15.11.2006 IFBB Loses Ben Weider

Over the years Ben Weider’s name has become the equivalent of the IFBB to me and probably to a host of other bodybuilders as well. No wonder, because he’s been at the helm of the organization for no less than 60 years now.
The names of Ben Weider and Joe Weider have pretty much become the brand-name of the sport of bodybuilding, as they had the lion’s share of transforming it into the sport it is today.
The presidency of the organization went go to Dr Rafael Santonja, who is set to continue on the path beaten by the Weider brothers.
His first action as the new president was, to nominate Ben Weider as the Honorary Life President of the organization, something which makes perfect sense to me and apparently it did to Congress members as well, as they unanimously approved the nomination.
Ben assured everyone he will stay available should the new president need his counseling.
Though this retirement was bound to happen sooner or later, the IFBB will always remain a “Weider-family” organization to me.

Brad Chillcut