When Yaxeni Oriquen took to the stage at the Phoenix Pro accompanied by Marilyn Manson's menacing rendition of the Eurhythmics' ‘Sweet Dreams' there was little doubt in anyone's mind that the former Ms Olympia was back and ready to reclaim her crown!
Prowling the stage like a panther she sent an eerie chill of anticipation through the crowd...if this was just the start of her return what would she bring to the competition come the final showdown?
The fact that she walked away with first place that night was no surprise and as she prepares herself to do battle at this weekend's Arnold Classic I thought it was time to get to know this ‘warrior queen' a little better...
So, first of all, when did you start to get involved in bodybuilding and who would you say inspired you the most at that time?
"My interest in the sport of bodybuilding began when I was nineteen. I always felt very skinny and wanted to find a way to strengthen my body, so bodybuilding was an obvious choice. I have to say that my inspiration at the time came from Anja Langer, I loved the way she had the perfect combination of muscle and femininity."
How do you think today's champions compare to those women?
"In my opinion the female bodybuilders of that era cannot be compared to those of today,
they were much softer and a lot more delicate, today we are fully developed athletes."
How do you find the general public reacts to your physique?
"Overall the public reaction to my physique is very positive. I would have to say that most of the time the reaction is very favorable. Of course you always get some people who disapprove but they are generally in the minority."
The disapproval probably comes from those who do not understand why a woman would wish to have a more muscular body. In this respect, when it comes to competition these days, do you think that women are being pushed too far beyond their natural limits when it comes to gaining muscle?
"I do feel that women are being pushed into being bigger and bigger when, in my mind, there should be more of a harmonious balance. We have to keep in mind that we are still women and should not put ourselves at risk by making permanent changes to our bodies."
How would you like female bodybuilders to be perceived?
"I just want people to understand that we are women first and bodybuilders by choice and profession. We have regular lives, families and social interactions...we are just like everyone else!"
When it comes to the judging, what do you think the judges are looking
for right now?
"Only God and the judges know the answer to this. Every year I have been asking myself that same question. I can go back as far as 1994 and my pro debut and recall asking myself ‘what are they (the judges) looking for?
Even now, after winning every show there is, I still don't have a clear answer..."
Who do you see is your greatest rivals at this point in time?
"I always consider myself to be my greatest rival. The physique I presented last year is what I have to measure up against this year. In this respect I am confident that by working hard and listening to my husband and trainer, Tomas Garcia, I can soar to incredible heights."
You just took the title at the Phoenix Pro....now was that show always in your plans for this year or was it a late decision on your part as your entry certainly took a few people by surprise...
"This is a new show and when my husband and I saw the 2010 calendar we immediately felt it was a great opportunity for a final rehearsal before the Arnold. Perhaps some people did not want me to enter.....lol, and indeed they got surprised!"
Do you plan to do any other shows this year before the Olympia?
‘Currently I have no plans to enter any additional shows prior to the Olympia; however, should God instill that curiosity in me....I might just go with it, who knows!"
Where is your focus going to be when it comes to preparing for your next Olympia? What areas do you feel you need to work on the most?
"I need to put all of my focus on making the most of my off season and making improvements where I feel they may be needed."
In terms of diet, what kind of macro-nutrient breakdown do you follow?
"My diet is pretty simple, just low on carbs with good fats from fish and fresh fruits and vegetables."
I notice in previous interviews you have said that you use soy protein, is this still the case as some consider it to be an inferior protein source?
"I do use Soy protein, though I have to say that I am not a great fan of shakes in general. I prefer to rely on actual meals..."
How do you split up your body parts over the course of a training week?
"I work-out twice a day, one or two muscles per session, high intensity and heavy weight. I usually train Monday thru Saturday but if my body calls for it I may rest on Wednesday."
Away from the competition stage you have expressed a desire to become more involved in movies...what are your hopes in that respect?
"This has certainly been an interest of mine since a very early age. Before I became involved in
bodybuilding I modeled and studied Art and Theatre for five years, while working on Television shows in Venezuela."
You have described yourself as "organized, disciplined and strict" and also admitted that you have a temper sometimes. What does it take to trigger that temper?
"I am extremely organized and strict, mostly with myself. I have to be in order to juggle my career and family and be successful and productive in both. I have rules I follow and this helps me focus and achieve my goals. The people who are close to me, my friends and my family, respect these decisions.
The fact that I am so organized helps me control my temper. I am a lady and do not tolerate any kind of disrespect. Fortunately my faith has also helped me control this temper and overcome any difficulties it may present. However, despite my rules, I am very affectionate and helpful. I love doing anything in my power to help others."
What would you say is the most valuable lesson you have learned over the years when it comes to your training and diet?
"That is simple...eat well during the off season and always begin your dieting on time! If you retain your focus during the off season and control what you eat this will not only save you a lot of time when it comes to dieting but will also help you gain quality size."
And personally, what ‘life lesson' would you like to share with others?
"Find God and spirituality within yourself. Listen carefully and avoid excuses. If you feel there is a task at hand, tackle it don't put it off...just do it!"
If you could re-visit yourself on the day of your very first contest what advice would you like to pass on to your younger self?
"I would tell myself to choose an Olympic discipline instead; this way my country (Venezuela) would have many more medals!"
Finally...what are your hopes and dreams for the future inside and outside of the sport?
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