Post by yendor on Aug 1, 2006 18:18:29 GMT -7
Here's part II of our MuscleMag interview from 2002. Enjoy!
Rod
RUSTY JEFFERS: SLUGGING IT OUT!
29. I just noticed something--you’re surrounded by Bodybuilding paraphernalia. Stacks of magazines, weights, supplements, charts, graphs, photos, the whole enchilada. How expensive is it to prepare for a show?
RUSTY: I can’t put an exact dollar amount on it, since there’s a constant stream of money going out. Twelve weeks worth of vitamins, protein powders, gym fees, tanning, clothing--because you wear out sweats like a motherf**ker--and food. God, the food! Three pounds of meat daily, throw in a couple dozen egg whites, odds and ends of fresh veggies and rice, which is the least expensive. Go to Costco, and you’re okay on that! Posing trunks, airfare, hotel, protan, entry fees, and time off from work, and it can really add up. That’s not including any real supplementation, if you know what I mean!
30. Any special technique you use to psyche yourself up?
RUSTY: If I win a show, I’m happy as a clam, for about a day or two. Then, I dedicate myself to a new goal. I do a lot of modeling, and I like to feel good, look good, stay healthy, so I can enjoy training. It’s a huge part of my life, and that’s where the motivation comes into play.
31. Modeling is on every Bodybuilder’s agenda, but it isn’t an easy objective.
RUSTY: I didn’t set out to be a model; competitive Bodybuilding’s always been the name of my game. But, you gotta pay bills and save a little money, and modeling’s been very lucrative. It basically fell into my lap. I started out posing for art classes, doing some local TV commercials, photos, the usual amateur stuff. That led to my being in Playgirl, which opened the door to Colt Studios.
32. You don’t personal train, as a rule?
RUSTY: Sometimes, I do. My palette is varied: I do security work, I coach people in posing and nutrition, I’m there to encourage and support. I don’t like to train people unless they’re at the top of their game and just need my touch. It’s not what I enjoy. nuts, I’d rather be training myself!
33. Playgirl was a bold career move!
RUSTY: Come on, you’re talking to a Bodybuilder, here! You want the truth? I’ve never been self-conscious. Playgirl was a crapshoot. An old girlfriend snapped a few pictures, and--lo and behold--they took a chance on me! The exposure was worth its weight in gold; that’s the first time I got a hint of what it’s like to be a celebrity, even a minor one. You know what? I’d much rather be living naked! I’m very comfortable that way. I don’t necessarily want everyone to look at me, I’d just rather be naked! My friends always ask ‘are you decent’ before they come into my house. I say ‘yeah,’ then throw a towel over my lap. My friend’s grandmother asked to see my legs, so I dropped my sweats, forgetting that I was free-balling it at the time. She ran and shut all the drapes, screaming ‘what will the neighbors say?’
34. Was the subsequent reaction good or bad?
RUSTY: The reaction was more novel, than anything else. My mom took the magazine to work, and she and friends had a good laugh.
35. Many famous Bodybuilders--like Larry Scott; Chris thingyerson; Bill Grant; Tony Pearson, and the late/great Steve Reeves—have done nude physique studies, without any repercussions. But there’s stigma attached to male nudity. Something about a thingy just frightens people.
RUSTY: I haven’t experienced that, not at all. A couple of snickers from my buds, maybe, but once they see my work, usually they say ‘these are awesome, they’re professional.’ It’s not in your face nudity, it’s beautiful and anyone into Bodybuilding realizes it from the first photo. Frankly, with all the horrible stuff going on in our world today, getting riled up about a naked thingy seems d**ned petty.
36. Yeah, but doesn’t the IFBB sanction their athletes who take it off for the camera?
RUSTY: It’s none of their business, legally or otherwise. I have a family to take care of, and I need to think about their future. What government agency tells people not to make money? The IFBB doesn’t hold such power. That would be an infringement of privacy, and I don’t even think it’s legal. If I’d nabbed a multi-million dollar contract, like other sports competitors, then I could see their concern, but the IFBB gives you what, a few thousand? Whoopee!
