March 1, 2006

Catching Up with Christy Wolfe

Christy Wolfe is one of the best-known figure competitors in Canada, winning her class at the CBBF National World Qualifier last July, and then representing Canada in Spain at the IFBB World Championships in September. And not only is she doing well in figure, she’s also done incredibly well in fitness modeling – her stunning good looks have made her one of the most photographed, and most recognized, competitors in Canada.

Christy’s been traveling since those competitions, but I had a chance to catch up with her by e-mail to see what she is up to, how she felt about last year, and what she has planned for 2006.

Doug Schneider: You had a remarkable competitive year in 2005. You placed third in your class in the Ontario Provincial Championships held in June. You then went on to win your class at the Ontario National Qualifier a week later. And then, after that, you went to Regina and won your class at the CBBF National World Qualifier. How did you feel about last year? Did you achieve all your goals?

Christy Wolfe: Last year was fantastic. It was a long haul having back-to-back competitions, but it worked to my advantage because I didn't have a chance to fall behind in my training.

At the Ontario Provincial Championships, the competition was tough. All of the girls looked fabulous, and they were well conditioned. I was happy to place third; however, this year I'm aiming a little higher.

The Ontario National Qualifier was my first provincial win, so you can imagine how excited I was. I knew I had to head to Regina for the CBBF National World Qualifier – there was nothing stopping me. Winning my class at the World Qualifier was the highlight of my year.

I definitely reached the goals I had set for myself in 2005. I wanted to go to Spain and represent my country, and I did.

DS: At the CBBF National World Qualifier there was a point in the prejudging where the head judge placed you in the center position. When you stood in the center you had a very confident look on your face. Did you feel that you had won at that point in the competition?

CW: You can never tell if you've won for sure until judging is finished and the trophies are given. Girls are always wondering why they weren't called out, or why they were put beside a certain person. It can make you feel very anxious. It's imperative that you look your best during call-outs. One mistake could cost you your placing. When I was centered on stage, I knew I was top-three for that round. The judges didn't move me from my place on the stage, and I knew that was a good sign. At that point I was happy, which can also appear as confidence.

DS: In September, you went off to Spain as part of Team Canada at the IFBB World Figure Championships. Tell us about that experience.

CW: You can never prepare yourself 100 percent for a new experience. The fact I was given the opportunity to represent my country was an honor.

The trip itself started off rocky because my plane was delayed, which caused a missed connecting flight. I ended up in transit for two days. To endure stress during your last couple of days prior to competing is never good. Once relaxed, I was just happy to be there.

The actual show felt like the Olympics. I was overwhelmed by the number of high-caliber competitors from around the world. It was an experience that I will never forget.

I will use everything I learned in Spain to my advantage this year. My plans are to return to Spain for 2006. Now that I have one world-level competition under my belt, I know what they are looking for.

DS: What most people don't know is that after you went to Spain you didn't come home – you went traveling instead, and you're still traveling. Tell us where you went, and where you are right now.

CW: After Spain, I traveled a bit in Europe. I made my way from Spain to France, then to Belgium. After Europe, I headed to Thailand where I spent a month backpacking. I trekked for four days through the rain forest/jungle, and I spent my nights with the hill tribes. The scenery was breathtaking, and the culture was nothing like I have ever seen. The islands in southern Thailand are beautiful. I spent most of my time there enjoying the wonderful tropical weather.

I flew from Bangkok to Melbourne, Australia, in November, and I have been traveling by van across the country since. I have seen most of Australia, including the Outback. I'll have to make a second trip to see the west coast, and New Zealand. Presently, I am in New South Wales, and I'll be heading to Melbourne to fly to Canada on March 1. My plan is to stop in Hawaii for one week, then spend three weeks in British Columbia visiting my mom and some friends. It has been an amazing adventure.

DS: You spent Christmas away this year. How was that?

CW: It was the first time I actually missed the snow! It wasn't the same at all, and I have to admit I was feeling a little homesick during the holidays. I still had a turkey dinner (cooked a turkey for the first time myself!), and I spent Christmas Day surfing – so I guess overall it wasn't that bad. Australia is a nice place to be at any time of the year.

DS: Have you managed to stay in good shape while you’re traveling? Have you been training regularly?

CW: It has been difficult to train regularly, since I am always on the go. I have joined a couple of gyms for one week here and there, but I'm never in one place for too long. I usually get up in the morning and go for a run on the beach, and surfing is great exercise as well. I'm behind in my weight training, though, but when I return in April and hit the gym again, I'll shock my body. It may sound silly but I miss my regular training, and I can't wait to return to my daily routine.

DS: Even though you're not coming back until the beginning of April, I understand you're still planning on competing in 2006. What competitions do you plan to take part in this year, and what are your goals?

CW: I plan on competing at the CBBF Canadian Figure Championships in Edmonton. I also plan to compete at the Ontario Provincial Championships, the Ontario National Qualifier, and the CBBF National World Qualifier – and then, hopefully, on to the World Championships in Spain. My main goal is to place in at least the top ten in Spain. After having six months off, my body is craving discipline. I'm hoping to look my best ever this year.

DS: Who are the other figure competitors whom you admire most?

CW: My fellow competitor and friend, Sandra Kies, is the person I admire the most. She always looks beautiful, she has grace and class, and she is always friendly to everyone else backstage. When we compete together the atmosphere seems more relaxed. I'm very competitive, but she's the one person I don't mind placing second to. I hope to see her onstage this year.

DS: You've done a lot of fitness-type modeling, and I believe you're one of the most photographed competitors in Canada right now. Can we look forward to seeing more photos of Christy in 2006?

CW: Doug, you know me – I’m always game for pictures. My plans are to get my website up and going this year, so watch for it!

DS: Finally, imagine that you're talking to a person who is thinking about competing for the first time. What advice could you give her?

CW: Believe in yourself, and stay focused. It doesn't matter how everyone else looks; you’re doing this for yourself. Be proud of how far you have come.

DS: Thanks, Christy.

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