With body aglow, muscles tight and a chiseled physique, Guam’s Dannel Munoz posed and flexed to a second-place finish late last month in the National Physique Committee Masters USA Men’s Bodybuilding – Masters 45+ Heavyweight division in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Munoz also placed sixth in the Men’s Bodybuilding – Masters 40+ Heavyweight division, and seventh in the Men’s Bodybuilding – Masters 35+ Heavyweight division.
“I’m definitely pleased with the second-place finish. The level of talent in any division is impressive, and earning second among such dedicated athletes is something I don’t take lightly,” Munoz said. “Anytime I can step on that stage and present the best version of myself, I feel truly grateful.”
As the competition reached the final stages, the top two spots on the podium were decided by mere millimeters – a battle of will and poise between Munoz and Joey Hernandez.
“The difference between first and second can be very subtle, such as conditioning or presentation,” Munoz said. “Joey is a terrific competitor and came in extremely well prepared and he earned that spot. I have a lot of respect for him and for anyone who commits to this sport,” Munoz said.
Leading up to the NPC Masters USA competition, Munoz competed and qualified for the showdown in Las Vegas. But after a performance at NPC Universe in New Jersey where he did not place, Munoz was unsure how he would perform in Las Vegas. But with the past behind him, as is always the case with the past, Munoz wiped the slate clean and competed with heart and determination.
“Coming in second in my division in Vegas felt like a huge accomplishment on its own. Now that the show is behind me, I’m taking some time off to rest and recover and focus on my family,” said Munoz, adding that “the preparation took months of strict routine, diet and sacrifices most people don’t see.
“I’m not entirely sure what lies next. Right now, my focus is on continuing to improve – learn and explore where my dedication can take me.”
In the world of competitive bodybuilding, no man is an island. Munoz, not alone in this endeavor, received tremendous support.
“I want to thank the people who’ve supported me from the very beginning. My family, Phil, Dr. D’s Nutrition, Ray Martinez from Calvo’s Insurance, friends, and my gym community who have always supported me and believed in me,” Munoz said.
Munoz also thanked coach Milos Sarcev for his guidance, knowledge and honesty.
He also thanked his wife, Autumn, who “encouraged me on the hard days and pushed me to be better, even when I doubted it,” he said.
“Their support means everything to me.”