All competitors were asked at weigh-in on Friday to provide a short bio and include anyone they wanted to thank.  I personally didn’t include anyone because limiting it felt futile.  Too many people played a role along the 23 years in which I’ve competed in bodybuilding.  These are the most instrumental in regards to hearing my name announced the winner last night.

 

Jesus Christ for blessing me with the genetics to compete on the highest level of the sport and hard wiring me to thrive in the midst of brutal workouts and strict diets.  I don’t believe He cares so much for whether I win or lose as He does for where I find my true identity - in Him.  His enduring and unmerited mercy, love and grace lavish upon me overflows to my bride and daughters in supernatural ways which are certainly not of my own doing.

 

My bride, Christina Dugdale, who is also my training partner and best friend.  I want to publically confess and repent of the fact that I don’t always ascribe as much of my achievements to the quiet, diligent support she provides outside the spotlight.  Bodybuilder spouses don’t receive the credit they’re due, and Christina is a gift in every sense of the word.  I love you babe!

 

My three daughters Madison, Lauren and Julia for extending me grace during the countless diets they’ve watched me endure.  They are my biggest fans and I look forward to stepping on stage again next month in Vancouver BC with them in attendance!

 

Jim and Carolyn Dugdale (Mom and Dad) who despite some misgivings about bodybuilding remained supportive to their son.  Their commitment to me set an example of what it means to love unconditionally and provides me a template for the type of parent I hope to be to my three girls.

 

My coach, friend and athlete who shared the stage with me last night, John Meadows.  Roughly four years ago I met John at a time when injuries plagued me and my physique was backsliding.  It’s one thing to not win competitions, but when you feel you’re not improving it saps your motivation.  John turned all that around via the genius with which he began programming my workouts.  I simply wouldn’t even continued in the sport without his guidance.

 

My training partners over the years - Seth McGillivray, Chris Cotner and Greg Jones.  There’s something special about sharing the struggle against the iron with other men and I’m deeply blessed to count each of you as friends and brothers.

 

Tim Patterson, CEO of Biotest and Testosterone Nation, for providing me the financial means by which to pursue my zeal for the iron.  Sponsorships are great, but rarely is the company’s products reflective of the quality and efficacy with which an athlete can unashamedly endorse.  Biotest meets that standard making my affiliation priceless.

 

David Tate, CEO of Elitefts, for bring me into the their family of athletes.  For a site predominantly focused on powerlifting, I feel fortunate as one of a few bodybuilders to be on their team.  Dave’s heart, integrity and (Live - Learn - Pass On) philosophy permeates everything he does.  I’m grateful for the uncensored writing and training blog platform he provides me.

 

Marilyn Spatola of Liquid Sun Rayz for her friendship and ensuring I always have access to the best stage color in the industry.  LSR is hands down the best competition color I’ve ever used.

Finally, the late Joe and Ben Weider who pioneered and founded the IFBB.  I consider myself fortunate to have met both men and to share as a beneficiary of their hard work and legacy.  This statement isn’t complete without mentioning the man who now carries the torch and is largely responsible for the vast expansion of bodybuilding and fitness on a global scale - Jim Manion.  Thank you for the nod back in 2004 as my overall NPC USA win ushered in the opportunities I now enjoy in the IFBB.