In the world of bodybuilding, longevity is rare. The demands of the sport, both physically and mentally, often push athletes to their limits, making extended careers the exception rather than the rule. Yet, Phil Clahar, affectionately known as the ‘Jamaicantank,’ defied these odds.
Despite starting his professional career later than most, Phil Clahar managed to carve out a remarkable career in competitive bodybuilding.
However, all journeys eventually reach their end, and for Phil Clahar, that moment has arrived.
In a recent interview, Phil Clahar announced his retirement from competitive bodybuilding, citing frustrations with the current state of the sport and a feeling of being ‘pushed out.’
A Unique Journey: From Late Bloomer to Pro Champion
Phil Clahar’s entry into the professional bodybuilding scene was anything but typical.
Earning his Pro card at the age of 43, Phil Clahar was already at an age when many athletes consider retirement.
Yet, this late start didn’t hinder his progress; rather, it seemed to fuel his determination to prove that age is just a number.
Phil Clahar’s rise in the IFBB Pro League was nothing short of impressive.
Despite competing against athletes decades younger, he consistently held his own, displaying a ‘mass-with-class’ physique that became his trademark.
His powerful stage presence and finely tuned musculature allowed him to stand out in the highly competitive Men’s Open division.
Over his seven-year professional career, Phil Clahar achieved several notable victories, the most significant being his win at the 2023 Orlando Pro.
This victory not only solidified his reputation as a top-tier competitor but also highlighted his ability to outperform younger, up-and-coming bodybuilders.
Additionally, Phil Clahar demonstrated his prowess by securing third place at the prestigious 2023 Masters Olympia, an event that marked the return of the competition after an 11-year hiatus.
This performance further cemented his legacy as a dominant force in the sport, even as he approached his 50s.
Related: Phil Clahar: A Giant Among Men – His Journey to Glory
The Decision to Retire: A Climax at the 2024 Tampa Pro
Phil Clahar‘s decision to retire was not made lightly, nor was it solely based on his age. In an interview with Ron Harris on YouTube, Phil Clahar shared the circumstances that led to his decision to step away from the sport.
His final competitive appearance came at the 2024 Tampa Pro, where he finished tied for 16th place—a result that left him feeling disillusioned and frustrated.
Clahar entered the 2024 season with high hopes, aiming to improve upon his previous performances and leave the sport on a high note. However, the outcome at the Tampa Pro was a bitter pill to swallow. “It wasn’t a decision that was made that this was going to be my last year because I turned 50,” Clahar explained. “I wanted to give back to my fans, myself, an opportunity to come in better than last year.”
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Despite his best efforts, the results did not reflect the work he had put in. Clahar’s placement in the third call-out, far below where he believed he deserved to be, felt like a “dagger” to his heart. The experience left him questioning the fairness of the judging and whether he was being systematically ‘pushed out’ of the sport.
This, combined with the emotional toll of consistently feeling undervalued, led Clahar to make the difficult decision to retire on the spot. “I was told to come back and take a 10, I said no I’m sorry. I am done. I will not come back,” he stated, signaling the end of his competitive career.
Reflecting on a Career of Resilience and Achievement
Phil Clahar’s career is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of perseverance.
While his professional journey spanned just seven years, the impact he made on the sport is significant.
Competing primarily in his 40s and 50s, Phil Clahar consistently demonstrated that age is no barrier to success in bodybuilding.
His ability to transform his physique and compete with the best in the world is a feat that few can claim.
Clahar’s competition history is a chronicle of hard-fought battles and notable achievements. His rise to prominence began in earnest with an 8th-place finish at the 2020 IFBB Chicago Pro.
From there, he continued to improve, achieving respectable placements in a series of high-profile competitions. In 2022, Clahar made a significant statement by placing 3rd at the Orlando Pro and 5th at the Tampa Pro.
These performances set the stage for his crowning achievement in 2023 when he won the Orlando Pro, a victory that affirmed his status as one of the top competitors in the Men’s Open division.
Clahar’s success was not limited to victories on stage; he also inspired many aspiring bodybuilders, particularly those who started later in life.
His story is of perseverance, dedication, and the belief that pursuing your dreams is never too late.
This inspirational narrative is perhaps Phil Clahar’s greatest legacy, one that will resonate with fans and athletes for years to come.
Related: 2023 Orlando Pro Bodybuilding Show Results
A Look Back: Phil Clahar’s Influence Beyond the Stage
While Phil Clahar’s competitive achievements are impressive, his influence extends beyond the stage. Throughout his career, Phil Clahar was actively involved in the bodybuilding community, often participating in posing clinics, mentoring young athletes, and promoting the sport at the grassroots level.
His commitment to giving back to the community reflects his character and deep love for bodybuilding.
Phil Clahar’s involvement in the sport was not limited to his own competitive success.
He frequently visited colleges with bodybuilding teams, sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of athletes.
His efforts to educate and inspire young bodybuilders highlight his dedication to the sport and his desire to see it grow and thrive.
This commitment to the sport, coupled with his competitive achievements, makes Clahar’s retirement all the more significant. While he may no longer be competing, his influence will continue to be felt in the bodybuilding community.
His story serves as a reminder that success in bodybuilding, as in life, is about more than just winning; it’s about the journey, the challenges overcome, and the legacy left behind.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Perseverance and Passion
Phil Clahar‘s retirement from competitive bodybuilding marks the end of an era.
His career, characterized by late starts and remarkable achievements, stands as a testament to what can be accomplished with perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering belief in oneself.
Clahar’s decision to step away from the sport was not easy, but it was made with the same integrity and class that defined his career.
As Phil Clahar moves on to the next chapter of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and achievement. His journey from earning his Pro card at 43 to becoming a champion in his 50s is a story that will continue to inspire future generations of bodybuilders.
Though he may no longer grace the stage, the ‘Jamaicantank’ will always be remembered as a symbol of what can be achieved with hard work and passion.
In the world of bodybuilding, where careers are often fleeting, Phil Clahar’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and leave a lasting impact.