IRIS KYLE 2007 Ms. Olympia *photograph courtesy of Weider Publication

IRIS KYLE
The Bodybuilder, the Woman
3x Ms. Olympia
3x Ms. International

Iris Kyle was born on August 22, 1974 in Benton Harbor, Michigan; the second youngest of six siblings (four brothers and one sister).

Iris attended Benton Harbor High and continued her education at Alcorn State University in Lorman, Mississippi, where she received her Associates Degree, majoring in Business Administration and minoring in Accounting. In the pursuit of opportunities in the Health and Fitness industry, Iris relocated to Orange County, California. She now resides in Houston, Texas.

When asked about her athletic background, Iris exclaims, "You name it; I’ve played it … or at least tried to play it!" Iris continues, "I’ve always led a fit, healthy lifestyle from an early age; running cross-country for cardiovascular fitness [which was the key to staying in shape during the off-season she exclaims] and playing Basketball and Softball." In actual fact, Iris may be understating somewhat her athletic prowess and accomplishments. During her high-school years, she was a three-time All-State, All-American point guard in Basketball and named "Fastest Shortstop" in Softball. Because of her outstanding athletic abilities, Iris received numerous offers from various colleges.

Iris’ move to the west coast placed her smack dab in the middle of health-and-fitness conscious California and the abundance of fitness gyms, health clubs and wellness centers that dotted the landscape throughout the Golden State. Constantly surrounded by fit, healthy-looking people, Iris began to visualize herself with a more highly-trained, muscularly-sculpted physique. One day about thirteen years ago, as Iris recalls, she walked into a gym and took out a membership. "I distinctly remember being a bit overwhelmed with the facilities and the seemingly endless variety of training equipment," says Iris. "But I knew at that exact moment … without feeling even the slightest doubt … that I could develop the kind of physique I wanted." This visualization technique, so important to elite athletes, was to serve Iris well in the coming years.

Some time later, Iris was hired by the same club and, as an employee, even more opportunities presented themselves for training, learning and growth. The more Iris trained; the greater was her thirst for knowledge. She became a voracious reader of FLEX, Muscle and Fitness, Iron Man and other like-minded magazines, soaking up knowledge like the proverbial sponge.

Iris observes, "In the beginning, I wasn’t 100% sure where exactly I wanted to go with my physique. At the same time, I knew I had the potential - the determination, commitment and work ethics - to be an elite athlete." Then, a picture in a magazine changed Iris’ life forever.

IRIS KYLE 2006 Ms. Olympia *photograph courtesy of Weider Publications

"I remember the first time I saw a photograph of Lenda Murray in a magazine. I was in complete awe," recalls Iris. "I cut out that picture and placed it on my refrigerator and, from that point on, my goal was to develop a physique like hers."

With her "ideal" physique in mind, Iris stepped up her training to a whole new level and became a woman possessed; hammering away at the weights almost non-stop; honing her nutritional and dietary knowledge. She quickly began receiving constant positive feedback from friends, co-workers and other people in the gym.

Then one day, a local promoter was in the gym and, after sizing Iris up, suggested she enter a competition he was doing in 10 weeks, the Long Beach Muscle Classic. Iris recalls, "I used the contest as a focal point; as further incentive to train even harder … to work on my diet and to practice bodybuilding movements and posing routines." Iris remembers the feeling as she waited backstage at her first amateur contest. "I thought, what the heck did I get myself into? Am I really going to walk onstage in a bikini, in front of an audience of strangers, and pose?" She continues, "I knew it was too late to back down, so I adjusted my oversize posing suit and went for it." Iris won that show and really never looked back. "I thought I’d just conquered the world," says Iris.

In 1998, Iris’ dedication and commitment paid off big time with a Heavyweight and Overall win at the prestigious NPC USA Championships. Says Iris, "Winning a show that allows only one female bodybuilder to earn an IFBB Pro card, and knowing that on that night I was that one person from among so many gifted athletes, was absolutely huge for me. I was floating on clouds for weeks after that!"

As one phase of Iris’ competitive career ended, another began with Iris now concentrating on the professional stage. At her first pro show, Iris recalls, "I felt very much in control; I wasn’t intimidated. Backstage, the other competitors were like the amateurs I’d competed against - very talkative, playful and helpful towards one another. Then, we went onstage and the game changed significantly."

