MUSCLE BEACH INTERNATIONAL CLASSIC
MEMORIAL WEEKEND

The roar of the C-17 Globemaster Flyover from March Air Force Base brought the crowd at Muscle Beach to their feet. Cheering and waving as the HUGE plane flew overhead. The beginning of the event was spectacular to say the least.

With opening remarks from the City of Los Angeles District Superintendent Sophia Pinacortez and Mark Antonio Grant, representative for Bill Rosendahl, 11th District Councilmen, the meaning of Memorial Day was acknowledged with comments by Colonel Kenneth Allison from the Los Angeles Air Force Base. Colonel Allison’s observations of the dedication and strength of the United States Armed Forces were moving. Seven new recruits were inducted by Colonel Allison and their service to the country was noted.

The event was hosted by HeadBlade and included a Fit Expo of health and fitness vendors. Special thanks to Bodybuilding.com, Burn Machine, House of Pain, Mind Over Matter, Big Arm Clothing, Krossbelts, Gold’s Gym, Gaspari Nutrition, Fit Gum, Private Trainers Association, Oxyboost H20, and many others who provided samples and giveaways for the swarm of visitors from the Boardwalk.

The first Armed Forces Cup was won by Navy crewman Norman Reyes. A proud group, from all branches, was on hand to applaud his victory.

With fond memories and expressions of appreciation, the Muscle Beach Venice Bodybuilding Hall of Fame inducted the late Reg Park into the Class of 2008. Jon Jon, Reg’s son, was at the event to accept the award on his father’s behalf. Reg will be deeply missed, his contribution to the sport of bodybuilding is world renown.

The winners of the events include:

• Dawn Michael Thomas – Overall Women’s Bodybuilding
• Anu McKnight  - Overall Novice Men’s Bodybuilding
• James Scott – Overall Open Men’s Bodybuilding
• Sheanni Vanderbilt – Overall Novice Figure
• Laura Bailey – Overall Open Figure

The StarTrac Posing Award was given to Anu McKnight.

On Sunday, following the pre-judging of the bodybuilding and figure, the first ever amateur boxing event was held at Muscle Beach – THE RUMBLE IN VENICE.  Eleven bouts of excellent boxing, sponsored by ProFight Supplements, kept the crowds in awe. The bleachers were packed with cheering fans and standing room only became the standard of the day.

The “Navy Destroyers” rock band from the San Diego Naval Base played concerts both days. A group of six active service personnel had the fans dancing and playing along as only can happen at Muscle Beach Venice.

Joe Wheatley Productions would like to give special thanks to the judges and the support personnel who made this event one of the BEST EVER at Muscle Beach Venice.

please click here to view the standings