Body builders compete on post

By Mr. Andrew R McIntyre (Jackson)June 27, 2013

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FORT JACKSON, S.C. -- Fort Jackson's Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation's Fitness Department hosted its third annual Natural Body Building, Physique and Figure Competition, Saturday at the Solomon Center.

Thirteen male and female competitors took the stage to show off their muscles and compete for the title of "Fort Jackson's 2013 Body Builder winner."

"The competitors were awesome," said Pamela Long, fitness program director. "We did not see superficial muscle. We really saw real life definition and development of muscles. You could tell (the competitors) worked really hard."

Competitors competed for an overall score, which led to the highest scoring competitors battling for the title at the end. This year's competitors included Soldiers, Marines, civilians and competitive body builders from the local community.

Teresa Moore, head judge, said the competitors did wonderful, were in excellent shape and seemed excited about fitness, health and wellness.

"It was really fun," said Katelyn Wilson, overall female winner. "I am really glad (FMWR) put this together for us. I have wanted to do this for a while."

Wilson said she is looking forward to making improvements and encourages anyone who is interested in competing to just keep working at it and be consistent.

In the men's category, Staff Sgt. Alexi Agosto, assigned to the 282nd Fort Jackson Army Band, won this year's overall title after going through two years of preparation.

"In 2011, I ran a PT test and got the lowest score you can get before failing the two-mile run," Agosto said.

"I need to change this. My 2012 New Year's resolution was to hit the cardio and workouts hard. "I did a 12-week transformation," he said. "Last year, I (moved) here and saw there was a show going on and said, 'I am in good enough shape.' Turns out, I was not in good enough shape to win the show. So, the competitive streak kicked in, and I said, 'Next year I've got to do better,'"

Agosto beat out six competitors from two separate height and weight categories to win this year's title.

"I feel great, and I have signed up for two more body building competitions," he said. "I think it's something that I am going to try and continue."

Long said she expects to have a bigger and better competition next year with more competitors, assistance from judges and professional body builders.

"I welcome anyone who is interested and wants to get involved to give me a call right now," Long said. "Why not get started for next year?"