The 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am, held in the vibrant city of Vancouver, Canada, showcased a fierce battle among bodybuilders across various divisions. From Classic Physique to Men’s Open, Men’s Physique, Bikini, Figure, and Fitness, these competitors clashed in pursuit of a highly sought-after prize—the invitation to the illustrious Mr. Olympia competition.
Amidst the backdrop of limited qualifying opportunities this year, the path to the 2023 Mr. Olympia has become even more arduous. With the grand event slated for November 2-5, set to grace the iconic Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, competitors at the Vancouver Pro/Am recognized the magnitude of their endeavor.
Hassan Mostafa Roars Back: Aiming to Dethrone the Reigning Champion
In the highly anticipated Men’s Open category, all eyes were on the formidable Hassan Mostafa, whose determination to reclaim his glory was palpable. Having faced disappointment as the runner-up on two occasions—first to Iain Valliere at the 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow, and later upset by Phil Clahar at the 2023 Orlando Pro—Mostafa returned to the stage with renewed vigor.
Standing in Mostafa’s path was the indomitable Stan de Longeaux, affectionately known as ‘Stanimal.’ Having trailed behind Mostafa in the Orlando competition, Stanimal sought to surpass his rival and emerge victorious in Vancouver. The clash between these two titans promised an enthralling showdown, with the coveted Mr. Olympia invitation hanging in the balance.
2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Champions
- Men’s Open: Hassan Mostafa
- Classic Physique: John Le
- Men’s Physique: Jason Huynh
- Bikini: Ashley Kaltwasser
- Figure: Gina Palma
- Fitness: Sarah Kovach
2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Results
Men’s Open
Hassan Mostafa Clinches Men’s Open Victory with Freaky Fullness at 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am
In the Men’s Open division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am, the competitors may have been fewer in number, but they certainly brought the heat during prejudging on Saturday. Among them, the standout factor was the impressive back thickness displayed by Hassan Mostafa, proving to be one of his most formidable assets. Opting for a fuller look rather than chasing extreme conditioning, Mostafa’s strategy seemed to have paid off. Previously securing a second-place finish at the 2023 Orlando Pro, he was determined to make his mark in Canada.
His main rival, the renowned Stan “Stanimal” de Longeaux, also made his last appearance at the Orlando Pro, finishing in third place behind Mostafa. However, at the Vancouver Pro/Am, de Longeaux showcased a stellar look and excellent conditioning, presenting a formidable challenge. Nonetheless, it was the freaky fullness and undeniable presence of Hassan Mostafa that ultimately sealed the deal in the finals, earning him the highly coveted qualification to compete at the prestigious Mr. Olympia show.
Stan de Longeaux secured second place with his impressive performance, while Nate Spear claimed the third spot on the podium, rounding out the top three in the Men’s Open division. With his victory, Hassan Mostafa solidified his place among the elite, setting his sights on the upcoming Mr. Olympia competition, where he will undoubtedly bring his formidable physique to the stage.
- Winner — Hassan Mostafa
- Second Place — Stan ‘Stanimal’ de Longeaux
- Third Place — Nate Spear
- Fourth Place — Prince Boabang
- Fifth Place — Morgan MacDonald
- Sixth Place — Eiren Gauley
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Classic Physique
John Le Claims Classic Physique Victory with Impressive Physique at 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am
In the Classic Physique division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am, the stage was set for an intense battle during prejudging. Among the contenders, Robert Waterhouse, Dylan Bursey, and John Le fought fiercely for the coveted center stage position. Waterhouse’s most recent event was the 2020 British Grand Prix, where he secured a ninth-place finish. Bursey, on the other hand, last left a lasting impression on the judges at the 2022 NPC North America Championships, clinching first place. Le’s previous contest was at the 2022 Texas Pro, where he landed in fourth position.
