LANET: I was definitely nervous. It’s hard to explain how it feels when a judge asks you to make a split-second decision on stage to step up your game against PROS! I think it can only be described as exhilarating and frightening at the same time! What an honor. In my mind I kept repeating my prayer…“God give me the strength to perform well and honor You.”

BEN: Love it! Yes, that concept of giving new Pros (athletes who literally just earned their Pro Cards, seconds ago) the option to jump in to compete as a Pro that very same day is something we just started doing these last couple of years. Everyone seems to love it and it certainly generates some crazy excitement!

     So, you would go on to win the Pro title in that class, in bit of a controversial decision. Some believe that perhaps Megan Johnson-McCullough, who placed 2nd, had that win. That being said, I certainly feel your win was well-deserved. On that note, does that sort of thing affect your outlook at all or do you just take it all in stride. I am sure I can guess your answer to that question. [smiles]

LANET: Well, as competitors we do not get to decide who wins. Winning is incredible! WIN = What’s Important Now. Being a professional in this sport means so much more than hardware and podium placement. What people out front may not know is that we have a community. Backstage and where we live. We support each other every day. Having said that, I believe you must congratulate your neighbor, with a smile, every time.

BEN: So far you have only competed in the IPL Women’s Athletic and Evening Gown divisions. Why are these your divisions of choice? What drives you to them? Also, are there any other divisions you plan to enter in the future?

LANET: Athletic is preferred for me because I LOVE TO BE BAREFOOT on stage. [smiles] Evening Gown is so elegant. It puts me out of my comfort zone and that is what draws me in. I am comfortable being uncomfortable and learning new things. My team loves choreography and suit design. I have my eye on the Sports Model division as well.

BEN: Very cool. Well you are certainly an exciting competitor and I look forward to what’s to come! At the time of this writing we are just three weeks out from IPL APEX VI. And you are going to be all over that dang stage! What can we expect to see you bring at APEX on November 12th? And any final thoughts?

LANET: Well, I believe that practice makes perfect, so you can bet that I am working hard behind the scenes to bring my best package ever! Having an invitation only opportunity with elite athletes in this organization is an honor and I am so excited about it! I believe that people do not stumble across a magazine like this, an organization like this, an opportunity like this on accident. There’s a reason why you’re here.  If this sparks a fire in hearts to move forward on things that you have been hoping to do for a long time, just do it! It’s never too late to start. You can achieve anything you set your mind to! Thank you so much for the opportunity to share and for being an incredible game-changing organization. NMI