37. You rock as “Carl Hardwick,” Colt’s ultimate fantasy man. What brought you to the attention of photographer Jim French?
RUSTY: I’m not sure how Jim found me--either at a show or through the Playgirl connection. Wait, I remember! A bud told him about me and showed him my photos, or something like that. At the time, I was doing modeling and commercials. I was in Playgirl about 4 or 5 times, had a few commercials running, and then Colt began pursuing me.
38. Are you locked into any kind of exclusive contract with them?
RUSTY: Yes and no. I don’t have a contract, per se; it’s more like a verbal agreement. If you’ve seen Jim’s work, the lighting, the sharpness, everything, it defines professional. He’s an absolute genius! Being a Colt Man is fun, and you get to meet tons of interesting people. For my appearances, there’s a limo, 5 star accommodations, all the food I want, etc. Jim does all the photography, with the same crew, so it’s a comfortable situation. He knows how to get the absolute best in photography.
39. You’re married with a family, living an everyday life far removed from the eroticism of Colt. How do you keep them separate?
RUSTY: I’ve never had any problem separating the two. Here’s how it goes: I’m Carl at appearances and signings, and when I get home, I’m Rusty. I don’t alter my personality at all, or go phony, or act any differently. I believe Mark Twain said if you always tell the truth, you won’t have to remember any lies. Well, I’m a lousy liar!
40. Are you recognized as “Carl” at competitions? That honkin’ moustache is pretty hard to miss!
RUSTY: Constantly. And that’s the only time it sucks. A Bodybuilding fan will come up and be happy to see you and shake your hand. A “Carl” fan follows you around, keeps staring at you, and finally asks if you’re Carl Hardwick. Sometimes, they treat you like a star, which can be a bit embarrassing. I appreciate their support, and it’s a great sentiment, but a Bodybuilding show is not the appropriate time.
41. How do you and your wife handle the situation?
RUSTY (sighing): Normally, I’m just nice, like I always am. I might cut them short and tell them this isn’t the time or the place; I’m in my competition world, right now. They usually understand and are respectful. There are a few who aren’t, especially the ones who think they know you. Those are the worst. Some have even treated my wife like nuts! What they don’t realize is, Francy’s my manager!
42. Really, though, you’re lucky. Not every Amateur Bodybuilder has a hook to get their stories told. That’s what Carl has given you.
RUSTY: I’m aware of that, you can bet your ass! Bodybuilding could never get me the exposure I’ve had from modeling. I only wish the paychecks were steadier!
43. The next logical step would be film and/or TV. Any plans?
RUSTY: Yes, yes, yes! I’d love to do a film! Alas, the entertainment world doesn’t seem to want intelligent Bodybuilders. You’d think we’d have moved beyond stereotypes, but you still see Bodybuilders in stupid roles, like the Howard Stern beach show.
44. There’s only one Bodybuilder who’s conquered that medium, and he goes by the name of Ah-nuld.
RUSTY: Yeah, Arnold has the touch, a combination of beef, brains, and savvy. I admire his abilities to no end.
45. Competitive Bodybuilding can be a fickle endeavor. Even if you make it to Pro, there’s no guarantee you’ll last. Some people make a big splash, and the next year, we’re asking ‘hey, whatever became of--?’
RUSTY: I know, I know, it’s terrible. I’m aware of all the drawbacks, but--in the end--I just love lifting. I love how my body, mind, and personality have changed for the better. When you’re involved in something like competitive Bodybuilding, there’s a very fine line between where you end and where it begins. The gray areas are blurred. I could give this all up tomorrow, if I wanted to…but I don’t want to. So, I’ll keep going, despite the odds.
46. The deaths of Mike and Ray Mentzer must’ve shaken you up.
RUSTY: I could not believe it! When I heard the news, I just sat there in complete, mind-numbing shock. Mike was my absolute idol. It’s been very difficult for me to absorb. And the news about Ray! At first, I’d heard he’d killed himself. Oh, my God, I thought, the poor guy. I totally preach the Mentzer Heavy Duty theory. I have a cool picture of him and me after I won the Ironman heavyweight division. At least, they went in their sleep. Their sister is probably grieving like hell, but they’re in a much happier, no doubt healthier place.
