You Won't Believe How This Parkland Realtor Is Changing Lives in a Shocking National Fitness Contest!

Nicola “Nicki” Riettie, a 57-year-old Realtor and fitness enthusiast based in Parkland, Florida, is making significant strides in the 2026 Ms. Health & Fitness competition, all while championing a cause close to her heart—supporting families and children battling cancer. Riettie's participation not only signifies her personal fitness journey but also aims to raise awareness for the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing both financial and emotional assistance to families affected by pediatric cancer, alongside funding vital research.

The national winner of this competition will not only grace the cover of Muscle & Fitness Hers magazine but will also receive a $20,000 prize and a platform to advocate for health and resilience. For Riettie, however, the title represents much more than just a crown. “I grew up settling for mediocrity,” she explained. “When I moved to the United States 26 years ago, I realized that if I was willing to do the work, I could achieve far more than I ever imagined.”

Riettie’s journey in fitness reflects her belief in perseverance and strength. Training under Coach Ron Tal El at Crunch Fitness – Coral Ridge, she emphasizes long-term health and strength, marking milestones along the way. One such achievement is being able to hold a dead hang for over two minutes, a feat she describes as symbolic of resilience. “At 57, I can hang from a bar for over two minutes. For me, that’s symbolic. It reminds me that I can hold on, even when things are uncomfortable, difficult, or uncertain,” she said.

Citing her faith as a central pillar in her growth, Riettie remarked, “The potential inside of me is something God placed there. To never even try to realize it would feel like ingratitude.” Her personal connection to her advocacy is profound; her nephew, diagnosed with cancer at age 12, is now a survivor and athlete himself. “His care would not have been possible without support,” she reflected. “That’s why raising awareness and helping families through the B+ Foundation matters so much to me.”

As the competition progresses, Riettie continues her rigorous training while sharing her story with supporters in Parkland and Coral Springs. She hopes to use her potential victory—just weeks before her 58th birthday—to send a powerful message to women of all ages: “Winning would represent far more than a crown or a cover. It would show women everywhere that we do not have to shrink with age. We can become stronger, bolder, and more confident in every season of life.”

Riettie's story is a reminder that strength is not just physical; it’s also about resilience in the face of personal challenges. “This isn’t about perfection,” she concluded. “It’s about refusing to shrink.” As she moves closer to the finals, she invites everyone to support her journey—a journey that symbolizes hope, strength, and advocacy for those who need it most.

To cast your vote for Riettie in the Ms. Health & Fitness competition, visit the official voting page.