael Santonja, so the discussions were interesting, full of new ideas and concepts and led to the best possible final decisions. In the breaks, all participants had a possibility to visit the most interesting places in Toledo – the unique city, former capital of the Spanish Empire, where coexistence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures is seen almost at each corner. Our thanks to the EBFF President and his staff as well as to the Spanish Federation for their hospitality and smooth solutions to all logistic problems.

Pictures:

by Angel Molinero and Andrew Michalak

Toledo panorama, with its famous Alcazar castle (deep left) and Cathedral (right).

Participants of the 2013 EBFF Executive Council Meeting in the luxury

5-star Fontecruz Hotel in Toledo (from L): Vladimir Dubinin (Russia), Marco Bosco (Italy), Erich Janner (Germany), Irina Delieva and Igor Deliev (Ukraine), Wanda Tierney (United Kingdom), Albert Busek (Germany), Dr. Rafael Santonja (Spain), Benedetto Mondello (Italy), William Tierney (United Kingdom), K.P. Ourama (Finland), Pawel Filleborn and Andrew Michalak (Poland), Jose Ramos (Spain), Dr. Milan Cizek (Slovakia), Dr. Wolfgang Schober (Austria).

The head table (from L): EBFF Vice-President Pawel Filleborn, EBFF General Secretary William Tierney, EBFF President Dr. Rafael Santonja, EBFF Honorary President and IFBB Vice-President for Europe Albert Busek, EBFF Financial Director Jose Ramos.

The participants (from L): EBFF Legal Adviser Marco Bosco, EBFF Judges Committee Chairman Erich Janner, EBFF Technical Committee Chairperson Wanda Tierney.

The participants (from L): EBFF Vice-President Benedetto Mondello, EBFF Vice-President Vladimir Dubinin, EBFF Fitness Committee member Irina Delieva, Executive Assistant to the President Igor Deliev, EBFF Anti-Doping Commission Chairman Dr. Milan Cizek.

The participants (from L): EBFF Nordic Liaison Officer K.P. Ourama, Mr. Angel Molinero from the Spanish Federation.

Dr. Rafael Santonja presenting the President’s Annual Report.

Visit to the Adolfo Munoz’s famous wine cellars in Toledo.

BODYBUILDING MEN'S NEW 95 KG. CATEGORY ON DUTY

The 95 Kg. Men’s bodybuilding category will be incorporated this year at the official program in the world men’s Championship – Marrakech (dates) and at Arnold Classic Europe in Madrid. This category will be already included in the program at the European Men’s Championship in Chisinau, Moldova.

This decision has been adopted due to the high number of competitors in the category up to 100 Kg. at International events

1-6 MAY 2013, SANTA SUSANNA, SPAIN

THE EUROPEAN WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIPS WILL BE IN COMBINATION WITH THE EUROPEAN JUNIORS AND MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS IN SANTA SUSANNA, SPAIN

EUROPEAN WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIPS CATEGORIES

BODY-FITNESS, BIKINI-FITNESS, FITNESS (Men and Women), PHYSIQUE (Men and Women)

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The recent IFBB news focus on upcoming Arnold Classic - not only in Columbus but also the new version of this event - AC in Rio!

ARNOLD CLASSIC IN RIO IS MOVING FORWARD

President Santonja and Bob Lorimer visited Rio in the follow up of the preparation of the first Arnold Classic South America that will take place from 26 – 28 April in Rio de Janeiro

All the preparations are running smoothly in the best expectations. In the picture we can see from left to right, Luis Felipe Bonilha and Ana Paula Leal Graziano from Savaget, Bob Lorimer, President Rafael Santonja, Prof. Mauricio de Arruda and Nilson Medeiros from the organizing committee.

In this first edition the IFBB participation will be open for North, Central, Caribbean and South American countries.

2013 ARNOLD CLASSIC: LAST FEW DAYS FOR NOMINATION

by Andrew Michalak

National Federations have the last few days to nominate their athletes for the upcoming 7th Arnold Amateur Championships to be held in Columbus, Ohio, USA, on the first weekend of March, 2013.