Says Iris, "The battle was brutal; the mindset of the female pro bodybuilder is something I had never witnessed or experienced. Every single one of these competitors believed and acted like they had a lock on first place. I learned quickly that to stand toe-to-toe with them, I had to be 100% in control and to be just as aggressively competitive."

IRIS KYLE 2004 Ms. Olympia *photograph courtesy of Weider Publications

Several years would pass, with Iris competing annually in the Ms. International and Ms. Olympia, before she would secure her first professional win, which came at the 2001 Ms. Olympia where she captured the Heavyweight title. Recalls Iris, "When I heard my name announced in first place, I was elated. And I immediately thought to myself, winning the overall Olympia is just moments away. But it didn’t happen as I’d hoped." Indeed, Juliette Bergmann, who had returned to the competitive stage after an 11-year absence and who had earlier captured the Lightweight class, ended up winning the Overall title. Looking back, Iris maintains "I sincerely believe that I was the rightful 2001 Overall Ms. Olympia. I’m not saying Juliette didn’t display a nice overall package; I’m just saying I believe my physique was better."

In 2002, 6-time Ms. Olympia Lenda Murray, after having last competed in 1995, would return from retirement to once again capture the Ms. Olympia crown. Lenda would repeat this feat in 2003. On both occasions, Iris ended up in second place behind her idol. Iris remembers, "As I’ve said before, Lenda is an icon and a legend. Just to stand onstage with her was absolutely amazing; something I never dreamed I’d get the chance to do."

Iris learned a very valuable lesson in the aftermath of her two defeats to Murray. "After losing to Lenda, I knew my ‘A’ game had to be three times better than her ‘A’ game. Like they say, it’s tough to beat the reigning champ on points alone; you pretty much have to knock her out!" It’s clear that Iris was growing frustrated at playing second fiddle … always the bridesmaid, never the bride, as they say. However, in 2004, any and all doubts of Iris’ ability to rise to the top of her chosen profession would finally be laid to rest.

Iris started off the year with a bang at the prestigious Ms. International, winning the Heavyweight category against Yaxeni Oriquen and then capturing the Overall title against Lightweight winner Dayana Cadeau. Later that year, at the 2004 Ms. Olympia, Iris found herself for the third time in as many years standing onstage, holding hands with Lenda, nervously awaiting the announcement of the winner of the Heavyweight class. "It seemed like the announcer was taking forever. Then I heard Lenda’s name called out for second place and I felt my heart racing a hundred miles an hour. I knew I’d won. I had beaten a legend. It was such an unbelievable high." Iris would go on to best Dayana Cadeau again for the Overall Ms. Olympia title. She was finally there … at the pinnacle of her sport.

IRIS KYLE 2007 Ms. International *photograph courtesy of Weider Publications

In 2005, Iris decided to skip the Ms. International and concentrate on defending her Olympia title. Unfortunately for Iris, Yaxeni was having her best year ever, winning the Ms. International and then, with the contest reverting to one open category again [the event was split into two categories from 2000 to 2004], taking the Olympia title as well.

Iris would return with a vengeance the following two years. In 2006, she would beat Dayana and Yaxeni to take the Ms. International. Later that year, she would best Dayana to regain her Olympia title. In 2007, she would edge out Yaxeni for the Ms. International and then triumph over Dayana and Yaxeni again to win her third Olympia title. Says Iris proudly, "I don’t take anything for granted. Every win is like my very first; the same adrenaline rush and the feeling of having conquered the entire world."

Iris isn’t too far off. In the 28-year history of the Ms. Olympia, only three other competitors, Cory Everson, Lenda Murray and Kim Chizevsky, have won more times. Iris is in great company.

IRIS KYLE ON …

Disappointments: "I handle disappointments like stepping stones to personal growth, character development and maturity. I treat people with kindness and respect. I believe God will never give you more than you can handle."

Training and Nutrition: "Treat the body right. Stick to basic exercises. Keep yourself injury-free by training your body not your ego. You are what you eat so be wise when selecting foods. If it’s got more than 5 ingredients, it’s probably not the optimum choice."

IRIS KYLE 2006 Ms. International *photograph courtesy of Weider Publications

Favorite Food: "Sushi, sushi, and more sushi! Also, Thai food and steamed rice."

Least Favorite Food: "Steak and potatoes. I’m not crazy about dairy products either."

Favorite Movies: "Comedy, action and love stories. ‘How Stella Got Her Groove On’ is my all-time favorite."

Favorite TV Show: "Law & Order".