47. So many Bodybuilders burn themselves out, or worse--they die. Happens more often than we’d like to think.
RUSTY: Well, to be in your best condition is hard. Can you imagine trying to maintain that for an extended period of time? It would be the most grueling, impossible task a human being could ever dream of doing! No other sport demands so much. You can’t leave the playing field. Ever. You are the playing field!
48. A man your size can be an intimidating sight. Are there any drawbacks to being jacked to the max?
RUSTY (grins): No, I don’t think so. I feel comfortable in my skin. People ogle me, true, and you might consider that an annoyance, but I love it. On the beach, everyone wants to take my picture with them, or his or her friends, wives, etc. At bars, I’ve been challenged to fight, but the other guy is usually drunk. And stupid. I hate the dudes who bump into you on purpose because they know you’re not gonna hit them! That’s the short man syndrome, the man who can’t make any gains in the gym, so he blames you.
49. Has anyone ever said ‘ewwww, your body is nasty! I hate big muscles,’ yada-yada?
RUSTY: Those are the people who ask for training advice and then argue with you about it. Left-handed compliments can come your way, too, stuff like ‘you’re really muscular, but I don’t like that.’ If someone is negative to your face, it’s easy to see where they’re coming from. Can you say jealousy?
50. How about Rusty Jeffers’ leisure time proclivities. What do you do to let off steam?
RUSTY: Sports. I am seriously into sports, like a f**kin’ madman. Ice Hockey is a big one! Phoenix Coyotes Keith Tkuchuck is a great guy--we’ve chatted on occasion, about nutrition and training. I’ve met a lot of the players, and it makes it more fun to watch the games.
51. You’re well spoken, laid-back, aggressive when you need to be and even a bit philosophical. How much of that has been generated for this interview?
RUSTY: Whoa, you hit ‘em hard, Rod! I’m all those things you describe and more…none of it is a put-on. I’m not that good an actor! Hate fakes and would never attempt to be one, especially during my first interview for an international publication. When I look in the mirror, I want to see me, not some public relations creation.
52. Oh, yeah? Who’s the real Rusty?
RUSTY: The real Rusty Jeffers is a happy, decent person. I’m into my house, my family, I like to stay home, go out to eat lots, and I mean lots, of food. Cheesecake factories should own stock in me! I like microbrews, giant hamburgers, giant steaks, and humongous burritos! As you can probably tell, I have a slight disorder with food. But I never get fat! I train it off.
53. C’mon, there’s more. Don’t hold back!
RUSTY: God, you’re merciless! Ok, I’m also a hopeless romantic. I write and sing love songs for my wife. I bring her flowers all the time. I love big sweatshirts! I don’t scare easily, and I like to beat the hell out of people…just kidding! I don’t know. Most people tell Francy I look angry. We both laugh at that. She says I have an intense personality. When I want something, I go for it. Not into materialistic things, I’d rather do things, like hiking, surfing, ice skating, skateboarding, yes, still…I go with my 8-year old daughter. I like to build stuff at my house. I’m remodeling now and just built an arbor and planted grapevines beneath it. Very cool.
54. Look into the crystal ball and predict what you’ll be doing in ten years.
RUSTY (thoughtfully): Ten years, an entire decade. I see myself lounging in my hammock, my favorite place, with a good brew. And a cigar! And 10 kids at my feet, bringing me sandwiches and cookies!
55. Given the drawbacks, disappointments, and minimal rewards of Bodybuilding, why do you keep going up to bat?
RUSTY: If you don’t have focus, you’ll never realize any goal. Nutritionist, physical therapist, trainer, doctor, pharmacist, a choreographer, and a DJ…these are just a few of the hats you must wear to do well as a competitive Bodybuilder. I’m extremely, and I mean extremely, driven. If I want something bad enough, I’ll sacrifice everything to get it. Look what most people sacrifice for one show! I’ve been in this game since 1975, and most people are in it for 1-4 shows, tops. I’m still not Pro, not by my doing, but I get better each time.
