SACRAMENTO — Returning to his celebrity roots, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger this weekend will visit the bodybuilding competition he helped create to admire sculpted physiques, greet fans who treat the event like an annual pilgrimage -- and make some money.
Schwarzenegger has a financial interest in the Arnold Fitness Weekend, a three-day exhibition in Columbus, Ohio, that also features archery, judo, table tennis and posing by the world's "fittest, most shapely" women, according to promotional material. About 100,000 spectators and 15,000 athletes are expected.
Schwarzenegger's partner in the exhibition, James J. Lorimer, would not disclose how much the event takes in or the governor's share. "We don't want to discuss that," Lorimer said. "It's never been about the money."
Lawmakers and watchdog groups say Schwarzenegger should sever his ties to a moneymaking enterprise. Others cite another reason for staying away: a bodybuilding subculture tinged with steroids.
At last year's exhibition, federal agents issued subpoenas, which led to the indictment of two men on charges of conspiring to import steroids. They have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial this month.
One of the products being sold openly by an exhibitor at the event last year contained a testosterone booster, androstenedione. A federal law outlawing sales of the substance, a steroid precursor, without a prescription took effect in January.
"It's tremendously unfortunate that he's not using his celebrity, his status as an icon, in a way that could really help stem the epidemic of steroid use among our young people," said Charles Yesalis, professor of health and human development at Penn State University. "It's no secret -- talk to anyone on the inside -- that in these contests at the elite level, drug use is rampant."
Schwarzenegger, who arrives today, has faithfully appeared at what's known locally as "the Arnold" for 17 years.
"I think that Arnold will want to be associated with and promote this contest for as long as he's breathing," said Paul Wachter, a friend and financial advisor. "And anyone who doesn't feel it's appropriate should just know that that's who he is."
A VIP ticket to the fitness weekend sells for $350. It buys admission to all events and a "dinner/dance with Arnold and competitors and more," according to organizers. Sponsors on the event's website include makers of dietary supplements, clothing and exercise equipment.
