I once wrote an extensive article about "Why natural bodybuilders Cannot Succeed in the IFBB".  This article has received a lot of  recognition and is often quoted in various websites. The article stood unchallenged for several years until I received a message from Yenny Polanco, a Figure and Fitness Athlete who is breaking down barriers and doing it naturally.

To look into the eyes of Yenny Polanco is to see the embodiment of determination, a woman who is the physical expression of assertiveness. Therefore it was no surprise that she would contact me to set the record straight.  Proof that a natural athlete could indeed be successful in the IFBB came in a 5' 2" package yet with enough force to break down any barrier.

I responded to Yenny that I am not embarrassed at being proven wrong but rather I am encouraged by it. How could I lay out a blanket accusation and apply it to all natural athletes? How could I assume that no natural athlete would have the drive, determination and genetics to succeed where others has failed?

Pasted below are excerpts of the dialogue between Yenny and myself in which I am taught a valuable lesson.

"Hi! I am Yenny Polanco. I just read your article on why Natural Athletes could not make it in the IFBB!
Well I am proof that a natural athlete can make it in the IFBB! I am 100% natural, meaning I don't even take fat burners like so many so called 'natural athletes' do!
 My last IFPA show was in June of 2009, and in less then 3 months later I competed in NPC Team Universe in NYC and Won!
I was probably the smallest fitness athlete, but I was in good condition and had a high energy fitness routine. It was a dream come true and a very unexpected victory! Less than a month later I made my IFBB debut in Florida, and not only did I make Top 5!, But I made Top 3! And qualified for the Olympia on my first IFBB show ever! And I did it naturally.

So yes any Fitness or Figure Athlete can make it in the IFBB. But they have to work hard at it, and keep trying. As for me, well my victory was quite ironic, since I looked the softest and less ripped than my normal look."

Part of my response to Yenny was as follows.

"Regarding your letter, I'm glad that you are an exception to the "Why  natural athletes cannot succeed in the IFBB" article. You have an  impressive physique, excellent attitude and its great to know that you  are natural. Thanks for setting me straight or at least letting me know  of exceptions. I'm not offended by being wrong, in fact I'm encouraged  by it."

I continue to remain encouraged.  Over the years I have been privileged to be acquainted with exceptional athletes from all walks of life and yet none of them has put me in my place,,,, until now.

Because of her boundless ambition and commitment to natural fitness, Lift for Life is honored to name Yenny Polanco as Model of the Month.

Lift for Life Model of the Month Yenny Polanco

My motto: "To be my best and try my hardest!"
www.yenny-polanco.com and www.myspace.com/ladydynamite
new: IFBB Fitness Professional Athlete!
NPC Team Universe Fitness Champion 2009. Earned IFBB Pro Status!! 
Figure America 1st place 2008"
LIFETIME NATURAL ATHLETE!