You don't have to win 1st place in your show to be a winner.

thaibodybuilder · 04-20-2008, 11:18 PM

It's been about 48 hours since the end of my competition @ the 2008 Stingrey Classic Bodybuilding Show in Honolulu, Hawaii. I'd like to first and foremost, congratulate all that participated in the show. It takes a lot to decide to compete on stage, and I applaud everyone that was apart of it.

Many of my friends and family who weren't able to make it to the show, have talked to me since then and have asked "So , how'd it go? "

I respond with, "My opinion, or the judges opinion?" :->

Those who made it to the show, have told me "Congraluations for getting 3rd place!"

...I fake smile trying to cover up a cringe.

I remember before going on stage that night (with prejudging over and done with) I told myself, I refuse to let any judge determine how satisfied I am with myself. I have worked hard. I have made lots of sacrifices. I have made improvements since my last year of competition. I am in the best shape of my life. I deserve to be here. I have incredible friends that have been there during the entire journey to support and encourage me through the best and worst times. I have people in the audience that are cheering my name. This is my moment. I'm going to enjoy it.

..."And coming in third place is.... ______ (my name) "

And I step on stage with the most convincing smile I can muster, while my friends cheered for me at the top of their lungs.

Simply put, I was pissed. I felt disgusted with the competition. Completely disappointed. The "bulk" look has prevailed over leaner and tighter conditioning. I failed to mention, that me being a bantamweight, had been combined with the lightweight class, which meant those against me, were already at nearly a 10lb advantage.

I step off stage, go straight for the jug of ice water, followed by 3 creme puffs, I decide to head outside, grab the nearest food item (I got my hands on a jumbo cheese dog on a white bun with onions and chilli all over) and retreat to my room to sulk. I order 2 large pizzas from Papa Johns. I am never going to do a bodybuilding competition again! I think to myself.

Let's be real. The NPC circuit by nature, seems to judge favorably on mass over conditioning. And whether presentation even has any weight in their decision, who only knows. I'm not going to complain about the standards they have set, when it was ME who decided to enter already knowing what they were looking for. I'm also not going to pretend that to be competitive in this sport, many decide to use alternative methods to acheive that edge, and its simply something I am not willing to do. So, if you're already reading this and thinking, "no sh**" you should have known better, than maybe I don't know who I was trying to fool...

It's been a few days since the show has ended. I'm in a much better state of mind to think clearly. The bottomline is this. Bodybuilding to me, is more than just getting on stage and competing. Bodybuilding has transformed my life. I am not longer that skinny, weak 115 scrawny asian kid. I've added a significant of muscle to my body since I started. I gained an inner confidence I never had while growing up. Bodybuilding has taught so much. I've gained an incredible amount discipline and willpower. I know all about how to manage my time. I have a huge pain tolerance and I can function under stress. I know all about food, diet, supplementation, and how to exercise. I have already achieved, what many will never acheive. There is so much to be thankful for, yet for the past two years I have become so consumed with competition, that I put so much weight into "the next show" and how I would place, that I lost sight for a second why I love bodybuilding so much.

After stepping off stage that night, with my cold and sour attitude, while holding my unappreciated 3rd place trophy, someone who I didn't even know stopped me in the lobby. "Hey, I've been keeping up with you on bodybuilding.com. You really inspired me in so many ways. Can I take a picture with you?" At the moment, I didn't think much of it. But now looking back, wow, that was cool.

I know this experience competing in the NPC circuit was a huge reality check for me. Even in the novice division, I am going to have to work that much harder to even be in the game. Unfortunately the natural scene is non-existant here. I'll leave you guys with this note. Don't ever forget that although this sport is designed to compare you to the next guy (literally), remember to stand tall , be confident, remind yourself of the hard work you put in, and if you did all that you could do to have trained, and dieted to get on stage, you are truly a winner! Only you can judge yourself. And don't let anyone else tell or make you feel otherwise.

As for me and my future competition plans... well, that is to remain a secret. It's longsleeve shirts and long pants to the gym here on out. And I do warn you, that when/if you guys see me on stage again, plan to be amazed. = )

Enjoy pictures taken with my friend Monica the day of competition.

