240.. Shawn made the mistake of announcing who will be at the Show, from the athletes that in January wrote down what shows they were doing in 2006. Stupid me, I did it my first year also. What I have learned is, most put down everyshow (except maybe the top 5) then wait & see if the qualify at the Arnold or if they are in shape.
I have recently contacted the IFBB & it is way to early to know who is coming. The contracts are not due until 2 weeks before the show. So as a promoter that can be frustrating. But we have had....so far more competitors on stage than any other show in the World. We had over 100 IFBB Pro's on stage last year.
As a Promoter I know exactly what this show provides...I know some people talk about the lack of prize money, but that is climate of Pro BB currently. What the real prize for the Athletes is, the trip to the big show. Branch got to step on stage at the O, because of this show, & so did Quincy. They both have thanked me to many times to count.
This sport... is what it is...we all want it better, but for me & some, their is more to it than just the money.
23,000 athletes in the NPC compete for a plastic trophy...or then again maybe they compete because they choose to particpate and the thrill that comes with stepping on stage.
I still think stepping on stage is one of the hardest & yet most satisfying accomplishments that any 1st,4th or 10th tier person could do.
Betty & I started promoting out of our pocket to give something back to the athletes, maybe it isn't alot of money right now, but I can give 12 of them (inlcluding the Pro Women) their dream of stepping on the Olympia stage. This is why Betty and I are Promoters.
Ed