56. How’s 2002 shaping up?
RUSTY: Well…I may do the NPC San Diego something or other show, because--as usual--I’ll have to requalify for the USA. No matter that I’ve won everything I’ve entered except the USA, I have to keep re-qualifying. There’s no one more qualified to enter, yet I have to go through the travel, time off from work, not to mention weeks of dieting and drugs for the show. I’ve already beaten everyone in the last USA’s top ten, but there’s that word: requalify. A dirty word to me.
57. Any modeling shoots on the slate?
RUSTY: My modeling opportunities get more profitable around a show, so it’s a double-edged sword. I’ve got to spend money to make money. I’ll be shooting for Colt this summer, don’t know exactly when, though. I’ll keep you posted.
58. Rusty, my man, our time together has been too short! Best of luck to you. And get that Pro card, ya hear?
RUSTY: I don’t know about you, kiddo, but I am starvin’! What’s say we blow this joint and catch a burger!
INTERVIEW CONDUCTED SPRING 2002
Rusty Jeffers can be reached at:
Rusty Jeffers
P.O. Box 72323
Phoenix, AZ 85050
RUSTY JEFFERS’
COMPETITIVE RECORD
1981-1983 Teenage Arizona, Overall Winner
1987 AAU Copper Classic Heavyweight and Overall
1987 AAU Mr. Tucson, Runner-up, Heavyweight
1988 AAU Mr. Tucson, Overall Winner
1989 AAU Mr. Arizona, Heavyweight and Overall
1990 NPC Orange County, Runner-up, Heavyweight
1991 NPC Palm Springs Heavyweight and Overall
1991 AAU Grand Canyon, 3rd Heavyweight
1992 AAU Southwest Open, 2nd Heavyweight
1992 NPC Ironman, 4th Place and Overall
1994 NPC Ironman, Heavyweight Winner
1998 USA, 9th place, Heavyweight
1999 Arizona Heavyweight and Overall (had to requalify 3 weeks prior to USA)
2001 Mid-USA, Heavyweight and Overall
Rod
RUSTY JEFFERS: SLUGGING IT OUT!
29. I just noticed something--you’re surrounded by Bodybuilding paraphernalia. Stacks of magazines, weights, supplements, charts, graphs, photos, the whole enchilada. How expensive is it to prepare for a show?
RUSTY: I can’t put an exact dollar amount on it, since there’s a constant stream of money going out. Twelve weeks worth of vitamins, protein powders, gym fees, tanning, clothing--because you wear out sweats like a motherf**ker--and food. God, the food! Three pounds of meat daily, throw in a couple dozen egg whites, odds and ends of fresh veggies and rice, which is the least expensive. Go to Costco, and you’re okay on that! Posing trunks, airfare, hotel, protan, entry fees, and time off from work, and it can really add up. That’s not including any real supplementation, if you know what I mean!
30. Any special technique you use to psyche yourself up?
RUSTY: If I win a show, I’m happy as a clam, for about a day or two. Then, I dedicate myself to a new goal. I do a lot of modeling, and I like to feel good, look good, stay healthy, so I can enjoy training. It’s a huge part of my life, and that’s where the motivation comes into play.
31. Modeling is on every Bodybuilder’s agenda, but it isn’t an easy objective.
RUSTY: I didn’t set out to be a model; competitive Bodybuilding’s always been the name of my game. But, you gotta pay bills and save a little money, and modeling’s been very lucrative. It basically fell into my lap. I started out posing for art classes, doing some local TV commercials, photos, the usual amateur stuff. That led to my being in Playgirl, which opened the door to Colt Studios.
32. You don’t personal train, as a rule?
RUSTY: Sometimes, I do. My palette is varied: I do security work, I coach people in posing and nutrition, I’m there to encourage and support. I don’t like to train people unless they’re at the top of their game and just need my touch. It’s not what I enjoy. nuts, I’d rather be training myself!
