2016 NPAA Magazine 2016 - Volume 1 | Page 6

A tribute to CHUCK THOMPSON, the body building iron man The NPAA and its membership would like to congratulate Chuck Thompson on achieving his 100th bodybuilding competition. Your diligence and perseverance set a great example of inspiration, motivation and effort! We are grateful to have you in our fitness family and can’t wait to witness you achieve new milestones. Who is Chuck Thompson? I am single and work full time as a teacher with the Edmonton Public Schools. I was born and raised in Edmonton and have lived there all of my life. Chuck can you tell us when you started this journey and a little about where you have competed? I have been involved in sports all my life and have competed in gymnastics, running, and bodybuilding. I started my bodybuilding journey in 1977 and have had the opportunity in my 100 shows to travel all across North America competing. I have competed in many federations and met some of the “greats” in the bodybuilding world. I am a lifetime natural athlete and love what I have achieved. 3. When did you complete your 100th show? In 2015 I achieved the goal of 100 shows. I have spoken to the various natural organizations and have asked that my competitor number be the same as my contest number. Then my next goal will be 110 shows. What is next for Chuck Thompson? In 2017, I turn 64 and I need to do at least 1 show this year in order to keep my streak alive. I competed for the first time at age 24, and then did shows when I was 34, 44, and 54 as well. This will mark my 40th year as a competitive bodybuilder and 47 years since I started training. What advice do you have for other athletes in this sport? I strongly believe in the quote below and am proud of this lifetime journey: “It is called Bodybuilding for a reason. It’s a marathon of a sport. Consistency and longevity are key. Success and results do not come overnight rather over days turning into months and years. There is a reason it is not called Bodybuilt. Lifetime journey of progress and pursuit of a better you.”