Clancy Ross was a bodybuilding Mr. America in 1945 who still wanted to stay fit at 84.

ross1.jpg Born October 26, 1923
Oakland, California, USA 

While John Grimek was termed “The Monarch of Muscledom”, Clarence “Clancy” Ross was known as “The King of Bodybuilders”.

This accolade was awarded not so much for actual titles won, but more for how his presence and aura lifted the sport. Ross’ name became legendary because of his proportionately blended muscularity, his graceful posing style and the aesthetics that earned him major magazine exposure.

Ross was part of an elite Oakland-trained group of bodybuilders who emerged just after World War II. In a seven-year period, five Oakland musclemen became either the professional or amateur Mr. America. Ross was the first.

From that group came Hollywood film star Steve "Hercules" Reeves and fitness guru Jack LaLanne, although the latter wasn't ever crowned Mr. America. Ross was invited to join LaLanne for an upcoming fitness celebration in Sacramento before his death from cardiac arrest at Kaiser Permanente Medical Center in Walnut Creek.

"He'll remain part of bodybuilding history forever," said his son, Lance Ross, 46, who lives in San Lorenzo.

Ross was both amateur and professional Mr. America (1946) before becoming Mr. USA (1949) and Mr. World (1953).

As a child growing up in Alameda, Ross was given up for adoption along with two brothers and a sister. He spent his youth in foster homes and orphanages. Bodybuilding brought him stability and recognition.

After a long life of training and competition Clarence Ross became a writer with the Weider publications and other magazines, Gym owner and Manager and a successful businessman.  He still follows a daily training regimen.

ross2.jpg

Ross must never be forgotten by the thousands he has inspired and for his great personal successes. Clarence Ross truly has earned a place in bodybuilding history as THE KING OF BODYBUILDERS.

Ross donated his body to science.