One of these guys doesn't look like the other...
2013 NPC Alaska State Championships
It's not me, although my sheen deserves an honorable mention. As you can see, I "O.P.'d". (Over Pam). It's an easy mistake. The combination of deck stain and cooking spray is a delicate balance. I've since fine tuned my recipe.
But I'm referring to the guy on left of me. His name escapes me, like most names do, I'll call him Joe. Backstage he kept to himself. I didn't notice any competitors talking to him. I asked him if he had competed before, he hadn't. He was soft spoken, humble and didn't appear overly confident. A real good guy. I asked how he came to be here. He said he was impressed by Arnold in high school, and it had been a goal of his since then. He was turning 50 and decided it to go for it. 30 years had passed, and that ambition was still alive. So he went for it. I know that feeling. We all have those.
Our dialogue was short, but I was genuinely impressed with Joe. It was clear that he had done this without anybody to walk him through the process. He had a good physique and could have benefited from a tan, and a little oil, not the whole can. He did his best on the poses. He earned my respect. Here is a guy who had the onions to commit to doing something that probably scared the hell out of him, because he didn't want to go on wishing he had. He didn't believe it was too late. And he did it alone. I didn't do that. I had a ton of help and encouragement! I asked him if he wanted to compete again. He said "I want to see how I do in this one."
That is one reason why I am inspired by this sport/lifestyle. It gives Average Joes like us an opportunity to step up to the challenge to become the best physical versions of ourselves. Old or young, fat or skinny, the opportunity is there for anyone who wants to go for it. I did my first show when I was 37. One guy who placed over me was in his 50's. There are men and women who take the stage in their 60's and 70's. It has taught me that growing older, doesn't have to mean growing weaker.
As a side note, the kid who took first in my weight class last year was 18 or 19 I believe. Backstage he complimented me by saying, "Dang dude, how old are you? I don't know how you old guys do it! You are like my Dad, he's in awesome shape too!" My first thought, I won't say. My second thought was, "Old guy?" Then I realized he was half my age. I guess it wasn't too far off. Thanks sport! I accept the compliment.
As for Joe, he didn't place too high that night. I hope he felt the victory over self like I did my first show. I hope to see him at an upcoming show.