The bodybuilding world is mourning the loss of one of its rising stars, Neal Curry, who died by suicide at the age of 34. Curry was a former Mr. Olympia competitor and the founder of Ready Gunner, a popular firearms shop in the US.
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A Promising Career Cut Short
Curry started his bodybuilding career in 2017, when he competed in the World Championships and placed fifth in the pro muscle category. He continued to impress on the stage, winning the gold medal at the 2022 New York Pro and earning himself an invitation to the 2022 Mr. Olympia competition, the most prestigious event in bodybuilding.
Curry competed in the Classic Physique category at the Mr. Olympia and finished 16th, showing his potential to become one of the best in the sport. He was also known for his work ethic, dedication, and passion for bodybuilding.
A Tragic End to a Life Full of Adventure
Curry’s death was announced by his former coach, Milos Sarcev, on Instagram on Monday, September 11, 2023. Sarcev called it “absolutely shocking” and “heartbreaking” and said that Curry had taken his own life. The exact circumstances and reasons behind Curry’s suicide are still unclear.
Curry’s wife, Casey Nichelle Currey, also confirmed his death on social media and shared a picture of him with their family. She said that he was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, and friend, and that they would never be the same without him.
Curry’s death came as a shock to many who knew him as a cheerful, adventurous, and patriotic person. Before joining the military at 24, Curry had traveled to every continent with his father, who ran a whitewater guide service. He served as an Army Ranger and was deployed to Afghanistan after the 9/11 attacks. He later founded Ready Gunner, one of the most famous full-service gun shops in the country.
A Wave of Tributes from Fans and Peers
Curry’s death sparked an outpouring of grief and condolences from fans and fellow bodybuilders on social media. Many praised him for his achievements, his personality, and his contribution to the sport.
RX Muscle, a prominent source for bodybuilding news, said that they were “stunned and beyond saddened” by Curry’s death and offered their deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and fans. Canadian bodybuilder Fouad Abiad said that Curry’s work ethic was “second to none” and that he had “so much potential that was still untapped”. One fan wrote that Curry’s death was “a tragic loss” for the bodybuilding community.
Curry was the third bodybuilder to die within a month, after Hugo Sergio Pereira died due to becoming trapped in a fire at his home and after Lisa Lyon died after succumbing to stomach cancer.
A Reminder of the Importance of Mental Health
Curry’s death also highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and support in the bodybuilding industry and beyond. Many people expressed their concern about the pressures and challenges that bodybuilders face, such as maintaining a strict diet, training regimen, and physique, as well as dealing with injuries, criticism, and competition.
Some also urged anyone who is struggling with mental health issues to seek help and not suffer in silence. They reminded everyone that there is always hope and that suicide is never the answer.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to 741741 to speak with a trained counselor. You are not alone.
