Welcome to the Evolving Man Project’s “Evolved Man of the Week” profile. Each week we will highlight an individual that embodies what it means to be an evolved person, famous and non-famous individuals alike. The world needs to know their stories and deeds. This week’s honor goes to a former teacher, school administrator, and powerlifter, Ray Fougnier.
Oneida Indian Nation member Ray Fougnier returned to the mat and continued to show his exceptional abilities in powerlifting at the 2021 Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Powerlifting International Championships held in Las Vegas, NV. Throughout his weightlifting career so far, the 78-year-old set 20 World Records and 28 American Records. In addition, he has won 8 AAU Best Lifter Awards in the world and international competitions. He has been selected as the AAU powerlifting Male Athlete of the Year in 2018 and 2020. Fougnier has competed at the AAU North American, World, and International Powerlifting Championships for five years, setting new records each time in the raw master’s division, where participants within his age range (75-79) do not use any equipment to assist their lift. Here is Ray Fougnier in his own words about why he stays active and healthy.
” My mother was a diabetic”... “She had complications, and her retirement was not a good one. She was sick most of the time until she passed. My father was a cancer victim. He retired at 65 and had a lot of plans, but he was sick the whole year and died at 66. I made a vow that I did not want that to happen to me.”
Fougnier said he works out seven days a week, rotating between lifting three days a week and cardio four days a week while eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and nuts. He said the routine has warded off hereditary diseases and lowered his risk of dealing with aging complications. Here is Ray Fougnier speaking about setting an example for others.
“I am glad to continue serving as an example of the powers of healthy living. If I can do it, so can others. When it comes to physical ability and exercise, age really is just a number!”
We at the Evolving Man Project wish Ray Fougnier continued success and good health as he continues to break records no matter his age. And also shows that you can defy the odds and that age shouldn’t hold anyone back. Today we honor Ray Fougnier as our Evolved Man of the Week.
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