2010 IFBB Half Year Recap

The IFBB kicked off for the first time ever in Mesa, Arizona with the Phoenix Pro. Melvin Anthony (left) the veteran, nailed the show with his classic v-shaped back and conditioning. Melvin Anthony Jr. wins the 2010 IFBB Phoenix Pro. Hidetada Yamagishi (right)caught the eyes of many, although being one of the smaller contestants, Yamagishi fought his way to second place. Hidetada who is sponsored by Gaspari Nutrition plans on entering every show he can this year, which is very uncommon this day in the sport. Yamagishi is a true warrior. Finished (2nd). The next stop was the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio. The Arnold Classic is considered the 2nd biggest show next to Mr. Olympia. The show was highly anticipated awaiting to the MetRx'sstar athlete, Phil Heath's healthy package, and to see if the former Mr. Olympia champ Dexter Jackson would seek his revenge on claiming the top spot again, or if last years winner Kai Greene would defend his title. The show went down to the wire between "The Gift" Phil Heath, and last years champ Kai Greene. Kai came in with a stronger back and powerful legs that snuck by Heath's impressive muscle bellies and conditioning. Flex Magazine took a fan poll on who they thought who won, and "The Gift" won by a land slide. The show left fans wondering if Dexter Jackson's blade dull, and a taste of what to come at this years Mr. Olympia. Within less than a week the Aussie Pro took place with Kai Greene taking another 1st place prize. Roelly Winklaar was the fresh breath of the show claiming 3rd place and a promising future possessing one the most impressive arms in bodybuilding. Next stop was Orlando, Florida hosting the Europa Show of Champions. That warrior Yamagishi I spoke of earlier came in like his boss Rich Gaspari and slayed the competition. Yamagishi was spot on this go around with cannon ball shoulders and paper thin conditioning. Now we are caught up to two weeks ago when the New York Pro took place. Roelly Winklaar stole the show, basically coming out of nowhere as this years 1st place New York Pro champion. The big talk leading up to the show was Dennis Wolf rebounding from the embarrassing finish at last years Mr. Olympia. Dennis still looked to be missing a piece from his equation, he was still too smooth, and lacked the awe of his 2007 Olympia frame. Roelly Winklaar physique was comparable to the hall of famer Flex Wheeler but with twenty pounds more densely layered muscle. It is just unbelievable to think that this is just the 3rd pro show this rookie has competed in. He shined with potential at the Arnold and Aussie, but the judges said his presentation of his body was the only thing holding him back. Roelly spent hours upon hours practicing leading up to the show determined that would not be a factor for this contest. This year so far will be one for the history books, with new stars on the rise, and familiar ones still looking for the formula to take down the champ Jay Cutler later this year in Las Vegas. All I can say is get your popcorn ready and enjoy another exciting year in the IFBB!