SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) — Over the weekend, athletes from across the world traveled to Shreveport to compete in the 22nd Optimum Classic OCC Championships. This year’s winners shared stories of redemption, resilience, and career-defining victories.
From comeback moments to long-awaited wins, the Optimum Classic delivered emotional highlights and elite-level competition.
IFBB Pro Classic winner Jordan Plantiko said the victory marked a powerful return after stepping away from the stage for several years.
“I’m ecstatic,” Plantiko said. “This is redemption for me.”
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Plantiko explained that the show came just weeks after his first competition in five years.
“It was the first time I stepped on stage in five years,” he said. “To knock the rust off, get the feedback I needed, and then come out with the victory today, I’m super stoked.”
Across multiple divisions, athletes reflected on the sacrifices it took to reach the top.
IFBB Pro Women’s Physique winner Sara Bradley said emotions were overwhelming after her win.
“I just have no words,” Bradley said.
Bradley described this prep as one of the smoothest of her career.
“It’s probably one of the smoothest preps I’ve gone through,” she said. “I changed my coaches earlier this year, and it’s been a very, very good prep.”
In the Bikini division, Elisa Pecini shared how taking a year off helped her return stronger.
“After 10 years, I took one year off,” Pecini said. “It was good for my mind and my body, but I was missing being on stage.”
Pecini said the challenge and opportunity to inspire others drew her back.
“I love how this part challenges me and how I can inspire other women,” she said.
That same dedication showed in the Women’s Figure division.
“Yes, absolutely,” said Jaslynn Kyander when asked if the win was worth it. “I took three years off to build and come back strong.”
For IFBB Pro Wellness winner Ralei Dias, the focus now shifts to the sport’s biggest stage.
“Now we get points for the Olympia,” the interpreter said. “The next show is the Olympia.”
The Optimum Classic once again brought world-class bodybuilders to Shreveport to compete at the highest level.
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