TO: IFBB BODYBUILDERS

RE: Changes regarding qualifying for the Olympia


As a result of our recent IFBB Committee meeting that was held during the Olympia weekend, I'm sure many of you have heard through the grapevine that there are going to be changes regarding the qualifying spots for the Olympia. Here is the basic information that was voted on that will affect ALL IFBB ATHLETES AND ALL DIVISIONS.


# (1) QUALIFYING SPOTS FOR THE OLYMPIA

Olympia - (3) Top three places qualify for the next Olympia.
Arnold - (3) Top three places qualify for the Olympia.
All Other Shows - (1) First place ONLY qualifies for the Olympia.

The goal is to only have around 12 or so competitors on stage for each division. If the desired number is not met due to the lack of shows for competitors to compete in, then a committee will issue a special invitation to the next most qualified competitor(s) to increase the number. (The number of times an athlete has competed at other shows and placed 2nd or 3rd will be weighed heavily)


REASONS FOR THE CHANGE:

1. So that the best 12 or so competitors in the world are standing on the Olympia stage.

2. So that all shows, other than the Arnold and the Olympia have a chance to get more of the top competitors in their line up. We are losing shows every year due to the lack of ticket sales and attendance.

3. Financial...The Olympia has been affected tremendously from so many competitors qualifying and the spiraling costs of paying for all these athletes takes its toll on the budget. It also has taken away some of the prestige of the having the best 12 or so competitors on the Olympia stage.



# (2) ATHLETE CONTRACT

Four (4) weeks out from any given show, the athlete must have their contract signed
or they will pay a $200 fine that goes to the promoter and is not negotiable.

REASON FOR CHANGE:

1. This will allow the promoter to use the list of athletes competing for advertising and publicity purposes.



# (3) SHOW FINALS PARTICIPATION

There will be a $1,000 Fine paid to the promoter for any competitor who does not
show up for the Finals.

The athlete will not be allowed to compete again at any show until the fine is paid.


REASON FOR CHANGE:

1. Not only is this poor sportsmanship, usually because the competitor didn't like the way the prejudging went, but in some cases it takes away the chances of another competitor getting to pose, and inconveniences the expediting of the event.


I hope this helps clarify the decisions that have been made, and I encourage each of you to check the official IFBB web site for complete details and information for the coming year of competitions.

Please feel free to contact me if you have additional questions.


Betty Pariso
IFBB Representative