33. Playgirl was a bold career move!
RUSTY: Come on, you’re talking to a Bodybuilder, here! You want the truth? I’ve never been self-conscious. Playgirl was a crapshoot. An old girlfriend snapped a few pictures, and--lo and behold--they took a chance on me! The exposure was worth its weight in gold; that’s the first time I got a hint of what it’s like to be a celebrity, even a minor one. You know what? I’d much rather be living naked! I’m very comfortable that way. I don’t necessarily want everyone to look at me, I’d just rather be naked! My friends always ask ‘are you decent’ before they come into my house. I say ‘yeah,’ then throw a towel over my lap. My friend’s grandmother asked to see my legs, so I dropped my sweats, forgetting that I was free-balling it at the time. She ran and shut all the drapes, screaming ‘what will the neighbors say?’
34. Was the subsequent reaction good or bad?
RUSTY: The reaction was more novel, than anything else. My mom took the magazine to work, and she and friends had a good laugh.
35. Many famous Bodybuilders--like Larry Scott; Chris thingyerson; Bill Grant; Tony Pearson, and the late/great Steve Reeves—have done nude physique studies, without any repercussions. But there’s stigma attached to male nudity. Something about a thingy just frightens people.
RUSTY: I haven’t experienced that, not at all. A couple of snickers from my buds, maybe, but once they see my work, usually they say ‘these are awesome, they’re professional.’ It’s not in your face nudity, it’s beautiful and anyone into Bodybuilding realizes it from the first photo. Frankly, with all the horrible stuff going on in our world today, getting riled up about a naked thingy seems d**ned petty.
36. Yeah, but doesn’t the IFBB sanction their athletes who take it off for the camera?
RUSTY: It’s none of their business, legally or otherwise. I have a family to take care of, and I need to think about their future. What government agency tells people not to make money? The IFBB doesn’t hold such power. That would be an infringement of privacy, and I don’t even think it’s legal. If I’d nabbed a multi-million dollar contract, like other sports competitors, then I could see their concern, but the IFBB gives you what, a few thousand? Whoopee!
37. You rock as “Carl Hardwick,” Colt’s ultimate fantasy man. What brought you to the attention of photographer Jim French?
RUSTY: I’m not sure how Jim found me--either at a show or through the Playgirl connection. Wait, I remember! A bud told him about me and showed him my photos, or something like that. At the time, I was doing modeling and commercials. I was in Playgirl about 4 or 5 times, had a few commercials running, and then Colt began pursuing me.
38. Are you locked into any kind of exclusive contract with them?
RUSTY: Yes and no. I don’t have a contract, per se; it’s more like a verbal agreement. If you’ve seen Jim’s work, the lighting, the sharpness, everything, it defines professional. He’s an absolute genius! Being a Colt Man is fun, and you get to meet tons of interesting people. For my appearances, there’s a limo, 5 star accommodations, all the food I want, etc. Jim does all the photography, with the same crew, so it’s a comfortable situation. He knows how to get the absolute best in photography.
39. You’re married with a family, living an everyday life far removed from the eroticism of Colt. How do you keep them separate?
RUSTY: I’ve never had any problem separating the two. Here’s how it goes: I’m Carl at appearances and signings, and when I get home, I’m Rusty. I don’t alter my personality at all, or go phony, or act any differently. I believe Mark Twain said if you always tell the truth, you won’t have to remember any lies. Well, I’m a lousy liar!
40. Are you recognized as “Carl” at competitions? That honkin’ moustache is pretty hard to miss!
RUSTY: Constantly. And that’s the only time it sucks. A Bodybuilding fan will come up and be happy to see you and shake your hand. A “Carl” fan follows you around, keeps staring at you, and finally asks if you’re Carl Hardwick. Sometimes, they treat you like a star, which can be a bit embarrassing. I appreciate their support, and it’s a great sentiment, but a Bodybuilding show is not the appropriate time.
41. How do you and your wife handle the situation?
RUSTY (sighing): Normally, I’m just nice, like I always am. I might cut them short and tell them this isn’t the time or the place; I’m in my competition world, right now. They usually understand and are respectful. There are a few who aren’t, especially the ones who think they know you. Those are the worst. Some have even treated my wife like nuts! What they don’t realize is, Francy’s my manager!
