Triangle CrossFit athletes truly are the best. Their dedication and passion for being the best they can be deserves recognition. And so we're doing just that. On this page, we'll showcase TCF athletes that we think deserve time in the spotlight. Enjoy getting to know our athletes...we sure have!
February 2012 - Julia Roumanis
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - April 2010.
What fitness activities were you doing before? - I had a personal trainer for a little while and was the elliptical queen.
List 3 words to describe your very first CF workout. - Work, Tough, Enlightening.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - I've gained about 5 pounds but I'm a size smaller... and a butt lift.
What do you like most about CF? - The feeling I get of accomplishment after I finish the WOD. I like that I feel stronger physically and mentally. But most of all I like all the friends I've made from Crossfit.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - Is this a serious question? I guess if I had to pick one it would be.... Hold on I'm still thinking of it..
Least favorite? - Can I only pick one? Rowing! I know Clay would think I would say snatches or some kind of weight lifting movement but at least you can scale those.
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - Im proud of competing in the war of the wods with DeeDee and not placing last. I'm glad Josh signed me up and Deedee didn't let me skip the competition for the beach. It was really tough and super intimidating but I made it through.
What CF goal are you working towards? - So many goals. I would like to finally be able to string my pull ups together. And I'd love to be stronger.
Favorite color? - Black.
Favorite food? - Chocolate and seafood, but not together.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Usually my vacations are really just work related trips to really fun cities. The last real vacation I had was a cruise to the Bahamas with coworkers 2 years ago.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - I would take a trip to Hawaii and Greece, give some of it to my parents and open a salon so I could make another $100,000.
Favorite quote? - “Success is often achieved by those who don't know that failure is inevitable.” Coco Chanel
“Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary.” Cecil Beaton
What the TCF coaches have to say about Julia...
Kimberly - "Julia is one of the most consistent CrossFitters I know. She is faithful to her training and as a result, is able to put some impressive numbers up on the whiteboard. Although she probably doesn't think so, others do see her as a top performer. Julia is spunky and fun and we just love her!"
Julia pullin' high!
Conquering the kettlebell snatch.
January 2012 - Tenita Solanto
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - March, 2010
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Worked out at your average globo gym.
List 3 words to describe your very first CF workout. - Amazing, Challenging, Wow
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - Over 20lbs of weight loss, increased strength, and better endurance.
What do you like most about CF? - I like the challenges that a crossfit WOD can present to you on a daily basis. Doing crossfit allows me to accomplish feats that never seemed physically or mentally possible. I also like the encouraging community and lifetime friends you make.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - Any WOD with deadlifts.
Least favorite? - Anything that involves wall balls or pullups.
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - I'm currently proud of the fact that I haven't given up on crossfit and have stuck with it for almost 2 years. I love crossfit and couldn't imagine going back to the boring repetitive workouts I use to do at globo gyms.
What CF goal are you working towards? - I would like to achieve performing basic crossfit movements more efficiently for better prescribed movements. I would also like to achieve good double unders and build better endurance.
Favorite color? - Black and red.
Favorite food? - Habachi
Where did you go on your last vacation? - The last vacation I had was to New Orleans for a week of Mardi Gras fun and to visit family.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - I would pay off some debt, take a trip to costa Rica and give a portion to a local soup kitchen.
Favorite quote? - "Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do." -Johann Wolfgang vo Goethe
Deadlift time!
Tenita and the top of the press.
September 2011 - Matt Skidmore
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - November, 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Not much. Some walking and mountain biking.
List 3 words to describe your very first CF workout. - Exhausted Sweaty Mess. My very first CrossFit workout was 5 rounds for time - Row 500 meters, 15 Box Jumps with a 24” box, 15 ring pull ups. I scaled it to 3 rounds total. The box jumps were scaled to stepping up to a 20” box and the ring pull ups were scaled to jumping pull ups on the bar. It took me 20:48 to finish the 3 rounds. I redid this workout recently and finished the full rx’d workout in 37:11.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - Lots more energy, better cardiovascular endurance, increased flexibility, sleeping better (had problems with insomnia prior to CrossFit), and about 85 pounds of weight loss.
What do you like most about CF? - All of the great people I’ve met through CrossFit. Everyone (trainers and fellow athletes) always motivate me to do more. It’s really a great source of inspiration at the gym. Especially on days when I’m just not feeling it, they really help me get to the end of the workout.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - Anything that involves a 135# barbell.
Least favorite? - Anything that involves a pair of 55# dumbbells.
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - Just being able to do the majority of the workouts with the rx’d weights and movements.
What CF goal are you working towards? - Hand stand push ups, muscle ups, and the ability to talk to animals. Not sure if CrossFit will help with the last goal. I’m also training to run a marathon in November.
Favorite color? - Black and red.
Favorite food? - Pizza.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Nowhere, last vacation involved staying home, taking a week off of work, and going to the NHL All-Star game and the associated festivities. Last vacation that involved travel was to Charleston, SC for a week of camping and kayaking.
