WORLDS TO CONQUER

[peter yates]

Just reading the authorized biography of Steve Reeves 'Worlds to Conquer' by Chris D. LeClaire. Always been a Reeves fan and he was in the very first muscle mag i had, that and the Hercules films were big inspirations for my early training. Although we share the same birthday that is about all we share unfortunately,he was a once in a lifetime genetic marvel, whereas i, as writer Rich Abbot would put it, am a genetic trash bag. Still we both made the best of the hand we were dealt. Anyway great read for anyone with a passing interest in Reeves as it deals with him as a person and what made him tick. Recently re-printed after being out of print for a while.
Regards,Peter.

[David Gentle]

Peter, where can you obtain the new copy of the Reeves book? as i gave mine away, he even signed it for me. He was an enigma, with no disrespect, Bob Kennedy said, that the problem was Reeves was so amazingly almost beautiful, that he never was required to develop a personality, he was just so used to everyone worshiping him that he didnt have to make much of an effort. I got to know him over a few dinners and after contests, liked him, did interviews on him etc, and found him almost shy, he wanted fame, but didnt like the pressure.I treasure some original photos that Reeves used to sell via the early weider mags, never beaten in my view either bodyily or facially, unlike todays monsters nore did he ever charge for autographs, happy to oblige, all in all a lovely man whos memories i treasure. David Gentle

[peter yates]

Hi David,
the book will be with you in the new year. Well i do not totally agree with Bob Kennedy, in that Reeves had no personality. Yes he was without doubt what could be called a beautiful man,yet i do not think he even realized that about himself until he was well into his 20's,despite the adoration from BB fans and beach girls.I think he was at heart a quiet and reserved person and the constant adulation may have made him more so, cherishing any private time he could find. I am sure as you say he did in one way enjoy the limelight, but it seems the challenge was what was most important for him. Anyway although there have been some terrific Bodybuilders over the decades and i am not a fan of lists,i do have to say that for my money Reeves had just about everything and it has been said that there will probably never be another like him and i tend to agree.
Regards,Peter.

[colinkbell]

Thanks Peter, i love biographies. Did Steve Reeves continue lifting after he retired from competition?
Colin

[peter yates]

Hi Colin, i think you will enjoy this one. Yes Steve trained all his life although he could go several months without training at times. He was always active and rode daily and created the 'power walking 'system.At his ranch he had one of those Universal stations with adaptations for his specific needs.
Regards,Peter.