The “Ivory Latino” challenges for the gold at IFPA Pro USA
Date: 13-07-2011
Posted by: Anabolic Info TeamUnited States |
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Still more pros are coming out of the woodwork to challenge for the $10,000 in prize money at the IFPA Pro USA Natural Bodybuilding & Figure Championships in Sacramento this weekend. Latest to enter the fray is the popular Alberto Nunez, better known as the “Ivory Latino” to the bodybuilding public.
A San Francisco native, Alberto, 28, grew up in the Mission and Excelsior Districts and will probably have a flock of fans cruising north on Interstate 680 to see their hometown hero in action. At 5’9” and 160 pounds, he will not be the biggest contestant on stage, but the judges won’t be using a tape measure to determine the champion – they will be looking to see who has the best overall physique - and Alberto’s imposing symmetry and muscularity will definitely give them reason to look twice. This guy has some serious muscles that belie his small stature, and his presence will force the rest of the field to be in their best shape ever, so look out because “The Ivory Latino” is feeling some good vibrations!
Alberto lettered in track and field at Phillip and Sala Burton Academic High School in the City. “My favorite track and field highlight was coming in third in the All City Track and Field Championships after ripping my shorts coming out of the blocks,” he laughs. “It’s all about making lemonade out of a lemon when you have to.”
How did that eventually translate into bodybuilding? “I needed a competitive outlet after I graduated,” he recalls, “and I was fascinated with how natural athletes were able to manipulate their bodies in such ways. I love structure and goal setting, and this sport offers both like no other.”
A string of three consecutive victories – 1st in the INBA 13th Annual Silver & Black Muscle; 1st in the NGA Mr. Natural California; and 1st in the INBF Capital City Bodybuilding – vaulted Alberto into the natural bodybuilding spotlight in 2008 and quickly earned him the name of the “Ivory Latino” for his unique coloring and sinewy physique that – together - simulated an ivory sculpture.
These three triumphs were preceded by winning his weight class at the ANBC APA Iron Gladiators of the West Powerlifting Championships just 6 months earlier, so this macho muscleman is more than just looks – his muscles are the real thing.
Alberto is a fitness consultant at 3D Muscle Journey, a consortium of 100% natural bodybuilders that provides contest coverage, interviews, informational articles, videos, and Q&A columns on natural bodybuilding, weight lifting science, training, nutrition and strategies for competition. Team 3DMJ also provides coaching and consulting to natural bodybuilders, powerlifters and serious weight lifters of all types.
“It is my job and my passion,” says Alberto enthusiastically. “I am fortunate to be able to say that I love what I do every single day!”
Alberto is also part time student at nearby Chabot College and trains at 24-Hour Fitness in Hayward.
His advice to others? “Focus on yourself and your goals. Let everything else fall where it may. Not everyone can be the best, but shame on you if are not your best.” Spoken from the perspective of someone who always strives to be the best that he can be.
(The pro event will be held in conjunction with the NANBF California Muscle Mayhem Amateur Natural Bodybuilding & Figure Championships at the Sheldon High School Performing Arts Center in Sacramento. For futher information, call 916.354.1769.)
