NEW YORK, November 1, 2011–David J. Pecker, Chairman, President and CEO of American Media Inc. (AMI), has announced that Mr. Olympia 2011 winner, Phil Heath, has re-signed a multi-year contract with AMI’s Weider Publications today, extending the original agreement that was signed in 2005.
"After being named the winner of the 2011 Mr. Olympia contest, we are thrilled to-resign Phil for our exclusive contract," said Mr. Pecker. "He has been a cornerstone of our athlete program, even prior to his professional successes and title wins. Since he came on board in 2005 it has been a pleasure to watch him grow and mature into the competitor he is today. Now in his sixth year as a pro, Phil has exceeded our expectations.”
Heath’s transition into the bodybuilding industry had the potential to be a challenge. For four years he played guard for the University of Denver’s men’s basketball team and in 2002, at the end of his college basketball career, the 180 pound athlete was determined to train in the realm of bodybuilding. He transformed his fitness routine and diet and first earned his name in the professional arena by winning the heavyweight and overall titles at the 2005 NPC USA Bodybuilding Championships, as well as other renowned titles in the category. Heath has a history participating in Mr. Olympia, coming in 5th place in 2008, 2nd place in 2010, and winning the championship title in 2011.
Commenting on his contract, Phil Heath said, “Since I first signed with AMI’s Weider Publications in 2005, everything has turned to gold. When I started out in the industry, I turned to magazines like Flex and Muscle & Fitness—the people on their covers were my inspiration. To know that I can impact someone else is a great opportunity and I’m excited to be able to continue my contract.”
