‘Sorry for your loss’: Bodybuilding world mourns Arnold Schwarzenegger as his 96-year-old friend dies

The famous Arnold Schwarzenegger is considered one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time. He has won seven Mr. Olympia titles, the second most in sports history (after Lee Haney and Ronnie Coleman).

Nicknamed “The Austrian Oak”, Schwarzenegger has won several other bodybuilding titles and awards. Among all these, Schwarzenegger has earned renowned honor received by no other coachbuilder. He has the prestigious bodybuilding event – The Arnold Classic competition, named after him.

Unfortunately, the co-founder of the event and a close friend of Schwarzenegger – Jim Lorimer, passed away recently. As a special tribute, the legendary bodybuilder shared an emotional message for his late friend on his social media, while fellow athletes reacted in the comments.

Famous bodybuilders and celebrities react to Schwarzenegger’s emotional message

Lorimer, 96, died Nov. 24, 2022. In addition to being co-founder and organizer of the Arnold Classic event, Jim Lorimer also worked as an FBI agent, mayor, national track coach and assumed several other roles.

Together, Lorimer and Arnold Schwarzenegger aimed to make bodybuilding a popular sport. To achieve this, the two founded the Arnold Classic event in 1989, which became the second most prestigious event in bodybuilding. In his tribute, an Instagram post for his lifelong friend, Schwarzenegger wrote: “I’m devastated that I’m no longer sitting with him and hearing his wisdom, or critiquing bodybuilders together, or just laughing and laughing.”

Both Lorimer and Schwarzenegger can be considered bodybuilding pioneers. During the time of ex-US President George Bush, Schwarzenegger was one of its key members. The bodybuilder recalled how his dear friend Lorimer helped him make the right decision as chairman of the Presidential Council on Fitness and Sports.

Many other bodybuilders and celebrities commented on Schwarzenegger’s post and offered their condolences in the comments.

Some legendary bodybuilders like Jay Cutler wrote:

“Sad news RIP”

“I’m so glad I got to meet him during the competition 🙌”

“RIP Jim 🫡”

“This tribute is felt through the heart and soul – to the bone. So powerful, enlightening and so true. 🙌 Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. RIP Jim…🙏🏻. Your spirit lives on ❤️”

While others wrote:

“Life is an exciting adventure! go fast ! live here and now, loving and delighting our loved ones 🔥🔥🔥❤️”

“Sorry for your loss….”

“🙏”

“Blessings”

In his post, Schwarzenegger also sent his thoughts and best wishes to Lorimer’s family.

The friendship of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer

The bodybuilding legend and organizer friendship began in 1970 when Lorimer invited a young Schwarzenegger to an event in Columbus, Ohio.

Soon the two became great friends and struck an unofficial deal to make bodybuilding a popular sport in the United States. In 1989, Schwarzenegger and Lorimer launched the Arnold Classic event, which has become one of the most famous sporting events.

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Schwarzenegger and many other athletes credit Lorimer with the success of bodybuilding and other sports in Columbus and other cities. His passion and love for sports helped him achieve huge goals and succeed in life.