For Oneida Elder Ray Fougnier, Age is No Barrier

In June, the Oneida Indian Nation’s Mary C. Winder Community Center hosted a screening of the Nation’s new documentary on Oneida Member and Elder Ray Fougnier (Wolf Clan) and his incredible journey as an 83-year-old championship powerlifter.

The documentary, titled “Lifting Up a Nation: The Story of Ray Fougnier,” outlines Ray’s life, athletic career and passion for teaching healthy living at any age.

Though he did not start powerlifting until his 70s, Ray is considered one of the most accomplished athletes in the field, earning countless accolades and awards for his feats of strength. Among his recent accomplishments, he earned three gold medals and set eight new world records in his age category at the AAU North American World Single-Lift Powerlifting Championships and was inducted into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame.

At the screening, Ray spoke with the audience and shared the health and wellness tips that have helped him stay so remarkably fit. “It’s never too late to start,” he responded to one audience member, who asked if there is an age limit to starting a training regimen, adding that his greatest hope is to inspire others—especially those in their retirement years—to start a fitness routine and be able to fully enjoy their later years, without physical restraints.

Watch Ray’s inspiring story and see why he hopes to encourage others to stay active and healthy at any age.