FLASH: LaDrissa Bonivel Wins San Jose WPD

[Steve Wennerstrom]

Chicago's LaDrissa Bonivel found her way to San Jose Saturday night to become the 21st automatic qualifier for the Physique Olympia in September. A seventh-place finisher at the Olympia last year, Bonivel earned the win in what was the tightest race among the top five finishers this year as well as in the history of the Pro Women's Physique Division. Bonivel crossed the finish line just one point ahead of Erica Blockman (who is now ranked second in the points qualification series race) with Bonivel scoring 4 and Blockman 5. Then right on their heels came Claire O'Connell and Akane Nigro-Ismeal - both of whom scored 13 points with a judging countback needed to find O'Connell third and Nigro-Ismeal fourth. Incredibly, fifth place was just a breath away, as Tonya Hooker totaled 14 points. It doesn't get much more competitive than that!
The 16-contestant field was heavily weighted with 10 competitors from California. The event took place at the Santa Clara Convention Center and was promoted by Steve O'Brien and George Jackson. The San Jose Pro contest shared the weekend with the Grateful Dead who were also performing in Santa Clara on their farewell tour.

[powergirl]

Thanks Steve. I was really happy to see Claire do so well! Do you know where any pictures are posted?

[carrie ann simmons]

LaDrissa looked amazing.

[FitSprite]

^^^^ Way! I've not seen her look un-amazing! :-)
i love Erika Blockman, too! I'm happy/looking forward to listening to tonight's show w/ her & her sister!

[Rocky3]

any pics of the top 3?