No other bodybuilder has ever received the renowned honor Arnold Schwarzenegger has. He has the prestigious bodybuilding event -The Arnold Classic competition, named after him.
Jim Lorimer, who co-founded the event and was a personal friend of Schwarzenegger, sadly passed away lately.
As a particular homage, the famed bodybuilder wrote an emotional statement for his late friend on his social media, while his fellow athletes replied in the comments.
Celebrities and well-known bodybuilders respond to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s moving post
Lorimer, aged 96, passed away on November 24th, 2022. Jim Lorimer served in a number of positions in addition to co-founding and organizing the Arnold Classic competition, including FBI agent, mayor, and national track coach.
The goal of Lorimer and Arnold Schwarzenegger was to popularize bodybuilding. To make it happen, the two launched the Arnold Classic event in 1989, which became the second most prominent bodybuilding tournament.
Schwarzenegger, a lifelong friend, was honored on Instagram with a tribute that read: “I am devastated that I won’t sit with him again and hear his wisdom, or critique bodybuilders with him, or just laugh and laugh.”
Both Lorimer and Schwarzenegger might be regarded as pioneers of bodybuilding. Schwarzenegger served as one of President George H. W. Bush’s most important advisors during that time. The bodybuilder recalled how his dear friend Lorimer had helped him make the right decision as a chairman of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports.
Many other bodybuilders and celebrities commented on Schwarzenegger’s post and paid their condolences in the comments.
Several illustrious bodybuilders, including Jay Cutler, wrote:
“Sad news RIP”
I’m so happy I got to meet him at the competition.
“R.I.P. Jim”
“That tribute is felt through heart and soul – all the way to the bones. Such a strong message that is also quite true. Our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. RIP Jim…. Your spirit lives on ”
While others wrote:
“life is a wonderful adventure! flies by quickly! Let’s adore and thrill our loved ones in the here and now.
“Sorry for your loss….”
“Blessings”
Schwarzenegger also expressed his condolences and best wishes to the Lorimer family in his post.
Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer’s friendship
The bond between the promoter and the bodybuilding superstar began in 1970 when Lorimer invited a young Schwarzenegger to an event in Columbus, Ohio.
Soon, the two became great friends and made an unofficial agreement to make bodybuilding a known sport in the States. In 1989, Schwarzenegger and Lorimer started the Arnold Classic event, which became one of the most famous sporting events.
Schwarzenegger and many other sportsmen credit Lorimer for the success of bodybuilding and other sports in Columbus and other locations. His drive and love for athletics helped him reach big goals and achievements in life.
