Today, we received the sad news that two-time Ms. Figure Olympia Jenny Lynn-Powell died of a seizure at 49. This is her story.
JENNY LYNN: FITNESS
Born in 1972, Jennifer Lynn grew up in Petaluma, California, north of San Francisco, and credits cheerleading with inspiring her passion for fitness. She began weight-training after high school when she was an aerobics instructor and competitor. As a fitness competitor, she earned her pro card in 2001 at the NPC USA, only one year after her amateur debut. Jenny Lynn next competed in four IFBB Pro League fitness contests, all in 2002, but never finished higher than fifth.
JENNY LYNN: FIGURE
In 2003, the figure division was created, with a focus on less muscle than bodybuilding and without the acrobatic routines of fitness. It was a perfect fit for Jenny Lynn, who promptly won the inaugural Figure International at the 2003 Arnold Classic. She repeated as International champ in 2004 and 2005.
Meanwhile, she rose quickly through the ranks at the Ms. Figure Olympia, third in 2003, second in 2004, and winner in 2005. She was on top of the figure world. She repeated as Ms. Figure Olympia in 2006. Lynn last competed in figure in 2009. In 20 pro figure contests, she won 12 and was in the top three of all but two.
JENNY LYNN-POWELL: OFFSTAGE
After retiring from the stage, Jenny Lynn-Powell focused on network marketing and online coaching. She died in her sleep of a seizure on July 18, 2021, and is survived by her husband, Ricky Powell. The Barbell offers our condolences to her family, friends, and fans.
