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Solandro Lee 1960-2009
Solandro Lee 1960-2009
A dear friend and a bodybuilding icon for many military members and spouses living and working in Europe has passed on. Solandro Lee, a WNBF Pro, died suddenly 21 Jan at Spangdahlem Air Base Fitness Center in Germany. He was doing what he loved. Training the next generation of up and coming bodybuilding and fitness athletes.
I became acquainted with Solandro through our common love for the sport of Bodybuilding. It was shortly before he won the 2004 Overall Title at the US Forces Europe INBF Championship that he convinced me to get back on stage. I had considered myself getting a little old for bodybuilding, but here he was 9 years my senior earning his WNBF pro-card.
Solandro truly believed Bodybuilding was everyman’s sport, and he freely gave up his time and knowledge to anyone who had a genuine desire and willingness to learn. Solandro’s advice was highly valued, and his direct mentorship led to pro-cards for WNBF athletes Justin Usery, Alejandro Gonclaves, and me. A true testament to the depth of his knowledge and dedication to the sport.
Solandro was a huge supporter of every Bodybuilding/Fitness show and Powerlifting event. In the last four years I had competed in or judged over 40 events he was staple figure in every one. He could always be found back stage guiding not only his own competitors, but helping everyone that needed a hand….truly he was an inspiration for literally hundreds. I can only remember one time when Solandro was missing. It was such an unusual occurrence I spent hours calling and searching for him. It wasn’t until the following day he had related the break down of his car and subsequent failure of his cell phone on the German Autobahn. He was miles from an exit and had to push his car in early morning hours to the nearest station. I have never known a more steadfast proponent for his fellow fitness enthusiasts.
Solandro was also a dear friend and he referred to me as his true brother…not just in sport, but in our personal relationship. He willing gave more than he ever received, and I never could have repaid him for all he has done. Nonetheless, just as he was at last fall’s WNBF Master Championship, he will always be an inspiration to me and all who had the good fortunate to have met him.
Thank you Solandro you will be missed but not forgotten!
Troy Saunders
Solandro Lee
July 24, 1960-January 21, 2009
