Schwarzenegger returns to Melbourne for Arnold Classic multi-sport event

Movie star and former Mr Universe Arnold Schwarzenegger has returned to Melbourne to host his Arnold Classic at the Melbourne Convention Centre over the weekend.

Now in its third year, the world’s biggest multi-sport festival attracts crowds of up to 70,000 over the three-day event.

Among other appearances, Schwarzenegger will be presenting the coveted IFBB Pro Show Award which names the best male and female body builders in the world.

Schwarzenegger will also use the event to highlight his career-long commitment to exercise and his concern about rising levels of childhood obesity.

In a statement promoting the event, Schwarzenegger stated “don't be a couch potato! ... get busy, start moving, it will change your life. I want to encourage kids to participate in activities that might lead to them taking up sport and terminate obesity in children.”

Introducing the Arnold Kids Expo that will showcase sports like tennis, fencing, futsal and martial arts, The Terminator star and former California Governor stated “my fitness crusade is to encourage people of all ages to get off the couch and start exercising. It is so important for our youth to experience the benefits of regular exercise and playing sport."

Arnold Classic Australia Owner Tony Doherty explains “last year’s Arnold weekend had 60,000 attendees and we plan to smash that record this year with the introduction of a number of new attractions and sports as well as double the floor space.”

Sunday will also see the launch of the inaugural Arnold Classic Family charity walk with all donations going towards Bully Zero Australia Foundation.

Families can register for the four kilometre event, with Schwarzenegger sending participants off from Federation Square along the Yarra River towards the Exhibition Centre.

The 2017 Arnold Classic will be Schwarzenegger's fourth trip to Australia since 2013.

The event is being held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 17th to 19th March. 

For more information on the Arnold Classic Australia click here to view event details in Australasian Leisure Management industry Calendar.

Main image shows Arnold Schwarzenegger on the Expo floor today.

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