I started training hard later in life. I had used weights off and on throughout my life and even dreamed of becoming a great bodybuilder. However, life and it’s various responsibilities as a father, Air Force Officer, student, and having a busy medical clinical practice took most of my time. Thus, all the thoughts of becoming a great bodybuilder had to be put on hold. In addition, in my previous marriage my wife adamantly opposed my every overture to her to let me compete. This was another point of exceeding disappointment.
When I was 58 years old I thought I would get into shape again so I could continue to do the things that me and my current wife loved to do like, hiking, riding bikes, walking together, swimming etc. So, I got a three year contract with a local Golds Gym. I proceeded to train twice per day, six days per week, for the next three years. I weighed 155 lbs. and I was in terrible shape. I dressed out fully for each workout to include ball cap, headset for music, strap shirt, T-shirt, sweatshirt, tight shorts, gym shorts, and sweat pants. I would work so hard that I would soak my entire set of gym clothes all the way through with sweat. I refused to let anybody see the rotten body I possessed.
Then, one day I had to strip off my shirt because of the excessive heat in the gym. A guy saw me and said, “Dude! Have you ever considered doing a bodybuilding competition?” I said, “No.” He persisted and kept talking about me competing which I found very annoying at the time. I relented and told him that I would consider his suggestion to do a contest. I went home after my workout and told my wife about the encounter and she suggested that I give it some thought and maybe do it. I was floored that she would be so enthusiastic and supportive. Remember, my previous wife didn’t want me to even think about competing. I listened but, at first, I could not imagine myself on stage in a tiny set of bikini briefs in front of hundreds and maybe even thousands of people. One more conversation with Christine my wife and with her encouragement I was all in. I circled a date on the calendar that a contest was to be held. I filled out all the paperwork, sent it in along with my music and I was in.
Fast forward to today. My highest weight has been 210 lbs and I’ve competed as both a middle weight and mostly as a light heavy weight. I’ve done pretty well for an old guy and I’ve won the Masters Division here in Utah three years in a row. I get so jazzed about competing and as I approach a contest. My training gets more focused and more intense. Every detail regarding the diet, cardio, training, supplements etc. is adhered to get me ready. My coach, Justin Dees adjusts things as I get ready for the show. He reviews it all an takes my measurements to keep on task.
The crux of what I am talking about is found in the truth that no matter how old you are there is still time to excel at your given calling. I don’t think that time is ever a disqualifier. It only becomes a limiting thing when the effects of time have taken its toll on the body in the form of injury or illness. Even under the worst of circumstances much can be accomplished. Never let it be said that you did not pursue your calling because you thought you were too old. Remember, I was 58 when I started and I am now 67. To this day, nothing stands in my way except me.
Being this disciplined to take on great athletes has translated itself into many other areas of my existence. The very act of setting out to accomplish short and long term goals has set me apart from my peers. I look the part of a bodybuilder and as Arnold Schwarzenegger has said, “You carry your trophy with you all the time.” This is its own blessing all by itself.
Thus, today “I’m becoming the person I should’ve been a long time ago.”
In closing, all of us need to set a course of excellence aimed at the thing that makes us tick. The sooner you start the sooner you will arrive at your destination. Most of our regrets arise from not taking up this mantel of destiny and they can be eliminated by beginning the journey.
Until next time, I remain, Douglas E. Graham, Lt Col, USAF, (ret), MHSM
Six Pack and Senior 