Las Vegas Weekly

September 24, 2009 · 10:35 AM

Bodybuilders compete for Mr. and Ms. Olympia at The Orleans

By Robin Leach

2007 Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler.

Photo: Firm PR

It’s the most prestigious event in the world for bodybuilders. Those magnificent men with bulging biceps and mountainous muscles flex and pose for the fifth consecutive Mr. Olympia weekend at The Orleans!

The fitness fanatics arrive today and are judged tomorrow along with the Ms. Olympia finals and fitness contests. On Saturday, it’s the Mr. Olympia finals. A win at the annual bodybuilding competition sponsored by the International Federation of Bodybuilders is considered the highest accolade in the professional sport.

Photo: Coast Casinos

2008 Mr. Olympia Dexter Jackson.

After 10 years of dedication, Dexter Jackson returns to compete and defend his title. Two-time winner and Las Vegas resident Jay Cutler and challengers Phil Heath, Dennis Wolf and Tony Freeman are all battling at the top for the title. Ms. Olympia features current champion Iris Kyle, Fitness Olympia Jan Hendershott and Figure Olympia Jennifer Gates all returning to defend their titles.

The remarkable story of Las Vegas business owner and chef Jay Littman will be in the spotlight this weekend, as well, as the bodybuilders compete. Jay will launch his new line of protein-fortified food products in conjunction with the fitness festivities. This past year, he’s lost more than 200 pounds and overcame drug and alcohol addictions to get in the best shape of his life. His before and after photos are amazing testaments to his remarkable achievements.

Beverly Poppe

Chef Jay Littman.

Chef Jay will be on hand at the Olympia Weekend Expo in our Convention Center starting today to debut his line of Skinny Dipped protein bars. It’s the candy shop of the fitness industry, with thousands of fans flocking from dozens of countries around the world. It’s the eighth annual vendor event in our city. He’ll happily share his own amazing diet and exercise tips, and you can read about his inspiring transformation in our sister publication Las Vegas Weekly HERE.

Robin Leach has been a journalist for more than 50 years and has spent the past decade giving readers the inside scoop on Las Vegas, the world’s premier platinum playground.

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