Thanks for reading everyone!

**ctgblue** · 04-21-2008, 08:03 AM

Yep
Just getting in shape to get onstage, in a speedo, in front of 1,000 people, takes mucho guts.
3rd place is a start.
My first show-last, second show-second from last, third show 3rd in class (last of the group by 1 pt)
but every show I come in more conditioned and looking better
time to start beating some people

bryce126 · 04-21-2008, 08:08 AM

great attitude in here, bodybuilders have serious commitment above an average lifter, and the attitude shows in other areas of life.

i love this forum

just.demi · 04-21-2008, 09:15 AM

Congratulations on your win...but most of all on your personal growth. It always inspires me when people humble themselves after feeling disappointed. Success comes from the self-discipline and willingness to achieve your personal best. It isn't easy. Everyone who gets up on stage is a winner in my book!

Stay inspired,
Eleni

Quote:

Originally Posted by thaibodybuilder

It's been about 48 hours since the end of my competition @ the 2008 Stingrey Classic Bodybuilding Show in Honolulu, Hawaii. I'd like to first and foremost, congratulate all that participated in the show. It takes a lot to decide to compete on stage, and I applaud everyone that was apart of it.

Many of my friends and family who weren't able to make it to the show, have talked to me since then and have asked "So , how'd it go? "

I respond with, "My opinion, or the judges opinion?" :->

Those who made it to the show, have told me "Congraluations for getting 3rd place!"

...I fake smile trying to cover up a cringe.

I remember before going on stage that night (with prejudging over and done with) I told myself, I refuse to let any judge determine how satisfied I am with myself. I have worked hard. I have made lots of sacrifices. I have made improvements since my last year of competition. I am in the best shape of my life. I deserve to be here. I have incredible friends that have been there during the entire journey to support and encourage me through the best and worst times. I have people in the audience that are cheering my name. This is my moment. I'm going to enjoy it.

..."And coming in third place is.... ______ (my name) "

And I step on stage with the most convincing smile I can muster, while my friends cheered for me at the top of their lungs.

Simply put, I was pissed. I felt disgusted with the competition. Completely disappointed. The "bulk" look has prevailed over leaner and tighter conditioning. I failed to mention, that me being a bantamweight, had been combined with the lightweight class, which meant those against me, were already at nearly a 10lb advantage.

I step off stage, go straight for the jug of ice water, followed by 3 creme puffs, I decide to head outside, grab the nearest food item (I got my hands on a jumbo cheese dog on a white bun with onions and chilli all over) and retreat to my room to sulk. I order 2 large pizzas from Papa Johns. I am never going to do a bodybuilding competition again! I think to myself.

Let's be real. The NPC circuit by nature, seems to judge favorably on mass over conditioning. And whether presentation even has any weight in their decision, who only knows. I'm not going to complain about the standards they have set, when it was ME who decided to enter already knowing what they were looking for. I'm also not going to pretend that to be competitive in this sport, many decide to use alternative methods to acheive that edge, and its simply something I am not willing to do. So, if you're already reading this and thinking, "no sh**" you should have known better, than maybe I don't know who I was trying to fool...

It's been a few days since the show has ended. I'm in a much better state of mind to think clearly. The bottomline is this. Bodybuilding to me, is more than just getting on stage and competing. Bodybuilding has transformed my life. I am not longer that skinny, weak 115 scrawny asian kid. I've added a significant of muscle to my body since I started. I gained an inner confidence I never had while growing up. Bodybuilding has taught so much. I've gained an incredible amount discipline and willpower. I know all about how to manage my time. I have a huge pain tolerance and I can function under stress. I know all about food, diet, supplementation, and how to exercise. I have already achieved, what many will never acheive. There is so much to be thankful for, yet for the past two years I have become so consumed with competition, that I put so much weight into "the next show" and how I would place, that I lost sight for a second why I love bodybuilding so much.

After stepping off stage that night, with my cold and sour attitude, while holding my unappreciated 3rd place trophy, someone who I didn't even know stopped me in the lobby. "Hey, I've been keeping up with you on bodybuilding.com. You really inspired me in so many ways. Can I take a picture with you?" At the moment, I didn't think much of it. But now looking back, wow, that was cool.

