Sarah, a senior at Clemson University, didn’t just notice a gap in campus culture—she filled it. From founding the Women’s Weightlifting Club to starting a yoga club, her drive stems from a desire to create spaces where women feel empowered, supported, and seen. She spoke candidly about how the gym environment can feel unwelcoming for women and how societal pressures often discourage women from weightlifting. These experiences fueled her determination to build communities where strength isn’t just physical but also communal and emotional.

As Sarah shared her journey, I reflected on my own experience in bodybuilding. Like Sarah, I’ve faced questions and doubts from others—comments about femininity, capability, and why I chose this path. But like her, I know the power of trusting the vision. Bodybuilding isn’t just about aesthetics or competition; it’s about finding inner strength and building a community where people uplift each other.

This is why I’m so passionate about the OCB Stone Classic. It’s more than a show—it’s a celebration of every competitor’s journey, a place where camaraderie thrives. Sarah’s words resonated with this ethos: “Trust in yourself, trust in others, even if it feels unnatural. The vision will grow beyond you.”

Hearing about her club’s evolution, from struggles to finding community support, reminded me of why we do what we do. Her story is proof that when women support women, magic happens. It’s not just about lifting weights—it’s about lifting each other.

As we prepare for another OCB Stone Classic, I’m inspired to carry Sarah’s message forward: fitness isn’t just about building bodies; it’s about building connections. Whether you’re stepping on stage, joining a gym for the first time, or starting a club like Sarah did, the journey is yours to own, and the community you find along the way makes it all worthwhile.

Here’s to more spaces where women find strength and more moments where we remind ourselves—and each other—that we belong.

See you at the show,
Yvonne Harper
Promoter, OCB Stone Classic

and bodybuilding, symbolizing the dedication he’s poured into his passions. Whether training in Brazil or competing as a white belt and quickly rising to blue belt status, Marcio learned early on the importance of discipline—a trait that seamlessly carried over to his bodybuilding journey.

But it wasn’t just martial arts that shaped Marcio. His love for weightlifting began in his early teens. What started with push-ups and pull-ups soon evolved into a lifelong relationship with the gym. For him, weightlifting isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a grounding force, a way to stay mentally and physically strong.

Marcio’s leap into bodybuilding competition was sparked by seeing a friend compete at the OCB Stone Classic. “I can do that,” he thought—and he did, walking away with a pro card. His focus now is on dialing in for the Men’s Physique Pro division, aiming to compete at upcoming shows in Atlantic City and beyond.

One of Marcio’s standout lessons? It’s not just the gym that matters; it’s what you do in the other 22 hours of the day. From nutrition to rest, every choice builds the foundation for success. And while he’s currently taking a break from jiu-jitsu to focus on bodybuilding, Marcio’s love for both disciplines is evident.

His advice to anyone hesitating to pursue their goals? “Shut everything else up and just go do it.” Whether it’s stepping on stage, hitting the mats, or pursuing any passion, Marcio’s story reminds us that the only limits are the ones we place on ourselves.

We can’t wait to see what’s next for him—and judging by the empty spaces on his trophy shelf, Marcio has plenty more wins ahead.

Stay tuned for updates as he takes on the pro circuit. Let’s cheer him on together!