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Published on Tuesday, 12 October 2010 20:56
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Written by Rob Rosetti
Determined, Focused & Hungry For An IFBB Pro Card
Meet The Pride Of The Northwest
National Bikini Athlete Diana Graham
Story & Photographs By Rob Rosetti
One wouldn't think that the upper northwest of our country would be an area rich in NPC Bikini talent. After all, the weather is cold for most of the year and the actual bikini season is a tad on the short side. Ironically, the Northwest is beginning to get the reputation as a hot bed for NPC Bikini talent.IFBB Pro Angela Leong resides in Oregon and NPC newcomer Diana Graham is from Seattle, WA. Diana, a mother of one and step mother of two more is on a serious role. In just the past month, Diana has racked up an Open Overall Bikini win in a National Qualifying show in her home state and just this past weekend took the overall title at the very competitive NPC Eastern USA a Championships in NYC. This young girl has truly become a coast to coast champion. I had the opportunity to photograph Diana in Daytona Beach, FL. a few weeks ago and she took to the camera like a seasoned Pro. Her goal is quite simple. She wants a Pro Card. After seeing her train with the intensity that can only be described as amazing and the way she worked the camera, I would have to say that whatever this girl wants she is going to get. Diana's next contest will be Nationals in Atlanta this weekend. She won't be difficult to notice. With her great look and beautfull physique, she might just be the one standing in the middle of the podium when they take that class win picture.
Here is her exclusive Rx Girl interview:
1. Birth PlaceMinot AFB, ND2. Current ResidenceSeattle, WA3. Your TrainerTeam Bombshell4. When did you get interested in competing in NPC Bikini?In 2009 when they introduced the division5. When did you start competing? What shows have you done and how did you do?
I started competing in Fitness is 2006. That year I won my height class at The Emerald Cup and the overall at The Empire Classic. In 2009 I competed at The Emerald Cup where I placed first in my division. In 2010 I competed in Bikini at The Vancouver Natural where I placed 6th. After starting training with Team Bombshell, I competed at The Night of Champions winning the overall, The Ironman placing 2nd in my division, and The Eastern USA's winning the overall.
6. What part of competing do you like best?Being on stage. I love the presentation and performance side of things. The sport, and sisterhood between the ladies is pretty special too!7. What part of competing do you like least?
Negative or discouraging thoughts that can sometimes creep up when you are tired.
8. If you weren't competing in Bikini, what would you be competing in?
I ran a marathon this past summer, so ANYTHING is possible!
9. Describe your typical day.Wake up early. Get my AM cardio out of the way. Shower, eat, and get the kids up for school. After dropping them off, I go to the gym to do my
weight workout. Then back home to do chores, catch up on emails, and do any errands that need to be done. At 3 it's time to pick up the kids so I try to get all my workouts in before then. Once the kids are home it's homework, making dinner, and family time. After putting the kids to bed I pack my food up for the next day and get my things together and spend
quality time with the husband.
10. Hows your support system? Do you feel that a good support system is essential for success or do you think success is inherent and anyone can do it all on their own?
My support system is strong! My parents laid a great foundation by teaching me the value of hard work and dedication. They continue to stand behind me and encourage me. My husband is awesome! He often works 12 hours a day only to come home and help out with anything that is falling behind or overwhelming. Our three kids are great! They sometimes have to come to the gym with me or to the track or park to play while I
get a workout in. They never complain! I am also fortunate that our ex spouses are so flexible and willing to pick up any slack when I have to travel or need an extra hand with the kids! Plus we live next to my in
laws and that is an invaluable addition to the support I get. As far as success being inherent, I think anyone can be as successful as they want to be. Some people are just blessed to be inherently determined to succeed and that definitely helps! That's me, but even with that I've had to learn the power of positive thinking, trying again, and asking
for help when I need it.11. Who in the sport serves as role models for you?SO many! Vanessa Campbell because she's so positive! Tanji Johnson because
she's so passionate. Nicole Nagrini because at 18 she sure has her head on straight. Jamie Baird, Jessica Jesse, and Ali Rosen are on the top of my list too!
12. Who in the IFBB Bikini ranks do you think your body most resembles?Honestly I have no idea! I think my body is a work in progress and I am not sure we've found that magic spot yet! You would have to ask my coaches! They probably see my body with clearer eyes.13. What's your goals in the sport?Turn pro! Compete at the highest level.14. Anyone you would like to thank?My coaches, my teammates, my family, and God!15. What's up next for you?Nationals. Then a week vacation in Disneyworld with my family!
