The Olympia Weekend has announced that the prize money for this year years contest has been increased $825,000, making it the highest total prize money ever paid out.
Here is the breakdown for each category:
Mr. Olympia:
Total = $600,000
Ms. Olympia:
Total = $60,000
Figure Olympia:
Total = $60,000
Fitness Olympia:
Total = $60,000
Bikini Olympia:
Total = $20,000
202 Showdown:
Total = $25,000
Although the prize money has been increased, the Mr. Olympia contest itself remains the same, at a total of $600,000 prize money, with the winner taking home an incredible $200,000.
In 2009, the Mr. olympia contest hit a record breaking $800,000 for the total prize money. This was the first ever that a runner up (2nd place) would be taking home a six figure cheque at £100,000. Not bad for second place!
Back in 2004 the total prize money for the was $540,000 and the winner would take home just $120,000.
New evidence that shows bodybuilding is growing more every year, and the competitors are getting more in return."
http://www.about-muscle.com/contests/news/mr-olympia-prize-money.php