If you won $100,00 what would you do with it? - Replace the deck on the back of my house, take my wife on a vacation, and give the rest to charity.
Favorite quote? - “One of the greatest things you have in life is that no one has the authority to tell you what you want to be. You’re the one who’ll decide what you want to be. Respect yourself and respect the integrity of others as well. The greatest thing you have is your self image, a positive opinion of yourself. You must never let anyone take it from you.” - Jaime Escalante
What the TCF coaches have to say about Matt....
Kimberly - "Matt is one of our most amazing transformations at the the box. He is such a different person than when he first walked into TCF. He's become an impressive athlete with numerous accomplishments and his never-give-up attitude is an example to others. And Matt is also one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet."
Jim - "I admire Matt’s work ethic at the box and his willingness to try new sports, one of CrossFit’s pillars. This year alone he’s participated in the CrossFit Open as well as various endurance events. His great attitude has also allowed him to change his body composition since he’s been CrossFitting. Truly impressive.”
Dan -"Matt has shown great progress since his initial days at TCF. One example of this is that he began needing a band to assist with pull-ups and now completes the majority of WODs as prescribed and also even represented Triangle CrossFit in local competition.. He is a fine example of what commitment to CrossFit will achieve."
Kirk - "Matt has made an amazing transformation since coming to TCF! He is a great example of what hard work and determination mixed with Crossfit can do. On top of being a great athlete, he is always a positive influence to myself and everyone around him."
Big men can jump! Matt showing off his double-under skills.
Smiles and sandbag carries - a great combination.
April 2011 - Theresa and Logan Pullen
When did you first start doing CrossFit?
Theresa - I started crossfit in Oct 2009 after my son started, only because I was bored sitting in the car waiting for him daily after having to drive him there. I decided to walk in after about 4 weeks to see what Logan was doing and there was Clay. Thats all she wrote.
Logan - I started Crossfit in august of 2009.
What fitness activities were you doing before?
Theresa - I lost 50 lbs with weight watchers the year before and walked 3 miles 5 days a week during that time.
Logan - I played sports before Crossfit... that’s about it.
List 3 words to describe your very first CF workout.
Theresa - Grueling, Breathless, Dying
Logan - Fun, brutal, intense.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?"
Theresa - Wow, its been such a transformation for me. Yeah! I can squat lower than a 20 inch box now. I feel stronger, leaner, and increased my indurance. I have lost 2 pants sizes but not much weight. I also ran a 5K for once in my life which I would say was not very easy but I did it!!
Logan - Results have been fantastic; everything Clay told me in the elements class has worked. Better strength, cardio, flexibility, balance and much more.
What do you like most about CF?
Theresa - I love our motivating and inspiring trainers first and foremost, but we have such a great group of CrossFitters, I feel like we are a big family. A big shout out to Lori who has always been there rooting me on.
Logan - I love the people and the trainers. I love the intense workouts that you don’t get at many gyms, and I like seeing new pr’s.
What is your favorite CF exercise?
Theresa - My favorite exercise is the one I have finally finished, just kidding! I guess it would be situps, the one thing I can do prescribed.
Logan - I like running, and for some reason I like to power clean!
Least favorite?
Theresa - Definetely Clean and Jerk, which is what I feel like since I have been shown a million times and still cannot perform one correctly.
Logan - Anything with the Kettlebell.
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of?
Theresa - Box steps( not jumps ) without holding on a pole to get up and getting a few double unders sporadically.
Logan - When I started I couldn’t even do women’s prescribed and now I do 95% of the workouts men’s prescribed, so that feels nice.
What CF goal are you working towards?
Theresa - Consistent double unders and maybe a Clean and Jerk correctly.
Logan - Being as good as the Mike’s, Dov, Brian, Steve, Zeke, Josh, Jesse, Clay and Kirk. They are all awesome and I'm trying to keep up with them. I still have lots to improve on.
Favorite color?
Theresa - My favorite color is red which is the color I amusingly am after each crossfit workout.
Logan - Miami Dolphin Orange!!!!!!!!
Favorite food?
Theresa - My favorite food is a creamy, cheesy, homemade macaroni and cheese.
Logan - Pizza and wings.
Where did you go on your last vacation?
Theresa - Our family drove to Texas, a long but wonderful trip. We rented a lake house with my husbands brother and spent the week on the lake.
Logan - Texas, a long 19 hour drive.
If you won $100,00 what would you do with it?
Theresa - If I won all that money I wonder if I could hire my own private plastic surgeon to keep me younger looking on the outside and an orthopaedic surgeon to keep my knees, shoulders and hips in working order. HA! HA! Also probably save for the future and take my extended family on a cruise. You just can't beat family memories.
Logan - Could I buy the Dolphins for that much?
Favorite quote?
Theresa - Too often we underestimate the power of touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around. - Leo F. Buscaglia
Logan - "Look up, get up, and don’t ever give up.” – Michael Irvin
What the TCF coaches have to say about Logan and Theresa...
