Arnold Schwarzenegger is considered one of the most important figures in the history of bodybuilding, and his legacy in the sport is commemorated in the Arnold Classic, an annual bodybuilding competition, which takes place in late February or early March in Columbus, Ohio.

The Arnold Classic is considered the most lucrative competition in Body Building with a number of large prizes, most notably the first prize which consists of $100,000 cash, a Hummer Vehicle and a Rolex watch.

The Arnold Classic rivals the Mr. Olympia in prestige and popularity, and certainly delivers greater material winnings. Like most Body Building Competitions it is always hotly contested and often only 1 or 2 competition points will separate the winners.

The Arnold Classic has expanded. The Arnold Classic now features gymnastics, cheerleading, dance, fencing, table tennis, yoga, martial arts, strongman competitions, archery, wrestling, and many other sports.

The Arnold Expo was held in the Greater Columbus Convention Center, with finals of the bodybuilding, fitness, figure, and strongman competitions were held in Veterans Memorial Auditorium.

To win and/or place in one of these competitions is a great accomplishment. Each one of the contestants that places received an award.

2004

The 2004 champion was Jay Cutler.

2005

The Arnold Classic was held on March 4th, 5th, and 6th, 2005.

• The 2005 winner of the men's bodybuilding competition was Dexter Jackson. Second place was Chris Cormier, third was Gustavo Badell, fourth was Lee Priest, Melvin Anthony was fifth place runner up, and sixth place was Darrem Charles.

• The 2005 winner of the Ms. International heavyweight bodybuilding competition was Yaxeni Oriquen. The second runner up was Betty Viana, third was Betty Pariso, fourth was Lisa Aukland, and the fifth runner up was Christine Roth.

• The 2005 winner of the Ms. International lightweight bodybuilding competition was Brenda Raganot. The second place winner was Mah-Ann Mendoza, third went to Desiree Ellis, fourth place was Susanne Niederhauser, fifth place was Angela Debatin, and the sixth place winner was Fannie Barrios.

• The 2005 winner of the Fitness International competition was Jen Henderschott. Second place was Adelina Garcia-Friedmansky, third place went to Kim Klein, fourth place was Kelly Ryan, fifth place was Stacy Hylton, and the sixth place winner was Julie Palmer.

External links

ArnoldClassic.com