Favorite Music: "R & B, Jazz and Sensible Rap."

Hobbies: "Shopping, shopping and more shopping. Also, rollerblading, biking, long walks, running on the beach, and traveling the world."

Short-term Goals: "Defending my Ms. Olympia title."

Long-term Goals: "Winning the most Ms. Olympia titles ever! I also want to promote my own bodybuilding and fitness contest; open a training camp to prepare athletes for competition; and travel the world speaking about health and fitness."

Competing in the IFBB Pro League: "Coming up through the ranks, most everyone I ran into spoke positively about the IFBB and its long history. People would say, ‘If you really want to be at the elite level in the sport of bodybuilding … if you really want to compete against the best in the world … you’ve got to do it as an IFBB athlete.’ I’m proud to be part of such a prestigious organization."

SUPPORT

When asked about her support network, Iris is very proud to proclaim, "God is my mentor. He has given me all that I have … the passion, perseverance and patience to endure the challenges set before me. I know as long as I keep the faith, He will look out for my best interests." Iris continues, "I have many many wonderful people in my life … too many to mention here. I know in my heart that, without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today."

IRIS KYLE 2004 Ms. International *photograph courtesy of Weider Publications

"My dearest family are my #1 fans. They’ve followed my every move throughout my amateur and professional career. It doesn’t get any better than that! Special thanks to my sponsors, Goldfield ‘the Muscle-Maker’, from the Netherlands. They’re absolutely wonderful. Roland Walliser, my personal photographer, a kind heart and soul. My loving FRIENDS, who think it’s an honor being my friend when, in reality, I’m the one who’s privileged to have each and every one of them in my life. Yoanka Arimendez, Susanne Bock and her husband Thorsten, Patrick Lynn, Teresa Dinh, Juan Minero, Erin Sherouse, Martin Alravez, Jeff Lowe, Marcella Grahams. And John Sherman … words cannot begin to describe this man’s kind heart, enduring patience and iron will … having him as part of my life is icing on the cake."

CONTEST HISTORY
1994 Ironmaiden Championships - 2nd (MW)
1996 Orange County Muscle Classic - 1st (HW and Overall)
1996 NPC California - 1st (HW and Overall)
1996 NPC USA Championships - 2nd (HW)
1997 NPC USA Championships - 3rd (HW)
1997 NPC Nationals - 4th (HW)
1998 NPC USA Championships - 1st (HW and Overall)
1999 IFBB Ms. International - 15th
1999 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 4th
1999 IFBB Pro World Championship - 2nd
2000 IFBB Ms. International - disqualified
2000 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 5th (HW)
2001 IFBB Ms. International - 2nd (HW)
2001 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 1st (HW)
2002 IFBB Ms. International - 2nd (HW)
2002 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 2nd (HW)
2002 IFBB GNC Show of Strength - 2nd (HW)
2003 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 2nd (HW)
2004 IFBB Ms. International - 1st (HW and Overall)
2004 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 1st (HW and Overall)
2005 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 2nd
2006 IFBB Ms. International - 1st
2006 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 1st
2007 IFBB Ms. International - 1st
2007 IFBB Ms. Olympia - 1st
2008 IFBB Ms. International - 7th

2006 Ms.Olympia runner-up, Dayana Cadeau, says she feels lucky to be blessed with one of the best physiques in the world. At the most recent version of bodybuilding's premier event, the crowd, and evidently, the judges, thought she had one of the best packages onstage.

Dayana felt this would be her year to take the overall Ms. Olympia title (she won the lightweight version in 2004); such were the amazing changes she made to her physique: larger biceps, which have finally caught up to her titanic triceps, a wider back, ten pounds of quality muscle and the usual unsurpassed leg development saw her come very close to taking the title.

However, history will show that eventual winner, Iris Kyle, is now the new benchmark to which all professional-female-bodybuilders can aspire. Although Dayana came a close second - denied victory by only two points - she is convinced she had the "better package with better balance, and the prettiest face."

Perhaps an argument could be made for the third count, but the judges were awarding on physical development and gave Iris the nod. Nevertheless, Dayana clearly has the ability to win the Ms. Olympia title as witnessed by her close second to Iris and the phenomenal physique she possesses, complete with the "Best legs in the world."

As to her future plans, Dayana will be back next year to contest the Olympia and take the title she feels is rightfully hers. In the following interview she gives an exclusive look at what goes through the mind of a top Olympia contender as she prepares for, and competes in the contest of her life.

