Alicia Calaway: Ms. Connecticut

Millions of people know of the fittest SURVIVOR through the television series. So much has been written about the show, the game, and the whole phenomenon.

Alicia seems to be breaking the stereotype that women can't be beautiful, smart, strong and feminine. Of course, on camera Alicia often looks more muscular than she actually is. People who meet her in person are often surprised. She has a very athletic build at 5 feet 5 inches tall weighing 125 pounds.

When asked what she eats to stay in shape, "Food! (Smile) I'm not on a low-carb kick. I eat protein foods like egg whites, fish and chicken. I eat carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables. I like protein pancakes made with egg whites for breakfast. I like sushi for dinner. I eat six meals a day. And I drink a lot of water. I don't count calories - I know the right amount of food for me when I see it. I take a vitamin supplement, too."

Alicia Calaway is a personal trainer currently living in Manhattan. Born May 1, 1968 in Bridgeport, Connecticut and raised in Trumbull, Connecticut, where she lived for 26 years. Alicia also lived in Norway for 2 months. Alicia graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City with two Associates in Applied Science degrees, one with honors from the Dean's list. Past professions include a computer graphic artist and aerobics instructor.

Alicia describes herself as charismatic, competent and passionate, and enjoys cooking, entertaining and horseback riding. The accomplishment she is most proud of is when she won the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) Ms. Connecticut Natural Bodybuilding Competition in 1994.

She is certified through National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and is a medical exercise specialist through the American Academy of Health, Fitness and Rehabilitation. She is also CPR certified with the American Red Cross.

Alicia said her biggest inspiration is her mother. She had every reason to complain and be bitter throughout her life, but she is and always has been happy and optimistic. Her mom gave her everything she could growing up. She was not rich, but her mother gave her what kids need most her love and support.

Alicia says she is pleased with how "Survivor II - The Australian Outback" portrayed her. "I can't really say I'm not happy with how I was portrayed. But they showed me only as a serious competitor. And I am a serious competitor - but only during the game."

"When the game's not on, I'm light-hearted and joking around. And they only showed one side of me. People who know me ask, 'Why didn't they ever show you smiling?' "

Alicia is very goal oriented. She thinks most people are at some level and competition is great because it kind of forces you to focus on your goals. And you can always compete with yourself to improve no matter who you are. She considers her toughest competition to be herself!