Max, your news about Pat Casey passing away made my hair stand on end. I haven't seen Pat in a good number of years but I was present that day when he broke 600 in the bench in San Diego, California in the early 60's. I sure wish I could find those photos but I fear that they have been long gone.
I'll never forget that sound of a roaring lion the moment Pat made that lift. We must have been close to the San Diego Zoo.
Rest in Peace, Pat! You made your mark upon this world!
Thanks for informing us, Max.
Rules, I did mention GetBig to Bob during our conversation. He just laffed and kept on talking.
I've known Bob for a good long time and have a completely different viewpoint. In my opinion he is one of the good guys in this sport. Been a good friend for many years.
Ya, the Rose Cafe is still there and going strong. It looks like they extended the interior to the exterior on the west end side. It was packed around noon with lots of people waiting for an outside table. I had a cup of coffee, took some inside photos and headed on over to the Firehouse where I met the gang and had my typical Bodybuilder's Special Dinner - half a chicken with vegetables and rice for $11.95 (I think that's what I paid).
Most of the others ordered egg whites with various cutting up stuff inside. It's still a haven for the guys from Gold's and the best place to meet the pros if you really wanna meet them. It's kind of like a bodybuilder's social club there. Everyone seems to want to relax and talk after a long and hard and silent training session in the gym.
If you're new to this bodybuilding scene and really want to meet the pros, go to lunch at the FireHouse and politely introduce yourself while their mouth isn't completely full of food. Or simply wait until they're finished eating.
I have yet to meet any pro who didn't appreciate meeting a fan while he wasn't under a heavy squat.
Jay introduced me to a very impressive natural competitor whose name completely escapes me now, but I guarantee ya that it won't escape me in a few month's time. This new guy (new to me anyway) is gonna worry a lot of people - natural or supernatural. Jay told me to check him out at GraphicMuscle.com but I failed to find his photos there or any mention of a great new natural guy appearing on the competitive scene. Nice guy too. Very HUMBLE! Anyone know who I am speaking of?
KooKooRoo across the street is now closed up and waiting for another tenant.
If I recall correctly, many years ago the Rose Cafe used to be situated furhter north on Main St down by the old World Gym. If you have any desire to meet prominant TV stars, drop into the Rose most any time of the day.
Oh yea, I gotta mention this. I previously mentioned that the meeting that joined the NPC to the IFBB was held at the Santa Monica Civic, but another good friend who was also there says that I am mistaken and that it was held at the Santa Monica Holiday Inn. I hate to say this, but I think I am right. Any help out there?