Dayana's Pro Contest History:

• 1997: 10th place, Jan Tana Classic
• 1998: 3rd place, Jan Tana Classic
• 1998: 11th place, Ms. Olympia
• 1999: 10th place, Arnold Classic
• 1999: 6th place, Pro Women's Extravaganza
• 2000: 2nd in lightweight, Jan Tana Classic
• 2001: Ms. International lightweight winner
• 2001: 3rd place, Ms. Olympia lightweight
• 2002: 2nd place, Ms. International lightweight
• 2002: 5th place, Ms. Olympia heavyweight
• 2003: 4th Ms. International lightweight
• 2003: Jan Tana Classic middleweight winner
• 2003: 2nd place, Ms. Olympia lightweight
• 2004: Ms. International lightweight winner
• 2004: Ms. Olympia lightweight winner
• 2005: 3rd place, Ms. Olympia
• 2006: 2nd place, Ms. International

Name: Yaxeni Milagros Oriquen Perez
Born: September 3, 1966, Venezuela


Height: 5'7 Biceps: 17.5 Quads: 48 Calves: 20 I have 4 brothers and 4 sisters. Among my brothers and sisters, I am the youngest.

Background: Fitness Education, Theater, Modeling and a TV Actress.

In 1993 I won the Venezuelan Nationals, the Ibero American, The South American and the Central American Championships.

In 1993 I took my Procard IFBB and won overall championships in Puerto Rico; then I moved to the US.

Currently I work as a personal trainer at Iron Works in Miami Beach, Florida.

On my free time, I study English and spend a lot of time with my husband and my son. I am extremely organized, disciplined and strict. I have a temper sometimes.

I spend most of my time doing services for my Lord, I am evangelist. God Transformed my life, He gave me peace and joy. Through God I have learned to content myself no matter the circumstances. He is my strength. He gives strength to whoever needs him, just open your hearth and spirit and let him come to your life. Remember He died for us.

I would like to be a movie star, let's say a "Yaxeneger" (female Arnold Version).

Favorite colors - blue, white & black. Favorite food off season - sweets, cakes (prepared by myself), white rice, beans and steak.

2005 Ms. Olympia IFBB - Winner 2005 Ms. International - Overall, 1st 2004 Ms. Olympia - 3rd 2004 Ms. International - 2nd 2004 GNC Show Of Strength - 1st 2004 Night Of Champions - 1st 2003 Ms. Olympia - 3rd 2003 Ms. International - Overall, 1st 2002 Ms. Olympia - 4th 2002 GNC Show Of Strength Pro - 1st 2002 Ms. International - Overall, 1st 2001 Ms. Olympia - 3rd 2001 Women's Pro Extravaganza - 2nd 2001 Jan Tana Classic - 2nd 2001 Ms. International - 4th 2000 Ms. Olympia - 4th 2000 Ms. International - 8th 1999 Women's Pro Extravaganza - 3rd 1999 Ms. Olympia - 10th 1999 World Pro Championships - 6th 1999 Ms. International - 18th 1999 Jan Tana Pro Classic - 2nd 1998 Ms. Olympia - 10th 1998 Ms. International - 14th 1998 Jan Tana Pro Classic - 4th 1997 Jan Tana Pro Classic - 6th 1996 Jan Tana Pro Classic - 12th 1996 Grand Prix Slovakia - 8th 1996 Grand Prix Prague - 8th 1995 Jan Tana Pro Classic - 9th 1995 Grand Prix Prague - 5th 1994 Jan Tana Pro Classic - 10th 1994 Grand Prix Prague - 6th

Yaxeni Oriquen

Venezuela's Yaxeni Oriquen is one of the best female bodybuilders in history and a fitness icon. Her excellent muscle symmetry, muscle proportion and strength are the result of relentless training, natural talent, and a winning personality - that made her Ms Olympia 2005.
Yaxeni's background is very broad and diverse. She studied Theatre and Physical Education in Caracas, Venezuela, was a bikini model where she did photo shoots and fashion catwalk shows, and even acted briefly in TV programs in Venezuela. Her long successful bodybuilding competition history started in 1989, and after attaining her Pro bodybuilder card in 1994, she emigrated to the United States in order to compete at higher levels. So far Yaxeni has competed in over 36 bodybuilding competitions, winning Ms Olympia 2005, and the Ms International in 2002, 2003 and 2005. In this exclusive interview, Yaxeni describes what it takes to be a bodybuilding champion.

