Arnold Schwarzenegger was in Columbus, Ohio, on October 6 for a re-dedication ceremony of a bronze statue erected in the city in his honor. The 600-pound, 8-foot piece, which was originally dedicated to The Oak in 2012, was moved from Franklin County Veterans Memorial to the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
The seven-time Mr. Olympia received the honor as Columbus has hosted the annual Arnold Sports Festival since 1989. The event is held every year around February/March and is important to the local economy—last year’s event brought an estimated $42.3 million to the region.
Of course, Columbus was also where Arnold won Mr. World in 1970, edging out Sergio Oliva. Arnold shared the photo above with the following message: “Thank you to Governor Kasich, Mayor Coleman and all of the local leaders and fans who attended the statue dedication today in Columbus. As I said today, this statue isn’t just about physical strength—it is a reminder to always have a strong mind, to do as Apple says and Think Different. And I meant what I said: the @ArnoldSports is in Columbus to stay.”
And here is the statue in all its glory!
Here is Arnold in action at the 1970 Mr. World in Columbus:
