How did you find CrossFit and how long did it take before you were hooked?
Jay introduced me to CrossFit. I started doing it on my own in 2010 at the University gym but really I would just do the same thing every day (pull-ups, push-ups and air squats). I thought that was CrossFit. I refused to join a gym even when Jay was coaching at a CrossFit gym nearby. I was pretty stubborn and just naive to the experience. Jay bought me a 2-month membership for my birthday so I had to check it out. He was right- about 1 week in I was hooked and fast forward we now we have a gym together!
How has your life changed since finding CrossFit?
A lot of doors opened! First off I became healthier, happier and gained that drive to excel again.
I’m grateful for all the experiences it has given me. I became a better Track & Field athlete making it to the Olympic trials in Long Jump, competed at the CrossFit Games, competed in Fitness something I always wanted to try. I was introduced to the sport of Weightlifting through CrossFit where I won a National Championship, hold a Canadian record and was an alternate for the Rio Olympics. I got to travel to places like Colombia, California, Texas, Miami, Chicago, and Vancouver.
I get to do something that I absolutely love for a living with my best friend! I could be having a bad day and as soon as I walk through those doors my day gets better whether I’m there to train or coach. Can’t get much better than that!
What do you love most about coaching?
Getting to know people that I never would have gotten to know. Getting to see CrossFit change people’s lives just like it did mine. Seeing them grow, gain confidence and alter their life for the better.
What are you reading right now? Or last book you read?
Well right now I’m revisiting, How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie because we are reading it together in the Advanced Theory Course.
Before that; Permission to Screw Up by Kristen Hadeed
What is something you would like to accomplish? (Athletic endeavour or not)
When I retired from competitive sports I was just so happy to return to CrossFit classes 5x week and hang out with friends and family more. On a personal note I have some things in the works.
Favourite CrossFit movement
Toes to Bar
What’s something people would be surprised to know about you?
I’ve had some interesting jobs growing up; buff & wax boats, limo driver, and anti-aging skin cream sales rep.
Favourite cheat/bad food?
Chocolate, cheese and red wine