42. Really, though, you’re lucky. Not every Amateur Bodybuilder has a hook to get their stories told. That’s what Carl has given you.
RUSTY: I’m aware of that, you can bet your ass! Bodybuilding could never get me the exposure I’ve had from modeling. I only wish the paychecks were steadier!
43. The next logical step would be film and/or TV. Any plans?
RUSTY: Yes, yes, yes! I’d love to do a film! Alas, the entertainment world doesn’t seem to want intelligent Bodybuilders. You’d think we’d have moved beyond stereotypes, but you still see Bodybuilders in stupid roles, like the Howard Stern beach show.
44. There’s only one Bodybuilder who’s conquered that medium, and he goes by the name of Ah-nuld.
RUSTY: Yeah, Arnold has the touch, a combination of beef, brains, and savvy. I admire his abilities to no end.
45. Competitive Bodybuilding can be a fickle endeavor. Even if you make it to Pro, there’s no guarantee you’ll last. Some people make a big splash, and the next year, we’re asking ‘hey, whatever became of--?’
RUSTY: I know, I know, it’s terrible. I’m aware of all the drawbacks, but--in the end--I just love lifting. I love how my body, mind, and personality have changed for the better. When you’re involved in something like competitive Bodybuilding, there’s a very fine line between where you end and where it begins. The gray areas are blurred. I could give this all up tomorrow, if I wanted to…but I don’t want to. So, I’ll keep going, despite the odds.
46. The deaths of Mike and Ray Mentzer must’ve shaken you up.
RUSTY: I could not believe it! When I heard the news, I just sat there in complete, mind-numbing shock. Mike was my absolute idol. It’s been very difficult for me to absorb. And the news about Ray! At first, I’d heard he’d killed himself. Oh, my God, I thought, the poor guy. I totally preach the Mentzer Heavy Duty theory. I have a cool picture of him and me after I won the Ironman heavyweight division. At least, they went in their sleep. Their sister is probably grieving like hell, but they’re in a much happier, no doubt healthier place.
47. So many Bodybuilders burn themselves out, or worse--they die. Happens more often than we’d like to think.
RUSTY: Well, to be in your best condition is hard. Can you imagine trying to maintain that for an extended period of time? It would be the most grueling, impossible task a human being could ever dream of doing! No other sport demands so much. You can’t leave the playing field. Ever. You are the playing field!
48. A man your size can be an intimidating sight. Are there any drawbacks to being jacked to the max?
RUSTY (grins): No, I don’t think so. I feel comfortable in my skin. People ogle me, true, and you might consider that an annoyance, but I love it. On the beach, everyone wants to take my picture with them, or his or her friends, wives, etc. At bars, I’ve been challenged to fight, but the other guy is usually drunk. And stupid. I hate the dudes who bump into you on purpose because they know you’re not gonna hit them! That’s the short man syndrome, the man who can’t make any gains in the gym, so he blames you.
49. Has anyone ever said ‘ewwww, your body is nasty! I hate big muscles,’ yada-yada?
RUSTY: Those are the people who ask for training advice and then argue with you about it. Left-handed compliments can come your way, too, stuff like ‘you’re really muscular, but I don’t like that.’ If someone is negative to your face, it’s easy to see where they’re coming from. Can you say jealousy?
50. How about Rusty Jeffers’ leisure time proclivities. What do you do to let off steam?
RUSTY: Sports. I am seriously into sports, like a f**kin’ madman. Ice Hockey is a big one! Phoenix Coyotes Keith Tkuchuck is a great guy--we’ve chatted on occasion, about nutrition and training. I’ve met a lot of the players, and it makes it more fun to watch the games.
51. You’re well spoken, laid-back, aggressive when you need to be and even a bit philosophical. How much of that has been generated for this interview?
RUSTY: Whoa, you hit ‘em hard, Rod! I’m all those things you describe and more…none of it is a put-on. I’m not that good an actor! Hate fakes and would never attempt to be one, especially during my first interview for an international publication. When I look in the mirror, I want to see me, not some public relations creation.
