TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF. WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF THE GYM?
I’m the Technical Specialist of a blood bank laboratory in a hospital on the southwest side. In addition to overseeing the lab, I ensure patients receive compatible blood transfusions by determining their blood type and checking for antibodies that may react adversely with the donor blood.
I enjoy spending time with Edzen L, who is also a Hardware member, and our two dogs, Oreo Speedwagon and Lucy Liubita. The four of us enjoy eating, sleeping, and taking road trips — especially to Canada. Lucy takes the center console while Oreo sits on my lap.
WHAT INITIALLY GOT YOU INTO CROSSFIT AND WHAT KEEPS YOU COMING BACK?
It started with the movie Wonder Woman in 2017. The women on the island were so fit and athletic. Edzen read an article that some of the women are crossfitters. So for my birthday wish I requested to try our first crossfit class (July 1). It’s been almost two years but every class seems like a new, fun experience.
WHAT ARE YOUR CROSSFIT GOALS? HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
My initial goal was to do a pullup. Now I can do the kipping variation. Next up is the handstand pushup and stringing together TTB. I’m so close. I’ve also literally dreamt of doing muscle ups and chest to bar pullups during the WODs.
WHAT’S AN ACCOMPLISHMENT OR GOAL YOU’VE REACHED DUE TO CROSSFIT THAT’S MADE YOU THE MOST PROUD?
My skills were very limited during the 2018 open. I told myself 2019 would be different and that I would challenge myself to work hard with the coaches to be able to RX certain WODs in the 2019 open. To be recognized as the most improved was an experience I will never forget. I still grin at the thought of it.
FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
Double unders. I spent so much time dreading double unders because of the painful lashing to my arms, toes, shins, and behind. But with lots of practice I’ve mastered the skill and it has become my favorite. I now look forward to double unders in the WODs.
LEAST FAVORITE WOD/MOVEMENT?
ANY ADVICE FOR SOMEONE INTERESTED IN TRYING OUT CROSSFIT?
Just show up to class, be patient and trust the coaches. And you’ll have so much fun!
