Hi MaxRep,
Trust me, I very much understand not only the depth of information you provided, but the price of it! As for your request to put up picts, I will do so in the next few days- Front and back.
I stand 5'8 and am CURRENTLY ~200lbs, 8-9%bf. I was originally shooting for the top weight of the middle weight division (176lbs goal), but as I have put on more weight (and it is coming on pretty solid), I figure I will likely compete in the light heavy (right up against your buddy). Some people say that I should have a specific goal weight range, but again, since this is my first show, my goal is to look as big, lean, and symetrical as I can. As such, I have not set a particular goal weight.
As much as I plan on winning (otherwise, there is no point), I want to be realistic about going through the prep for my first show. I really want to do the contest prep right, but I also need the experience of my first contest to put things in perspective for my future contests. I guess a particular number for a goal weight is not as important to me as kicking ass in which ever weight division I compete in. If you think this is a messed up mind set, please, call me on it.
As for entering the Novice and open contests, I will take your advice to heart. I was figuring to see how good I looked when time came, and then decide if I would only do the Novice, or both. I honestly thought that it wouldn't be too tough to do 2 prejudgings a few hours apart. I also figured that since in the finals, you can do your final routine once, and have it count for both, I woudl do that. But again, I will take your advice seriously.
In regards to taking the
T4, IGF and p-MGF during the June-Aug cycle, I will do so.
Anyway, again, thanks for your help and knowledge. I really didn't expect someone to take such an interest and express so much information and knowledge. I really do appreciate it.
LA