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Post by Tim Wescott on Dec 8, 2003 15:43:00 GMT -5
I just heard that the winner of the next Master`s Olympia will no longer qualify to compete in the regular Mr. Olympia contest.Shawn Ray said that this decision was due in part to the past Master`s winners not really breaking into the top 10 of the regular contest.I think this sucks, and if they win the Master`s O, they should be allowed to compete no matter what the outcome.I know for myself that even if I placed dead last, I would have the distinction of being able to say that I stood on stage with the best bodybuilder`s that the world has to offer.Tough break for the older contestants once again!!
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Post by GerryT on Dec 9, 2003 11:02:46 GMT -5
Just heard about this, Tim. Where does it end? And where is the incentive for the top masters athletes to compete? Any time opportunities are taken away, it is detrimental to the athlete.
Masters Nationals only qualifies overall 40+ to IFBB pro shows including Masters O. So now Masters O athletes would have to place in an open pro event to qualify for the O. Totally unfair. This could well weaken the quality of Masters O. Why should athletes like Youngblood, Taylor or Groulx do the show anymore?
Seems like they are trying to keep the Olympia lineup as small as possible. First reducing qualification for 04 from top 10 to top 6. Last year, the Toronto and Southwest shows were eliminated. Although Toronto is scheduled for 04.
If athletes don't start speaking up for themselves, chaos will rule in the future.
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Post by Tim Wescott on Dec 9, 2003 12:10:44 GMT -5
I hear you Gerry,and I wouldn`t be surprised if they`re trying to keep the Olympia limited to a certain amount of competitors, so that they don`t have to pay the guy`s that don`t quite make the grade.The IFBB is very stingy when it comes to paying their athletes.To get to the Olympia is quite a feat, and to have the opportunity taken away, will in my opinion, keep a lot of Master`s competitors away from the Nationals, as you said.Not a good thing for the older guy`s who paved the way .
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Post by GerryT on Dec 9, 2003 16:01:28 GMT -5
I think that's the bottom line, Tim. IFBB does pay the airfare and hotel accommodations for the Olympia contestants, so the less that qualify the less expense.
For an organization sitting on so much money, it is shameful. Masters competitors have devoted their lives to this sport and did pave the way by competing in the open competitions. Some still do.
Like getting slapped in the face for your efforts, and that galls me no end.
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