According to the Inspection Report, National Federations may send the names of nominated athletes to the IFBB General Secretary William Tierney (w.tierney@ifbb-uk.com ) or directly to the IFBB Headquarters (internacional@santonja.com) not later than January 31st, 2013. Final Entry Form is a part of the Inspection Report available at the IFBB website. Sending the nomination doesn’t mean that the nominated athlete will be allowed to participate. Due to the time restrictions in the sport facilities, the number of athletes accepted will be limited. The final list of accepted athletes will be published on February 15th, 2013 on the Arnold Amateur website: http://arnoldamateur.com/

This year’s Arnold Amateur North America will include 35 different categories:

- Men’s Bodybuilding (70 kg, 75 kg, 80 kg, 85 kg, 90 kg, 100 kg, +100 kg)

- Men’s Masters Bodybuilding (age 40-49, age over 50)

- Men’s Classic Bodybuilding (168 cm, 171 cm, 175 cm, 180 cm, +180 cm)

- Women’s Bodybuilding (55 kg, +55 kg)

- Women’s Fitness (163 cm, +163 cm)

- Women’s Bodyfitness (155 cm, 159 cm, 163 cm, 167 cm, 170 cm, +170 cm)

- Women’s Masters Bodyfitness (163 cm, 168 cm, +168 cm)

- Women’s Bikini Fitness (155 cm, 159 cm, 163 cm, 167 cm, 170 cm, +170 cm)

- Women’s Physique (163 cm, +163 cm)

- Men’s Physique (173 cm, +173 cm)

Many countries have already sent their nominations. We can see a lot of the IFBB top stars coming to Columbus this year. One of the biggest national teams will be from Italy. There will be 39 athletes, with many well-known stars among them. “This is the biggest and most powerful Italian team ever participated at the Arnold Classic in Columbus” – Italian Federation President Benedetto Mondello said. “We hope to win many top places there” – he added.

Below we present the most famous Italian athletes nominated to the 2013 Arnold Amateur Championships in Columbus:

Pictures:

Corrado Maggiore: legendary Italian bodybuilder, two-time world champion and two-time European champion, practically never out of the medal zone. In 2008 2nd place in Columbus (behind Javier Reynoso). In 2011 and 2012 – 2nd place at the Arnold Europe in Madrid. Not enough these 2nd places? Now it’s time for victory and he has potentials to do it!

Allessandro Galli: fantastic classic bodybuilding overall winner in Columbus last year, displaying incredible muscle density and definition. Now will come back to defense his title.

Antonio Ludovico: runner up at the two previous European Championships, first time in Columbus and with big appetite for victory.

Allessandro Zuccaro: 2011 Arnold America winner in 75 kg class, now will come back to regain the title, but in the heavier class up to 80 kg.

Fabio Branciamore: 3rd place winner at the 2012 Arnold Europe, first time going to Columbus, ready to surprise all of us.

Cristina Romano: Silver medal at the 2012 European Championships in bodyfitness is a proof that she has reached the top international level. Will she confirm this in Columbus?

Anna Maria Giordani: 2011 Arnold America masters bodyfitness class A winner. Now returns with the goal to regain the title.

Cristina Menini: long time in the sport scene but the last few years were not so successful for her; however she won the 2012 Notte dei Championi qualification contest. Who knows…

Ester Parisi: top Italian bodyfitness competitor now will try in a new IFBB category: women’s physique. Maybe, it will be her best choice?

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IFBB MEETING IN COPACABANA?

President Santonja, Bob Lorimer, Prof. Mauricio de Arruda, President of the Brazilian Confederation, and Alcides Medina, General Secretary of the South American Federation, met in Rio in the follow up preparations of the Arnold Classic South America. Very interesting how Rio, a city that loves sport and physical condition, through its City Hall has arranged multi-stations along the beachfront on the mythical beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema, making a natural place for Athletic Fitness IFBB events?

INSPECION VISIT TO MOLDOVA - EUROPEAN MEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP AND CONGRESS

Rauf Bunyataliyev (Azerbaijan) Assistant General Secretary, is travelling to Chisinau, Moldova, to perform the inspection visit for the Bodybuilding Men’s, Women’s and Mixed pairs bodybuilding that will bring for the first time an European Championship to Moldova and is being performed with great expectations in a very positive manner.

By agreement of the European Executive Council, the female bodybuilding category will be performed at this event.

IFBB ATTENDED THE WADA SYMPOSIUM IN TOKIO

Susumu Yoshida, Chairman of the Asian Anti-Doping commission, attended in representation of IFBB and the Asian Fed the 6th International Anti-Doping Seminar in Asia in partnership with WADA.

IFBB is in compliance and in good application of the WADA code and will attend next March the WADA symposium in Lausanne in the course of its fluent relationship with this important body.