I know this experience competing in the NPC circuit was a huge reality check for me. Even in the novice division, I am going to have to work that much harder to even be in the game. Unfortunately the natural scene is non-existant here. I'll leave you guys with this note. Don't ever forget that although this sport is designed to compare you to the next guy (literally), remember to stand tall , be confident, remind yourself of the hard work you put in, and if you did all that you could do to have trained, and dieted to get on stage, you are truly a winner! Only you can judge yourself. And don't let anyone else tell or make you feel otherwise.

As for me and my future competition plans... well, that is to remain a secret. It's longsleeve shirts and long pants to the gym here on out. And I do warn you, that when/if you guys see me on stage again, plan to be amazed. = )

Enjoy pictures taken with my friend Monica the day of competition.

Thanks for reading everyone!

thaibodybuilder · 04-21-2008, 09:24 AM

thanks guys!

spirit3530 · 04-22-2008, 02:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thaibodybuilder

It's been about 48 hours since the end of my competition @ the 2008 Stingrey Classic Bodybuilding Show in Honolulu, Hawaii. I'd like to first and foremost, congratulate all that participated in the show. It takes a lot to decide to compete on stage, and I applaud everyone that was apart of it.

Many of my friends and family who weren't able to make it to the show, have talked to me since then and have asked "So , how'd it go? "

I respond with, "My opinion, or the judges opinion?" :->

Those who made it to the show, have told me "Congraluations for getting 3rd place!"

...I fake smile trying to cover up a cringe.

I remember before going on stage that night (with prejudging over and done with) I told myself, I refuse to let any judge determine how satisfied I am with myself. I have worked hard. I have made lots of sacrifices. I have made improvements since my last year of competition. I am in the best shape of my life. I deserve to be here. I have incredible friends that have been there during the entire journey to support and encourage me through the best and worst times. I have people in the audience that are cheering my name. This is my moment. I'm going to enjoy it.

..."And coming in third place is.... ______ (my name) "

And I step on stage with the most convincing smile I can muster, while my friends cheered for me at the top of their lungs.

Simply put, I was pissed. I felt disgusted with the competition. Completely disappointed. The "bulk" look has prevailed over leaner and tighter conditioning. I failed to mention, that me being a bantamweight, had been combined with the lightweight class, which meant those against me, were already at nearly a 10lb advantage.

I step off stage, go straight for the jug of ice water, followed by 3 creme puffs, I decide to head outside, grab the nearest food item (I got my hands on a jumbo cheese dog on a white bun with onions and chilli all over) and retreat to my room to sulk. I order 2 large pizzas from Papa Johns. I am never going to do a bodybuilding competition again! I think to myself.

Let's be real. The NPC circuit by nature, seems to judge favorably on mass over conditioning. And whether presentation even has any weight in their decision, who only knows. I'm not going to complain about the standards they have set, when it was ME who decided to enter already knowing what they were looking for. I'm also not going to pretend that to be competitive in this sport, many decide to use alternative methods to acheive that edge, and its simply something I am not willing to do. So, if you're already reading this and thinking, "no sh**" you should have known better, than maybe I don't know who I was trying to fool...

It's been a few days since the show has ended. I'm in a much better state of mind to think clearly. The bottomline is this. Bodybuilding to me, is more than just getting on stage and competing. Bodybuilding has transformed my life. I am not longer that skinny, weak 115 scrawny asian kid. I've added a significant of muscle to my body since I started. I gained an inner confidence I never had while growing up. Bodybuilding has taught so much. I've gained an incredible amount discipline and willpower. I know all about how to manage my time. I have a huge pain tolerance and I can function under stress. I know all about food, diet, supplementation, and how to exercise. I have already achieved, what many will never acheive. There is so much to be thankful for, yet for the past two years I have become so consumed with competition, that I put so much weight into "the next show" and how I would place, that I lost sight for a second why I love bodybuilding so much.

After stepping off stage that night, with my cold and sour attitude, while holding my unappreciated 3rd place trophy, someone who I didn't even know stopped me in the lobby. "Hey, I've been keeping up with you on bodybuilding.com. You really inspired me in so many ways. Can I take a picture with you?" At the moment, I didn't think much of it. But now looking back, wow, that was cool.