The prejudging phase witnessed numerous close comparisons between the athletes. However, it was the combination of Le’s capped shoulders and tight waist that earned him the well-deserved victory. His impeccable physique captivated the judges and set him apart from the competition. Dylan Bursey emerged as the runner-up in Canada, showcasing an impressive performance of his own. Robert Waterhouse claimed the third spot, while Issac Baier secured fourth place, completing the top rankings in the Classic Physique division.
With his triumph, John Le solidified his place as a force to be reckoned with in the Classic Physique category. His dedication, aesthetics, and impeccable proportions propelled him to victory at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am, leaving a lasting impression on both the judges and the audience.
- Winner — John Le
- Second Place — Dylan Bursey
- Third Place — Robert Waterhouse
- Fourth Place — Isaac Baier
- Fifth Place — Adam Beveridge
- Sixth Place — Carl Gauthier
- Seventh Place — Anas Barahmeh
- Eighth Place — Narek Khachatyan
- Ninth Place — Billy Danh
- Tenth Place — Jesse Strand
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Men’s Physique
Jason Huynh Secures Men’s Physique Victory at 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am
In the highly competitive Men’s Physique division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am, Jason Huynh emerged as the deserving champion. The top placements showcased an impressive lineup of athletes, with Huynh’s victory solidifying his qualification for the upcoming Olympia, having previously secured his spot after triumphing at the 2023 Republic of Texas Pro show. For Huynh, the Vancouver Pro/Am served as a valuable test run and an opportunity to fine-tune his physique in preparation for the Olympia stage.
While Huynh had already secured his qualification, it meant that no additional qualification was awarded in the division. This news may have been disappointing for the second-place finisher, Mehdi Kabbadj. However, Kabbadj had already earned his qualification by winning the 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow, ensuring his presence among the elite competitors at the Olympia.
The Men’s Physique division showcased tremendous talent and competitive spirit, with athletes like Drew Cullen, Chevy Phillips, Wagner Abreu, Patrick Asiedu, Xezikiel Afanou, Slegfried Ezeuko, Chuan-Yu Liu, and Eric Neal also displaying their dedication and skill on the stage. The 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am provided an exciting platform for these athletes to showcase their physique and make their mark in the world of Men’s Physique competition.
- Winner — Jason Huynh
- Second Place — Mehdi Kabbadj
- Third Place — Drew Cullen
- Fourth Place — Chevy Phillips
- Fifth Place — Wagner Abreu
- Sixth Place — Patrick Asiedu
- Seventh Place — Xezikiel Afanou
- Eighth Place — Slegfried Ezeuko
- Ninth Place — Chuan-Yu Liu
- Tenth Place — Eric Neal
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Bikini
Ashley Kaltwasser Makes History with 40th Pro Show Victory at 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Bikini Division
In a stunning display of excellence, Ashley Kaltwasser secured an unprecedented victory in the Bikini division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am. With her remarkable win, Kaltwasser achieved a historic milestone as the very first IFBB Pro to capture an astounding 40 pro show victories. What makes this achievement even more extraordinary is that three of these impressive triumphs occurred in the year 2023 alone.
Renowned as a legend in the world of bodybuilding, Kaltwasser’s exceptional track record had already guaranteed her a coveted spot at the 2023 Olympia, regardless of winning another pro show. However, by emerging victorious in the Vancouver Pro/Am, she solidified her qualification exclusively for herself, ensuring that her well-deserved spot remains firmly in her possession. Kaltwasser’s unwavering determination and unmatched skills were on full display as she once again triumphed in the competition, adding yet another incredible victory to her illustrious career.
The Bikini division featured a lineup of talented and dedicated competitors, with Maxine Alexandra Somov, Tianna Weymouth, Nikki Kiani, Rhoda Allie, Kateryna Kauffmann, Meggy Martin-Johnson, Gina Switzeny, Jill E. Humphrey, and Kristy Ann Keppel also showcasing their remarkable physiques. However, it was Ashley Kaltwasser who reigned supreme, leaving an indelible mark on the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am and the world of bikini bodybuilding.
