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Cover Story: At 53, Will Jackie Lawrence Be The Next IPL Masters Bikini Pro?

“Ha! If it happens, it happens. I’m just grateful to be on the stage with all those bad-ass women. They inspire me!”

Interview & Photography by Ben Yosef

In the world of Physique Competition, Jackie Lawrence stands as a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of self-improvement. At 53, her journey in the International Physique League showcases not just physical transformation, but also a deep commitment to personal growth. In this exclusive interview, we delve into Jackie’s preparation for the April 2024 IPL Arizona Championship, exploring her motivations, challenges, and unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries. From overcoming initial fears to confronting unexpected obstacles like a shoulder injury, Jackie’s story is one of unwavering perseverance and a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human body and mind. As the stage lights beckon, the question looms: Will Jackie Lawrence be the next IPL Masters Bikini Pro?

***The following interview took place over the course of several days.***

"My goal has been to present a package that is at least 1% better than last time. So I achieved my goal!"

BEN YOSEF: Okay, here we go! Congratulations on your success at APEX this past November, as well as the amazing improvements you made to your physique and presentation since the spring show! How are you feeling about what you brought to the stage at APEX?

JACKIE LAWRENCE: Thank you! IPL shows are always so fun and super inspiring! I felt really good at APEX. My goal has been to present a package that is at least 1% better than last time. So I achieved my goal!

BEN: Indeed you did! And I would say far better than just one percent! What changes did you make in the months between shows in order to make such improvements?

JACKIE: I didn’t eat like an asshole in my off-season! I still enjoy all the foods and drinks during the off-season, but this time stayed within 10lbs of my stage weight. This made it easier to prep for the second show and allowed me to maintain a lot of my results. Basically, I created a lifestyle that keeps my goals in mind, but also allowing for some flexibility. It’s really the sweet spot to be in!

BEN: That sounds super fantastic. How much weight did you drop for your first contest, seven months prior?

JACKIE: For the first show I dropped 12lbs and 2% Body Fat.

BEN: Nice. 12lbs isn’t too much weight to lose, when compared to what a lot of athletes are losing during their prep. So, it’s great that you are able to stay within fighting weight, generally speaking! Considering weight loss isn’t your major challenge, what are some of the challenges you face if any, with regards to your prep for stage?

JACKIE: [laughs] I LOVE FOOD! So staying within my calorie goal and keeping my food “clean” for prep can sometimes be challenging. I also loathe cardio. But I do it anyways! Once you get dialed into your routine, it does actually get easier. Starting is always the hardest part!

BEN: In the two IPL contests you have completed in, the only divisions you have entered were Bikini Model and Bikini. Let’s talk about what is compelling you to enter these two divisions. Starting with Bikini Model, at your first contest last spring you entered only this division. And in four classes within it. Novice, Masters 50+, Masters 40+ and Open. What made you want to enter only this division at that show, and what is it about the Bikini Model division that attracts you to it?

"...I LOVE the Bikini Model division because you get to 'ham it up' more on stage. I dig that part. You get to be a little more sassy."

JACKIE: Great question! To be honest, I was intimidated to do the Bikini division, that’s why I only did Bikini Model. But I LOVE the Bikini Model division because you get to “ham it up” more on stage. I dig that part. You get to be a little more sassy.

BEN: Your first class at APEX was Bikini Model Masters 40+. You would end up placing 2nd in that class in a very close call, missing 1st place by just two points to Renee Curzie. What was it like competing in that class and how were you feeling about your placement?

JAKIE: To be honest…I could care less about where I place. My only competition is myself. I aim to improve with each show and only use my personal photos as comparison. But I love being on the stage and feel proud of everyone that is up there with me. Renee is beautiful and it was an honor to share the stage with her!

BEN: Love it. Your second and final class at APEX was Bikini Masters 40+. Once again you would end up in 2nd place. What was it like competing in the Bikini division for the first time? And what made you want to enter that division? Especially considering, as you mentioned, you had been intimidated by the division in the past.

“…I decided to face my fears and go for it! And I'm so glad I did!”

BEN: I am glad you did as well! You were amazing in that division and really one of the highlights of the entire show! As we wrap up this interview, we are now just two months away from the 9th Annual IPL Arizona Championship in April. You mentioned that you might be entering that competition, which would be your third IPL show. I saw a post on Instagram the other day of you looking incredible. Have you decided to enter that contest yet?

JACKIE: I have high hopes of competing in April! But I recently found out that I need shoulder surgery. So if my surgery date is after show date, then I will be there! If not, then I will definitely be back to compete in another IPL event. This time I think I will add Evening Gown to my list too. I love the creativity and expression IPL events allow for with the athletes!

BEN: I am really sorry to hear that! Are you in pain? How did you sustain the injury or was it just something that built up over time? As far as Evening Gown, I am absolutely certain you would rock that division! That would be exciting to see!

JACKIE: Yes..in pain but manageable. I was in car accident Jan 2023…haven’t been the same since sadly.

BEN: Wow, I am really sorry to hear that. But I am glad that you are ok. Thank god things weren’t worse with your accident. I just saw your entry form for the Arizona Championship! That’s exciting! So, I guess you got clearance to push forward! How are the pain and injury impacting your training and prep for this competition?

"At the end of the day, workouts are very important, but nutrition will make the biggest impact on my results. I am dialed in baby!"

JACKIE: Thank you! Yes, very grateful it wasn’t worse. I’ve been given the “ok” to compete, but I need to modify upper body workouts to mitigate any additional complications it may cause before surgery. It’s all good! And I can still train hard and heavy on lower body. At the end of the day, workouts are very important, but nutrition will make the biggest impact on my results. I am dialed in baby!

BEN: Love it! And I’m super excited to see you back on stage in April! Finally, the title of this cover story interview is, “Will Jackie Lawrence Be The Next IPL Bikini Masters Pro? Sooo…Is this what’s going to go down in April? [laughs]

JACKIE: Ha! If it happens, it happens. I’m just grateful to be on the stage with all those bad-ass women. They inspire me! BIKINI

About the interviewer:

Picture of Ben Yosef

Ben Yosef

Ben is the Publisher of Natural Magazine and the President & Founder of the International Physique League.

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