Well, wouldn’t you know it? My son Takeshi took THREE 1st Place awards, including an “Overall” trophy at L.A.’s “Ironman Naturally” competition today. I’m really proud of him. He really put his heart and soul into it. I’m sure he had the jitters as this was his first competition.
Just a pictorial of his accomplishments today. His “first” 1st Place in Physique Class A:
His “second” 1st Place in Physique Class B:
And his Overall 1st Place for Physique Class A/B:
Some shots from on stage; the guy in the center took the trophy for this mixed class:
And after the competition – a chance for a photo-op with the champ!
And yes, for those who are wondering, my physique surpasses that of my son. I’m just being modest and hiding my ripped body with my Green Bay Packers sweatshirt – which is too big now with all the weight I had lost.
And some of his friends and supporters were there, of course.
My oldest daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter Emi were also there for the morning half of the competition. You should have seen the winding line of thousands who were trying to get in when the doors opened!
The kid done good, yes?! Congratulations, Takeshi!
(Oh… A qualification. All of these photos had to be taken with my cellphone as they disallowed cameras. 😦 )
Masako and Spam Musubi 
Remarkable sculpturing, Koji. Has Takeshi been body building since he was very young? Please give him my very best wishes and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!
Good looking family all-around, Koji – you, your daughter and Emi shine!
Thank you very much, gpcox. My boy’s been in and out of body building for a while now. He was also a “legendary” wrestler and team captain of his varsity wrestling team and was ranked in the state. 🙂
Is that a proud Papa I hear talking?! Well, you have every right to be puffing out your chest (especially since you lost all that weight too!).
What a body Takeshi has and sure you have too !
Congratulations to a champion.
Susie
Thank you, Susie! I apologize for being largely absent but life had gotten in the way.
Koji,
That is alright -s o long as you are keeping well.
Fantastic! I know how proud you must be. It’s obvious how committed Takeshi has been. You look great, too, Koji. Congratulations on your weight loss. That took commitment too! 😊
The weight loss? It was easy… not! LOL Yes, we are all proud of Takeshi.
Like father like son. You both look amazing.
Aw, gee… Thanks, Chatter Master!
Wow!!! I am impressed. Congratulations to your son. Of course, he has the advantage of good genes, but he worked hard training. It sure paid off.
Thank you, sir… and to your fellow teammates, the Broncos (cough)! 🙂
Wow, I had no idea Koji. That is an impressive accomplishment. Congratulations to both of you! –Curt
Thanks, Curt. We are all very proud of him…
Heartiest congratulations, Takeshi! These will be just the first of many, you see!
I’m waiting for more ladies to clamor around him! 🙂
Oh that’s wonderful, congratulations to son and proud dad!
That’s very kind of you, Hilary. Thank you and congratulations on your recent publications!
Wow, So cool. Good for him! What an excellent example of dedication and hard work. I know you are so proud!
Thank you, Rob, and yes I am!
Congratulations.
Thank you. I hope all is well for you, too!
Relay my Congrats!!
Thank you!
Very cool! A reason to celebrate, for certain!
Thanks, Debra. And what do you think of our “El Nino”? Darwin must be happy!
Congratulations to both your son and to you, Koji! I think you both look fabulous. It’s so thrilling and satisfying to set a goal and then accomplish it. It’s a proud moment for both of you! :))
What an incredibly handsome fellow – well done 😀