52. Oh, yeah? Who’s the real Rusty?
RUSTY: The real Rusty Jeffers is a happy, decent person. I’m into my house, my family, I like to stay home, go out to eat lots, and I mean lots, of food. Cheesecake factories should own stock in me! I like microbrews, giant hamburgers, giant steaks, and humongous burritos! As you can probably tell, I have a slight disorder with food. But I never get fat! I train it off.
53. C’mon, there’s more. Don’t hold back!
RUSTY: God, you’re merciless! Ok, I’m also a hopeless romantic. I write and sing love songs for my wife. I bring her flowers all the time. I love big sweatshirts! I don’t scare easily, and I like to beat the hell out of people…just kidding! I don’t know. Most people tell Francy I look angry. We both laugh at that. She says I have an intense personality. When I want something, I go for it. Not into materialistic things, I’d rather do things, like hiking, surfing, ice skating, skateboarding, yes, still…I go with my 8-year old daughter. I like to build stuff at my house. I’m remodeling now and just built an arbor and planted grapevines beneath it. Very cool.
54. Look into the crystal ball and predict what you’ll be doing in ten years.
RUSTY (thoughtfully): Ten years, an entire decade. I see myself lounging in my hammock, my favorite place, with a good brew. And a cigar! And 10 kids at my feet, bringing me sandwiches and cookies!
55. Given the drawbacks, disappointments, and minimal rewards of Bodybuilding, why do you keep going up to bat?
RUSTY: If you don’t have focus, you’ll never realize any goal. Nutritionist, physical therapist, trainer, doctor, pharmacist, a choreographer, and a DJ…these are just a few of the hats you must wear to do well as a competitive Bodybuilder. I’m extremely, and I mean extremely, driven. If I want something bad enough, I’ll sacrifice everything to get it. Look what most people sacrifice for one show! I’ve been in this game since 1975, and most people are in it for 1-4 shows, tops. I’m still not Pro, not by my doing, but I get better each time.
56. How’s 2002 shaping up?
RUSTY: Well…I may do the NPC San Diego something or other show, because--as usual--I’ll have to requalify for the USA. No matter that I’ve won everything I’ve entered except the USA, I have to keep re-qualifying. There’s no one more qualified to enter, yet I have to go through the travel, time off from work, not to mention weeks of dieting and drugs for the show. I’ve already beaten everyone in the last USA’s top ten, but there’s that word: requalify. A dirty word to me.
57. Any modeling shoots on the slate?
RUSTY: My modeling opportunities get more profitable around a show, so it’s a double-edged sword. I’ve got to spend money to make money. I’ll be shooting for Colt this summer, don’t know exactly when, though. I’ll keep you posted.
58. Rusty, my man, our time together has been too short! Best of luck to you. And get that Pro card, ya hear?
RUSTY: I don’t know about you, kiddo, but I am starvin’! What’s say we blow this joint and catch a burger!
INTERVIEW CONDUCTED SPRING 2002
Rusty Jeffers can be reached at:
Rusty Jeffers
P.O. Box 72323
Phoenix, AZ 85050
RUSTY JEFFERS’
COMPETITIVE RECORD
1981-1983 Teenage Arizona, Overall Winner
1987 AAU Copper Classic Heavyweight and Overall
1987 AAU Mr. Tucson, Runner-up, Heavyweight
1988 AAU Mr. Tucson, Overall Winner
1989 AAU Mr. Arizona, Heavyweight and Overall
1990 NPC Orange County, Runner-up, Heavyweight
1991 NPC Palm Springs Heavyweight and Overall
1991 AAU Grand Canyon, 3rd Heavyweight
1992 AAU Southwest Open, 2nd Heavyweight
1992 NPC Ironman, 4th Place and Overall
1994 NPC Ironman, Heavyweight Winner
1998 USA, 9th place, Heavyweight
1999 Arizona Heavyweight and Overall (had to requalify 3 weeks prior to USA)
2001 Mid-USA, Heavyweight and Overall
