Written by John Romano
27 August 2008
You read that right. MD now has a pro bodybuilding contest to call its own. It was a no-brainer that one day, after years of anticipation, we would be the title sponsor of a major East Coast pro bodybuilding show and it doesn't get any better than this. First of all, co-promoters Stokley Palmer and Ron Goldstein really know how to put on a show! Everything with these guys is top notch. From the venue, to the hotel, to the parties before and after, these guys know what it means to throw down! Last year they had this incredible dinner party for the judges, sponsors and the press at the Taj Mahal the night before the show. It was such a first-class affair you forgot there was a bodybuilding show the next day!

This year, it's being held at the even more opulent and easily accessible Trump Marina Casino Hotel right on the Atlantic City boardwalk. So bring your bathing suit! In addition to the killer beach and mini Vegas atmosphere that even includes 24-hour room service, the show itself is stacked. In addition to an important Olympia-qualifying pro bodybuilding event that will see appearances by such sought-after notables as Melvin Anthony, Desmond Miller, Toney Freeman, Darrem Charles, Gustavo Badell, Craig Richardson and last year's champ, Johnnie Jackson.. . .  we'll also see the return of Vince The Prince Taylor in the Masters Pro Show. And perhaps the most anticipated event of all will be the auspicious return of IFBB superstar Lee Priest to the stage as he tries to qualify for the Olympia!  

But there is more here than pro bodybuilding. Much more. The event starts Friday, September 12 and includes the IFBB Pro Fitness and Pro Figure championships,  Masters Pro Bodybuilding and Pro Figure Championships, NPC National Qualifiers in bodybuilding and figure, and finally a Wheelchair Invitational. We are even having the first-annual Pro Tan model search! This will undoubtedly be one of the most action-packed contest weekends of the season. And, of course, MD will be bringing you all the coverage we are famous for-- prejudging and finals play-by-play, Internet updates, and a constant stream of photos and video interviews while they happen.

Better yet, jump on a plane, or in your car and get your butt there! Tickets are available by calling Ticketmaster at 800-736-4052 or online at www.ticketmaster.com. For any additional information call 407-342-4052 or 732-261-8713. Hotel reservations can be made by calling the Trump Marina Hotel Casino at 800-777-1177 or online at trumpmeetings.com (refer to group code BSPORTS) I'll see you at the beach!