Name: Gayle Clawson
Birth Date: September 20, 1944
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 160-165lbs
From: Mesa, Arizona  USA
 
 
CONTEST HISTORY
2008 WABLD Nationals - 1st Place in Masters 61-67
2008 NASA USA Nationals - 1st Place @ 161lb
2007 NASA USA Nationals - 1st Place @ 161lb
2007 Arizona Senior Olympics - 1st Place @ 160lb
2006 NASA Arizona Regional - 1st Place in 165lb Masters 3*
 *Only competitor in my class!
 
Arizona state records for Squat, Bench Press & Deadlift
National records for Bench Press
 
Personal Bests
  Squat: 235lbs
  Deadlift: 320lbs
  Bench: 210lbs
 
 
RFOS Q&A
 
How long have you been training?
Since age 60 — after losing 40lbs and needing something to fill in the wrinkles. My husband suggested I try some arm curls: After just three days, the results were quite dramatic. Been hooked ever since; about a year ago started into Powerlifting. Had rotator cuff surgery November 2006, a week after my competition. Was able to get back in competition for the 2007 NASA Nationals.
 
 
What would like to see done to help improve or promote the sport?
Advertising agencies seems to be interested only in using thin, nonathletic women in their ads. Even the fitness-type magazines usually showcase only Figure-type models, rarely those with any muscularity. I would like to see a Powerlifting magazine with a significant women's section.
 

 
Do you get negative comments from people with regard to your muscles?
The only negative comments I have received were from my mother-in-law (in her mid-80s) who thinks that I will hurt myself, and that I am too old to be doing this. Other than that, everyone has been very supportive.
 
 
Have you ever surprised yourself with you own strength? Like you forgot you were THAT strong???
Yes! My husband and I went out to a Mexican restaurant for lunch; while waiting for the food to arrive, we decided to arm wrestle. (I always win.) Unfortunately the table flipped over and sent our chips, salsa and drinks flying. We don't arm wrestle in restaurants anymore.
 

 
How have you used your physical strength outside the gym, when it has come in handy?
At work, I get all the heavy-lifting jobs. At home, where we have been doing extensive remodeling inside and out, the strength comes in quite handy. I usually end up holding the heavy object in place while my husband attaches it. It's nice to be able to do anything a man can do.
 
 
Any message for fans?
The fountain of youth is in the gym: the weight rooms. I wish I had started this 40 years ago, but it is never too late to improve one's health. It worked for me, and it can work for you.
 

 
What is the best way to contact you?
gayleaclawson@yahoo.com
 
 
Where can you be found on the web?
http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/BuiltOldLady
 
Check out my clips on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=billngayle