A Remarkable Athlete
Tom Platz, often revered as one of the finest bodybuilders of his era, competed fiercely throughout the 70s and 80s.
His fierce determination and commitment set him apart, a trait evident not just in his relentless leg workouts but also in his ability to bounce back from setbacks.
It’s no wonder he earned the nickname “Quadzilla” for his unmatched leg development.
A Heartbreaking Setback
Just two weeks before the 1982 Mr. Olympia, during a routine chest fly exercise, disaster struck.
Tom felt an unusual sensation, and upon medical examination, it was revealed that he had torn his bicep right off the bone.
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For most athletes, this would’ve been the end of their Olympia dreams for that year.
Defying the Odds
Despite the severe nature of his injury, Tom’s spirit remained unshaken.
On consulting multiple doctors, he decided to continue his preparation for the prestigious event.
And with sheer willpower and some ingenuity, he found a way to conceal his injury perfectly, ensuring that his impressive physique wasn’t overshadowed by the setback.
The Secret Leaks
Unfortunately, his well-guarded secret wasn’t kept for long.
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Tom made the fateful decision of confiding in Arnold Schwarzenegger about his injury. Arnold, perhaps out of concern or competition, shared this with the judges.
On the day of the competition, Tom was asked to showcase his left bicep, revealing his concealed injury.
Tom recalls this heart-wrenching moment:
“I was training for the ’82 Mr Olympia…my bicep tore off the bone…I could hide it perfectly nobody knew what happened but I made the mistake of telling somebody. I told Arnold and Arnold told the judge…so when I went on stage…can you show me your left Bicep?… okay, it’s over.”
A Testament to Determination
Despite the torn bicep and the reveal, Tom Platz’s resilience shone through.
He secured 6th place at the 1982 Mr. Olympia, a testament to his dedication, hard work, and perseverance.
An Inspiring Footnote
For those keen to dive deeper into this chapter of Tom’s life, a video interview capturing his emotional retelling of the incident provides richer insights.
It’s a gripping tale that underscores the importance of grit and determination in the face of adversity, serving as a beacon of inspiration for every lifter out there.
