After competing in Regional NPC Bikini events in 2009, Heather Gonyea broke onto the National 
NPC scene this year at the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio where she earned a respectful top ten finish in a very competitive and large height class line-up. Since then, Heather has been knocking at the door of the Bikini elite, just recently placing 4th at the NPC Jr. Nationals a few weeks ago.
This competitive athlete takes her training seriously and her quest for an IFBB Pro Card is well within reach. This weekend, Heather will be taking the stage at the NPC Team Universe. Will this be her good luck show? We'll have to wait and see. But I must say, this girl is determined and focused. Her physique keeps improving and her stage pressence is better with each outing.
I caught up with Heather last week and here's what she had to say:
Hometown:
I grew up in Byron MI but currently live in Novi MI. I'm a country girl at heart loving life in the city!
Sports Background:
I've been playing sports basically my entire life. My passions have always lied with volleyball and softball. I actually received college scholarships for both and now play competitive coed leagues and tournaments around MI. Also in my off-season I have a passion for boxing and train with one of the world's lightweight champions.
Who trains you?
Bombshell Fitness. They've become my second family and it's been so great having the opportunity to make lifelong friends. I believe being part of a team is always so important no matter what you're striving for. Nothing compares to a solid support group of people going through the same experience.
What got you interested in competing in NPC Bikini?
Health and fitness has always played an important role in my life ever since I was a child. Years of playing sports has given me that competitive drive that has stuck with me then throughout everything I do. I've 
wanted to compete for years in figure but just hadn't followed through with it. Then last year I was speaking with a good friend of mine that competes in bodybuilding and he had mentioned this new category called bikini. I decided now or never and actually just jumped into a local show a couple weeks later just to see what it was all about. At that point I was hooked!
What do yo like best about competing?
The feeling of such a huge accomplishment after each show and knowing that I'm getting closer each time to my ultimate goal of becoming a pro bikini competitor.
What shows have you competed in and how did you do?
2009 Natural Michigan-->3rd Central States--> 3rd Northern Michigan--> 1st Western Michigan--> 1st 2010 The Arnold--> 9th New York Metropolitan--> 2nd NPC Pittsburgh Jr Nationals, Chicago--> 4th
Who in the sport of Bikini serves as your inspiration? One teammate in particular that has stood out to me is Jamie Baird. She has amazing class, sophistication, and pose on stage and serves as a great inspiration to me!
How do you think Bikini Athletes should handle situations where they don't do as well as they expect?
All you can do is work your hardest and bring your best overall package to the table. They need to take any constructive criticism and prepare to be even better a the next show. If you keep pushing, eventually all of the hard work will pay off. You just have to believe in yourself!
What in your Bikini career are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the amazing progress I've made from my first show until my most recent. I've had some great improvements since joining team bombshell and am very excited to see how the rest of my season finishes up.
When your preparing for a show and you have a mental meltdown, who is the first person you call to restore sanity?
I've made some great girlfriends through being a part of team bombshell. We've formed a great support group and if any of us are struggling we will just make a call to a teammate and can usually pick each other up. Nothing compares to talking with someone who is going through the exact same thing you are because they're the only ones who can truly understand how you feel.
What is your ultimate goal in the sport?
My immediate goal is to get my pro card so I can start competing as a pro. My passion has always lied with the health and fitness industry so ultimately I would like to switch to a career in which I can do these things. I love to travel and see the world as well. A wonderful opportunity in life for me would be having the opportunity to help others accomplishment their goals of a healthier, fit lifestyle.
How would you classify your personality type?
A few words to describe me would be outgoing, spontaneous, adventuresome, honest, trustworthy, friendly and reliable. When I find something i'm passionate about I become fearless and tireless until I reach my ultimate goal!
What is up next for you?
I'll be competing at Team Universe working towards my pro card. Stay tuned to see what's to follow! :-)
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