June 7, 1928 – November 22, 2007
Yorkshire, England

Combine John Grimek’s ruggedness with Steve Reeves’ proportions and you would produce a physique like Reg Park’s. Park won the 1949 Mr. Britain, and then subsequently spent six months in the United States.

There, he met up with Joe Weider who began to feature the Englishman prominently in his magazines. Park’s major wins included the 1951 NABBA Amateur Mr. Universe and the 1958 and 1965 NABBA Pro Mr. Universe titles. Between the latter two wins, Reg (like Steve Reeves) made appearances as Hercules in movies filmed in Italy.

Aside from his mighty physique, Park was renowned for his strength – which he often demonstrated in public performances. Reg Park was Arnold Schwarzenegger’s bodybuilding inspiration; the two met in competition at the 1970 NABBA Pro Mr. Universe, where 23-year-old Arnold managed to best 42-year-old Park.

Reg lived in South Africa since the ‘60s, and would often be seen in attendance at major contests.

Reg passed away on November 22, 2007 after a brave battle against metastatic melanoma, surrounded by loving family and friends.