It began as the NPC California Collegiates back in 1999, with but 27 competitors--14 male and 13 female bodybuilders. But the fella who won, Charles Ray Arde, eventually went on to earn pro status. That was the beginning of big things to come for the show, promoted by Lonnie Teper, Editor-at-Large at IRON MAN Magazine.
The contest evolved into the Western Collegiates, then grew into the Junior Cal. In 2010, after being granted national qualifier status, the West Coast Classic was born. It went from 80 competitors the year before, to 140 in 2010. Last year competitor totals expanded to 175 (233 with crossovers); currently, numbers are running ahead of last season for this year's version, set for this Saturday, June 23, at Rosemead High School (www.npcwestcoast.com). Prejudging is 11 am, finals at 6 pm sharp.
The quality has grown with the totals. Last year five competitors from the WCC went on to finish in the top five at the USA. One, Narmin Assria, who won the Bikini A division, did likewise at the USA and now competes on a pro stage. Two other athletes won their class at the Masters Nationals. Another, Vida Guerra, who made her NPC bikini debut at the WCC last season, finished third in her class in at the 2011 Nationals, and just won her pro card with a class win at the Junior Nationals, held in Chicago this past weekend.
Several outstanding competitors have entered the 2012 version, including Jeremy Patterson, perhaps more known as the "guy in the Muscle Tech ads) than for his titles on stage, Monty Rogers and other standouts from all over the country.
Jay Cutler, who has guest posed many times over the years, won't be able to do his routine this time around due to biceps surgery earlier in the year. But, the four-time Mr. Olympia has a booth at the show to meet and greet the fans, and will speak to the crowd on stage about his injury, his new supplement line, and if he will be competing in this year's Mr. Olympia. Pro bodybuilder Jerome (Hollywood) Ferguson will be doing his famous "Who Let the Dogs Out?" routine.
Tickets are available at the door, on a first come, first serve basis. Any question, call 626-665-7000.
