BEN YOSEF: Congrats on your success at the 2021 Illinois State Championship! And what a show you put on for the Sports Model division! The force was definitely with you! What was it like on stage for that division? And how did you come up with your sport?

LAMARK ROBINSON: Thanks a million! I was in a zone. I felt like Michael Jordan in the 1992 finals against the Portland Trailblazers (shrugging) after knocking down 6 three pointers in the first half…I couldn’t miss!

     Sports-Model is my favorite division with it’s creativity and flexibility. I came up with my fencing idea last minute, the week of the competition. I originally coached a young lady to do fencing six years ago in Madison, WI and thought the entire ensemble was cool. I have witnessed a lot of the same sports displayed over and over again but never fencing.

BEN: Fencing was definitely a great look for you! You nailed it! What tips can you offer to athletes with regards to preparing for the Sports Model division? In terms of physique, presentation and outfit?

LAMARK: In regards to tips for Sports Model, I would do go with…try not be too predictable. The goal is to give the judges something they’ve never seen before. Whether it’s with your props, attire or performance. And even more important is your conditioning. The leaner you are, the better your chances. Make the impression you’d want to see if the roles were reversed. GAINZ