I've become a huge fan of Fouad Abiad, who qualified for the Mr. Olympia contest last night at the Europa Supershow.  The judges probably rewarded Fouad for the things that make me a fan: his incredible conditioning, his work ethic, and his ability to completely dominate some poses.  Fouad was an impressive bodybuilder when he won the Canadian Nationals but he didn't stop at impressive, he's made amazing advances from his first pro contest (Atlantic City 06--top photo) to the Europa (bottom photo) 

Bigger, harder, and the smile makes me think maybe even happier.  I'm looking forward to hearing from Fouad's blog whether he'll compete in the Olympia this year or wait a year and compete next year.  Given how many injuries are this year in advance of the Olympia I'm thinking he'll be in Vegas this October -- which would make for one hellishly long competing season for him but you've got to strike when the iron's hot, right?