I know this experience competing in the NPC circuit was a huge reality check for me. Even in the novice division, I am going to have to work that much harder to even be in the game. Unfortunately the natural scene is non-existant here. I'll leave you guys with this note. Don't ever forget that although this sport is designed to compare you to the next guy (literally), remember to stand tall , be confident, remind yourself of the hard work you put in, and if you did all that you could do to have trained, and dieted to get on stage, you are truly a winner! Only you can judge yourself. And don't let anyone else tell or make you feel otherwise.

As for me and my future competition plans... well, that is to remain a secret. It's longsleeve shirts and long pants to the gym here on out. And I do warn you, that when/if you guys see me on stage again, plan to be amazed. = )

Enjoy pictures taken with my friend Monica the day of competition.

Thanks for reading everyone!

strong post... understood your pain

thickmass · 04-22-2008, 04:41 AM

You're definitely in the best shape ever, without seeing the other placegetters we're in no position to determine if you were ripped off or not.

Great work for getting there and grabbing a trophy though

Ramses195 · 04-22-2008, 08:57 PM

good post man, its not always about winning. The only person you need to worry about beating is yourself. Improving yourself is the only thing that matters. This is what keeps bodybuilders motivated and working hard. Keep up the good work brother!

AFGymRat · 04-23-2008, 02:18 AM

How many competitors was in your class?

thaibodybuilder · 04-23-2008, 05:30 AM

i placed 3rd out of 4

josephinedalton · 04-23-2008, 05:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thaibodybuilder

i placed 3rd out of 4

I feel the pain in placing near the bottom. For the past 3 years, i have been placing in the top and winning some. but finally got a dose of the spirit of "real competition" when I placed 6th of 7 in my own hometown the day after the Olympia. It definitely gave me such motivation that I turned around and won the next regionals 4 weeks later... plus some !

So look at your placing as a springboard for more motivation to conquer your next show.

Good luck.... and remember, don't ever quit !
Cos quitting is what real losers do!

AFGymRat · 04-23-2008, 06:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by thaibodybuilder

i placed 3rd out of 4

Dont worry about it, based on the caliber of show you just competed in I would say you did great. Stay motivated and keep hitting the weights hard!

Vadim Beliaev · 04-23-2008, 06:15 AM

Congrats on doing the show!
It does hurt to place lower than you expected but you have to look at yourself honestly.
You talk about mass game prevailing over conditioning... hmm, well i would understand if you did have some extraordinary conditioning and lost, but in reality you were smooth also bud, look the truth in the eye.
Were the competitors in worse condition than you, HONESTLY?
Sometimes we just like to close our eyes and not look at ourselves objectively.
Its a barrier that has to be passed if you really want to take it to the next level

thaibodybuilder · 04-23-2008, 01:57 PM

i dont think i have any pictures from the prejudging, and i didnt post any pictures from the competition on this thread. sure, i have my opinions, but that wasn't really the point of this post. thanks for your feedback though.

thaibodybuilder · 04-23-2008, 02:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Vadim Beliaev

Congrats on doing the show!
It does hurt to place lower than you expected but you have to look at yourself honestly.
You talk about mass game prevailing over conditioning... hmm, well i would understand if you did have some extraordinary conditioning and lost, but in reality you were smooth also bud, look the truth in the eye.
Were the competitors in worse condition than you, HONESTLY?
Sometimes we just like to close our eyes and not look at ourselves objectively.
Its a barrier that has to be passed if you really want to take it to the next level

when i get some of the pictures back from the line up, ill post them up. : -)

jpiwko · 05-11-2008, 04:48 PM

I am looking to find a contest to compete in. Right now I am no where close to competing but, I have been more so mass building then defining. Anyways... Trying to find an amauture event in hawaii to compete in about 4 to 6 months. But I can't find any events online. I saw that you competed in the stingray classic so I am assuming you are rather versed in the events held in hawaii. Good job with placement. I hope I do similar. I wiegh in at over 250lbs right now. I want to compete at around 190 lbs. ish.