Rounding out the top five were Grigori Atoyan and Troy Alves.

Competing twice last year, Anthony fourth at the Atlantic City Pro and 11th at the Olympia. This was in stark contrast from 2008, when he hit the stage on five occasions with all being top 10, and top six in four of the contests.

In the 202 division, Roc Shabazz stood in the winner’s circle and was followed by Ahmad Ahmad, Bola Ojex, Rod Ketchens and Eric Catagnet. As far as women’s bodybuilding goes, the steady Yaxeni Oriquen was named the winner, with Betty Pariso finishing next. Zoa Lindsey (3rd), Jeannie Paparoni (4th) and Dena Westerfield (5th) followed. In the figure division, Mindi Smith was named the winner and was followed by Amy O’Neil, Rosa Maris, Felicia Romero and Jodie Minear. In the fitness category, Julie Palmer placed first, with Tanji Johnson second, Camala Rodriguez third, Oksana Grishina fourth and Brigette Ward fifth.

Just around the corner on March 5 and 6 will be the Arnold Classic, always a huge test for the top competitors in the different categories. Just who decides to come to Columbus, Ohio or concentrate on the Olympia will be interesting in itself, let alone the actual competitions.

In search of her pro card, Moyer went down to Atlanta in November and found the going tough. Competing in a field that included a much deeper and seasoned line-up, she did not place (sharing 16th with 13 other women) in the Figure D Class, which was won by Amy O’Neil.

Moyer has a long career ahead of her and just gaining the experience at the Nationals will assist her as she goes further. She has one NPC-sanctioned win under her belt and that is quite an accomplishment in itself. If she should successfully defend her crown on July 18 in Pennsylvania, that will be a huge boost and career move for Moyer.

This is part of an exclusive series by MuscleSport Mag on the 2009 NPC Bill Grant Classic, for which we are one of the show’s official sponsors. The show will take place on Saturday, July 18 in Allentown, Pennsylvania.