Author: Jonathan.L - Owner Models Observer
December 2007

Yaxeni, how are you? What's new in your life?

Yaxeni Oriquen: I am doing very well. My son recently turned 17 years old and I am in the process of buying him a car and making plans for him to attend college. In addition, I just began dieting for the 2008 Arnold Classic.

* Your name is very unique. What's the meaning of it?

Yaxeni Oriquen: My mother named her 4 daughters with names beginning with the letter Y. Yaxeni has an Indian heritage but I am not sure of the meaning.

* I see you grew up in a large family with 4 brothers and 4 sisters! What was it like? How were your relationship with your parents?

Yaxeni Oriquen: It was wonderful growing up in Venezuela with a large family, never a dull moment. Especially, at the dinner table where we had to fight for food. My parents were both special people; they have both passed away.

What made you start bodybuilding?

Yaxeni Oriquen: I always felt that I was too thin. Friends and family would poke fun at me calling me "flaca"- which means skinny. I responded well to weights and fell in love with bodybuilding.

* You are Ms Olympia 2005, and Ms. International champion in 2002, 2003 and 2005. For many bodybuilders it's only a dream to be so successful, and you made it reality. How has winning these awards affected your professional and personal life?

Yaxeni Oriquen: Being a very religious person I feel truly blessed with my accomplishments. However, I have worked extremely hard for the past 18 years training 6 days a week. Bodybuilding has instilled in me a solid work ethic and discipline. This translates into other areas of my life as well; always following through on my commitments.

* What was your training program like for 2005 Ms. Olympia?

Yaxeni Oriquen: This is an interesting question. As athletes we try to present the look that the judges are looking for. For 2005, I came in with a more feminine look; that is, muscular but with softer lines. This did not work out for 2006 where I did not place as well. Currently, they are rewarding the girls with the harder and dryer physiques which is very challenging to attain.

* What did you eat in order to build your great muscle mass? How many calories did you consume a day?

Yaxeni Oriquen: Food is extremely important to build muscle mass. In the off-season I try to eat about 1.5 grams/lbs of protein & a little less than 1.5 grams/lbs of carbs. I divide this over about 6 meals a day. The key is clean, unprocessed food.

Yaxeni Oriquen: In addition to protein shakes, I take multivitamins, and anti-oxidants such as Vitamin A,C,& E.

* What have you learned or discovered about your body since becoming a bodybuilder?

Yaxeni Oriquen: I have learned that what works for one athlete may not work as well for another. Our bodies are unique. For example, I have the typical Latin bottom, and have a difficult time getting my glutes striated. * Is it easier to reach the top of bodybuilding, more than staying there? Why do you think so?

Yaxeni Oriquen: Definitely more difficult to stay there. Everyone wants to beat the number 1 person. I think this applies to all walks of life.

* Would you say your background in modeling and acting benefits you in bodybuilding competitions?

Yaxeni Oriquen: Absolutely. The posing and choreography come very naturally and is probably the only area where I don't have to work hard. Often even I don't even know what I'm going to do until I get out there on stage.

* Your body is one of the strongest bodies the world has ever known. How strong are your muscles? What are your best lifts in the gym?

Yaxeni Oriquen: Ha ha ha! That is funny because I currently train with my brother-in-law who calls me a horse. I lift more weight than the majority of men in my gym. During leg press I fill the racks with 45 lbs plates and have someone standing on top of the machines to add additional weight.

* What is the best part of being a personal trainer? Would you like to tell me about a difference you've made in someone's life through personal training?

Yaxeni Oriquen: This is who I am. I love helping people achieve their goals and all of my clients are different. Some want to lose weight, others want to tone up, and a few want to become bodybuilders.

* Please describe a typical day of yours.

Yaxeni Oriquen: A typical day involves working with 8-10 clients as a personal trainer. I work out with weights for an hour and do cardio for 45 minutes. I try to take a short nap at mid-day. I prepare all the food for my family at night before bedtime.

* What do you like to do in your free time?

Yaxeni Oriquen: Eat, eat, eat. I love to eat! I spend time with my husband and son. I also enjoy traveling and working in my garden.

* Do you plan to compete in 2008 Ms. Olympia?

Yaxeni Oriquen: I plan on winning 2008 Ms. Olympia and regaining my title as Ms. O!

Yaxeni Oriquen site: www.yaxeni.com