MONCTON, N.B. Tammy Gallant of Summerside had a strong showing here at the recent 29th annual Atlantic Classic physique and figure championships.
Gallant, 41, took home second- and third-place trophies in the new womens figure event.
I was new to the sport, although I have been exercising for 20 years, said Gallant. I began my preparation 10 weeks prior uncertain how my physique would change and progress.
I lost seven pounds, yet got stronger and gained lean muscle! I had such a wonderful experience, backstage the other girls were so helpful and supportive.
I cant wait to get back to the gym to improve for the New Brunswick show in November.
Open to athletes from all four Atlantic provinces, 20 women figure athletes and 30 male bodybuilders competed for $4,000 in cash, prizes and a trip for two to Las Vegas.
Gallant, competing for the first time, claimed her second place in the masters womens figure class, open to women over the age of 35.
Gallant was up against 2005 Atlantic Classic and 2004 New Brunswick figure overall winner Marisa LeBlanc. Gallant displayed great conditioning but was unable to match LeBlanc in muscle and presentation.
Later in the program, Gallant claimed third place in the medium height class for women of any age from five-foot-two to five-foot-four.
Gallant, whose physique, presentation and confidence were improving as the evening progressed, was up against eventual overall winner Rachelle Vienneau. Vienneau, who would be crowned top figure athlete, displayed an overall balanced physique with lean muscle, exceptional posing and presentation.
There are two annual contests that are open to Island male and female athletes of any age. They are held in the spring and the fall in New Brunswick.
