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Draft:Robert Nailon

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Robert Nailon

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Robert Nailon (born 1945) is an Australian bodybuilder, photographer, and gym owner, widely recognized for his contributions to the bodybuilding community, particularly through his photography. His work has documented key moments in bodybuilding history, especially during the sport's golden era in Australia.

Early Life

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Robert Nailon was born in Sydney, Australia, to Michael and Elizabeth Nailon. He grew up in the city’s eastern suburbs, where he developed an early interest in sports, art, and photography. Nailon was particularly drawn to bodybuilding and cars, often combining his passion for photography with his love for Sydney’s coastal landscapes and automotive culture.

Career

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Bodybuilding and Photography

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Nailon began his bodybuilding journey in the early 1960s, competing in local events while pursuing photography as a parallel interest. His unique ability to capture the spirit of bodybuilding made him a sought-after photographer within the industry. His photographs have appeared in several prominent bodybuilding publications, including:

  • Muscular Development
  • Muscle Mag International
  • Strength & Health
  • Health & Strength
  • Muscle Training Illustrated

Nailon’s photographs provide a visual archive of bodybuilding’s development in Australia and internationally during the 1970s and 1980s. His work is noted for its artistic quality and historical value, offering insights into the culture of the sport during its formative years.

Gym Ownership

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In 1974, Nailon established a gym in Randwick, Sydney. The gym quickly became a popular destination for both professional bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts, known for its welcoming environment and state-of-the-art equipment. Nailon managed the gym until 1992, playing a significant role in promoting fitness culture in the local community.

Relationship with Arnold Schwarzenegger

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One of Nailon’s most notable contributions to bodybuilding history is his professional association with Arnold Schwarzenegger. Beginning in 1972, Nailon photographed Schwarzenegger during his visits to Australia, capturing some of the most iconic images of the bodybuilding legend. These photographs have been widely published and are considered significant records of Schwarzenegger’s early career.

Nailon was also present at the controversial 1980 Mr. Olympia competition held in Sydney, where Schwarzenegger made an unexpected comeback. Nailon's photographs and eyewitness accounts of the event have been referenced in bodybuilding history discussions and publications.

Legacy and Impact

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Robert Nailon’s photography and involvement in bodybuilding have left an indelible mark on the sport. His images are regarded as important historical artifacts, frequently cited in retrospectives and exhibitions about bodybuilding’s evolution. Nailon’s work continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and historians of the sport.

References

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  1. "Muscular Development, April 2005". Muscle Memory. Retrieved June 2024.
  2. "Zane Course Cover by Robert Nailon". Built Report. Retrieved June 2024.
  3. "Muscle Mag International, March 2002". Muscle Memory. Retrieved June 2024.
  4. "Muscle Training Illustrated, January 1973". Muscle Memory. Retrieved June 2024.
  5. "Strength & Health, April 1977". Muscle Memory. Retrieved June 2024.
  6. "Health & Strength, March 1996". Muscle Memory. Retrieved June 2024.
  7. "Interview with Robert Nailon". The Arnold Fans. Retrieved June 2024.
  8. "Sydney Gym Revolution". Daily Telegraph. Retrieved June 2024.
  9. "Insights from Arnold’s Friends". Bodybuilding.com. Retrieved June 2024.
  10. "1980 Mr. Olympia". Uproxx. Retrieved June 2024.
  11. "Robert with Frank Zane". Reddit. Retrieved June 2024.