Shear'Ree

Shear'Ree is a powerlifter from California who, on November 15, 1982, became the first man to successfully bench press 700.9 pounds without the usage of any aids.

Background
The world record bench press of 700.9 pounds without the use of specialized equipment, such as lifting suits or bench shirts, was the first successful attempt of its kind. In powerlifting, Shear'Ree's raw lift has been recognized as a significant milestone in the sport of powerlifting.

Shear’Ree trained extensively for several years leading up to the Venice Open, where he benched a personal best of 474 lbs while equipped. He prepared by gradually increasing the weight he lifted. with the help of his spotter, Ed McGlasson. Following his achievement, Shear’Ree became a coach and mentor to many aspiring powerlifters, including McGlasson.

As a coach, Shear’Ree trained and mentored the first female firefighters in California who passed the Los Angeles City Fire Department physical aptitude test. He also used his achievement to support various humanitarian causes, including restoring vandalized headstones at Mt. Carmel Cemetery and raising money for victims of the San Ysidro McDonald's massacre by hosting a Lift-A-Thon. Shear’Ree started his own outreach program called Program Shear’Ree and spoke to schools and troubled youths in gangs.

In addition to his achievements in powerlifting and coaching, Shear’Ree had a career in politics. He ran for President in the 1996 election  and is registered as a candidate for the 2024 elections. Shear’Ree also founded Shear’Ree Motorsports and created the Shear’Ree Edition Muscle Truck heavy Chevy, of which only 800 were made. He was interviewed after lane splitting became legal for motorbike riders in California and worked with the Highway Patrol to test the safety and functionality of the maneuver.

Presidential campaigns
Shear'Ree briefly ran for President of the United States in 1996 as a Republican. He is currently registered as a candidate for the 2024 United States presidential election as an Independent under the name Shear'Ree Shear'Ree.