- Winner — Ashley Kaltwasser
- Second Place — Maxine Alexandra Somov
- Third Place — Tianna Weymouth
- Fourth Place — Nikki Kiani
- Fifth Place — Rhoda Allie
- Sixth Place — Kateryna Kauffmann
- Seventh Place — Meggy Martin-Johnson
- Eighth Place — Gina Switzeny
- Ninth Place — Jill E. Humphrey
- Tenth Place — Kristy Ann Keppel
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Figure
Gina Palma Shines Bright with Victory in Figure Division at 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am
In a remarkable display of talent and determination, Gina Palma emerged victorious in the Figure division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am. Palma’s triumph marked a significant milestone in her career as it was her first win in the Figure category, securing her qualification for the prestigious Figure Olympia competition.
Palma’s success in 2023 had already set the stage for her triumphant performance. Prior to her victory in Vancouver, she achieved notable wins at the Wasatch Warrior Pro Masters and another impressive victory in Abbotsford. The win in Abbotsford was particularly significant as it not only earned her a qualification for the Figure Olympia but also made her eligible to compete in the Masters Olympia Figure contest. Palma’s exceptional season thus presents her with the unique opportunity to compete in both these prestigious events, doubling her chances to showcase her remarkable talent.
The Figure division at the Vancouver Pro/Am featured a lineup of exceptional athletes, including Autumn Cleveland, Dallia Alegria, Peyton Dutcher, Paige Sabedra, Lauren Martin-Stow, and Rachel Shoemake, who displayed their dedication and showcased their incredible physiques. However, it was Gina Palma’s outstanding performance that captured the judges’ attention and propelled her to victory.
With her remarkable achievements and the double opportunity to compete in both the Figure Olympia and Masters Olympia Figure contest, Gina Palma has solidified her place as a force to be reckoned with in the world of Figure bodybuilding. Her journey continues to inspire and her success serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication and passion for the sport.
- Winner — Gina Palma
- Second Place — Autumn Cleveland
- Third Place — Dallia Alegria
- Fourth Place — Peyton Dutcher
- Fifth Place — Paige Sabedra
- Sixth Place — Lauren Martin-Stow
- Seventh Place — Rachel Shoemake
Fitness
Sarah Kovach Takes the Spotlight with Victory in Fitness Division at 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am
Sarah Kovach emerged as the standout athlete in the Fitness division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am, securing a remarkable victory. With her exceptional performance, Kovach showcased her dedication and skill, leaving a lasting impression on the judges and the audience.
The Fitness division featured a competitive lineup, with formidable contenders such as Michelle Fredua-Mensa, Stephanie Jones, Jessica Ann Zehr, Noeme Champagne-Cloutier, and Danielle DaCosta. Each athlete displayed their athleticism and artistry, making the competition intense and exciting.
However, it was Sarah Kovach’s captivating routine and outstanding physicality that propelled her to the top spot on the podium. Her hard work and commitment paid off, earning her the well-deserved victory in the Fitness division at the 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am.
Kovach’s triumph serves as a testament to her talent and dedication, as she continues to make her mark in the world of fitness competitions. Her victory at the Vancouver Pro/Am further solidifies her position as a rising star in the Fitness division, and her future performances will undoubtedly be highly anticipated.
- Winner — Sarah Kovach
- Second Place — Michelle Fredua-Mensa
- Third Place — Stephanie Jones
- Fourth Place — Jessica Ann Zehr
- Fifth Place — Noeme Champagne-Cloutier
- Sixth Place — Danielle DaCosta
2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Scorecards
Colosseum Strength extends heartfelt congratulations to all the winners of the Vancouver Pro/Am competition. Your hard work, dedication, and exceptional performances have earned you well-deserved victories. We are thrilled to witness your incredible journey as you prepare to shine on the grand stage of the Mr. Olympia competition. Your accomplishments inspire us and we eagerly anticipate witnessing your continued success and remarkable performances. Best of luck as you represent the pinnacle of strength and excellence in the world of bodybuilding.
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