Goals

Top photo: Ray Routledge by Dave Martin, circa 1951.  

Born in Los Angeles, Ray was a student at Compton College when he first posed for Martin.  After college, Ray joined the US Air Force and was stationed outside of Sacramento where he served as a physical trainer.  There he became more serious in his bodybuilding efforts with the dream of someday winning the Mr. America title.  

A couple of years later the Air Force transferred him to Rhein-Main Airbase in Frankfurt, Germany.  Ray was concerned the new air base may not have the proper equipment for him to continue in his training -- always keeping his eyes on his goal.  Upon arrival in Germany, Ray learned the air base had one of the largest and most complete gyms in the world. 

When his time in the service ended, Ray moved back to California and got a job at Bill Pearl's gym in LA.  There he worked out almost daily, sometimes for hours at a time.  In 1959 and in 1960 Ray entered the Mr. America contest and both times he got 2nd place.  After failing twice, Ray asked Pearl if he thought he had what it takes to get first prize.  Pearl then made it his mission to make the third time a charm for Ray.   

In 1961 Ray was named Mr. America and Mr. Universe, two of the most prestigious titles in the bodybuilding world.  

Ray at the Mr. America contest in 1961.  Photo by Bruce of LA.