IFBB professional athlete Dawn Charlton has concluded her competitive season with a seventh-place finish at the Battle of the Bay Pro Show in Union City, California, navigating the complex and often contradictory world of bodybuilding judging. The paralegal assistant, standing 5-foot-7, competed in the masters 40-plus bikini division against a field of 15 elite competitors, with the top honors ultimately claimed by Alla Afanasyrva, Chunyan Wilburn, and Ladel Lyn Ladner.
This event marked Charlton’s third competition this year, following a second-place result at the Daytona Pro and a fourth-place finish at the Atlantic Coast Pro in Fort Lauderdale. The California show presented a particular challenge, as Charlton received conflicting advice from judges. After her previous performance, she was instructed to appear leaner; however, at this event, the head judge advised her to present a fuller physique. Charlton described the experience as confusing, noting the highly subjective nature of the sport where different judges prioritize different attributes.
Despite the judging complexities, Charlton emphasized the positive aspects of the competition experience, including networking opportunities and the chance to compete against top-tier athletes. She highlighted the significance of having performed before two head judges for The Olympia, the sport’s most prestigious event, increasing her visibility within the competitive circuit.
Looking ahead, Charlton has already begun preparations for her next competition scheduled for April 2026. Her training focus will involve increasing carbohydrate intake to develop a fuller physical presentation while maintaining her dedicated vegan nutrition plan. Financial considerations remain a factor in her competitive future, as IFBB athletes typically self-fund their competition expenses without governmental support.
The former soccer and track athlete expressed gratitude for her support system, acknowledging her American coach Paul Riveria, mentor Joel Stubbs, her mother Mavis Charlton, friend Elroy Weise, her MacFit training community, colleagues at Providence Law, and her broader network of family and friends.