Shawn Ray facts for kids

Shawn I. Ray, born on September 9, 1965, is a famous former professional bodybuilder and writer. He was known for his amazing physique and long career in the sport. Shawn competed for many years before retiring in 2001.

Shawn Ray's Bodybuilding Journey

Shawn Ray is mentioned in a big book about modern bodybuilding. This book was written by Bill Dobbins and even Arnold Schwarzenegger! Shawn also wrote his own book called The Shawn Ray Way. It shares his secrets about bodybuilding.

Shawn has been on the cover of Flex magazine more than anyone else. His pictures have been in many fitness and bodybuilding magazines all over the world. For five years, he helped host the Flex Magazine Workout show on ESPN. He also worked as a commentator for bodybuilding contests on ESPN for eight years.

In 2006 and 2007, Shawn helped organize a big contest and expo. It was called the Shawn Ray Colorado Pro/Am Classic. He also made a DVD called Fitness After 40. This DVD helps people get back into shape as they get older. Today, Shawn writes for Digital Muscle Media. He also hosts the Mr. Olympia pay-per-view event. He even made a video documentary called Evolution of Bodybuilding – The Movie.

Shawn Ray's Life Outside Bodybuilding

Shawn Ray got married in 2003. His daughter, Asia Monet, was born in 2005. In 2008, Shawn and his wife, Kristie, had their second daughter.

Even after retiring, Shawn has stayed involved with bodybuilding. He attends "muscle camps" and gives talks. He also helps with grand openings and hosts contests. Shawn has helped promote the New York Pro contest in New York City. He is a global ambassador for a supplement company called Mutant. He is also the editor-in-chief for Digital Muscle Media.

Mr. Olympia Contest History

Shawn Ray competed in the Mr. Olympia contest for three different decades. He retired from competing in 2001 when he was 36 years old.

• 1988 Mr. Olympia – 13th Place
• 1990 Mr. Olympia – 3rd Place
• 1991 Mr. Olympia – 5th Place
• 1992 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
• 1993 Mr. Olympia – 3rd Place
• 1994 Mr. Olympia – 2nd Place
• 1995 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
• 1996 Mr. Olympia – 2nd Place
• 1997 Mr. Olympia – 3rd Place
• 1998 Mr. Olympia – 5th Place
• 1999 Mr. Olympia – 5th Place
• 2000 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
• 2001 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place

Shawn Ray's Awards and Achievements

Shawn Ray has won many awards and honors throughout his career.

• 1983 California Gold Cup
• 1984 Mr. Teenage Los Angeles (short & overall winner)
• 1984 Teenage Mr. California
• 1985 Teenage Mr. Orange County
• 1985 Teenage National Championships
• 1985 Jr. World Championships
• 1986 Jr. National Championships (12th Place Light heavy)
• 1987 Mr. California (Light heavy & overall winner)
• 1987 National Championships (Light heavy & overall winner)
• 1990 Pro Ironman Champion
• 1990 Arnold Classic Champion (He lost this title due to a drug test result.)
• 1991 Arnold Classic Champion
• In January 2007, he was added to the IFBB Hall of Fame. This is a special honor for professional bodybuilders.
• In 2020, he received the Ben Weider Lifetime Achievement Award.
• In October 2003, El Dorado High School in Placentia, California, added Shawn Ray to its "Football Hall of Fame". In 1983, he set the school's record for rushing yards. He also set the record for the longest run from scrimmage (98 yards). Both of these records still stand today!