Kimberly- " Theresa had significant limitations when she first came to us and it would have been much easier for her to just say "forget it" but she never did. She has worked, worked, worked... and then worked some more. As a result, we have all watched her transform. Her body looks completely different, she moves with greater ease and she handles the WODs just fine. No other athlete at TCF has made the type of unbelievable progress that she has."
"Even though he is six feet tall, Logan is like everyone's little brother at the box. He's friendly and loves to joke around but when when the clock ticks over, he gets down to business. It's been a pleasure watching Logan grow as a CrossFit athlete. He has a great future ahead of him."
Clay - "Theresa's dedication and work ethic have paid off big time. The change in her fitness level and range of motion has improved tremendously since she began. She is an example to everyone."
"If Logan continues to advance in his technique and capacity, he will enter into Firebreather status. Now if he would just increase his knowledge of sports." (Just kidding, Logan. I know one day we'll see you on ESPN.)
Kirk - "Theresa and Logan make a great team! They are always pushing hard and looking out for each other."
With an OHS like this one, it's hard to believe squatting to a 20 inch box without any weight used to be a challenge. Theresa, you're an inspiration to us all!
Logan and his game face.
CrossFit makes families "stronger!"
January 2011 - Jesse Chapman
When did you first start doing CrossFit? November 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? LSD running, occasional biking
List 3 words to describe your very first CF workout. Burning, winded, intense.
What results have you seen since starting to drink the “Kool-Aid?” Strength, improved body composition, endurance, motivation, mental toughness, discipline
What do you like most about CF? Continuous improvement and results (setting PRs), professional instruction and coaching, and the folks that workout along side of me.
What is your favorite CF exercise? Wall Balls!
Your least favorite? Snatch, (with DB squat clean thrusters a close second).
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? Being able to complete most of the WODs as prescribed.
What CF goal are your working towards? The ever elusive muscle up.
Favorite color? Green
Favorite food? French fries
Where did you go on your last vacation? Myrtle Beach, SC
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? Put a chunk on the mortgage, save some, and travel with the rest.
Favorite quote? "If you don't get nervous before you train, you don't train hard enough." -Anthony Bainbridge
What the TCF coaches have to say about Jesse.....
Kimberly - "When people are looking for the best times, Jesse's name is one they look for on the board. He's become one of the top performers because he always pushes hard, is at the box regularly, and has always been coachable. Jesse is also friendly and great to chat with. We're so glad he's a part of the TCF family."
Clay - "Jesse is quiet and determined. He has made noticeable strides in his conditioning since he started with us and you can tell by looking at him. He has become a great athlete."
Kirk - "Jesse rarely misses a WOD, works hard, and doesn't complain. These things have made him one of TCF's top athletes and a well deserved athlete of the month."
Dan - "Jesse is a great example of how consistent hard work and a great attitude toward all workouts will yield positive and noticeable results. He is always working to improve his technique and advance as a TCF athlete."
Back squattin'.
Hard work pays off .... double unders! Nice!
November 2010 - Zeke Morse
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - September 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Running and Yoga
List three words to describe your very first CF workout. - Fun! Challenging and intense.
What results have youseen since starting to drink the "Kool-Aid?" - Increased stamina, strength, endurance, eating better, more energy away from the box and really the list could go on and on.
What do you like most about CF? - As everyone has said before me... the people. I also enjoy the variety and the "What am I going to do at the gym today?" question has already been answered for you.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - All the exercises are challenging and I can honestly say I don't get excited about any one of them. I know I am better at some than others but it does not make them easy. The exercises I am better at just push harder than before.
Your least favorite? - Because I struggle with the weights and I feel uncoordinated I would say the "Snatch."
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - Even though I have since lost it, I would say the muscle up.
What CF goal are you working towards? - Getting my muscle up back and just being more proficient with the lifts.
Favorite color? - Red
Favorite food? - Sushi
Where did you go on your last vacation? - St. George Island, FL
If you won $100,00 what would you do with it? - I would save it for my girls' future college expenses.
Favorite quote? - I don't have one - I don't read.
What the TCF coaches have to say about Zeke...
Clay - "Zeke loves to work hard. His description of every workout as "fun" is an indicator of just that. You can never catch him slacking off and he always gives 100%."
Kimberly -"You know that when Zeke is in the box, he is going to work hard. He takes on every WOD with a fight and when he's done, he encourages others to keep pushing on. Zeke has made lots of progress since starting to CrossFit and continues to see his numbers improve. He's the type of guy you can count on and we're glad that he's with us at TCF."
Kirk - "Zeke is constantly positive and motivated. He is routinely setting PRs and pushing himself to improve and become the TCF Double Under King."
Dan - "Zeke always brings a positive attitude to every workout. He's willing to take on every challenge with a smile and strives to improve every day."
Double unders? No problem!
Working through another round of presses.
July 2010 - Mike Zurilla
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - March 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Lifting weights and running.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - Tough, fun, intense.
What results have you seen since starting to drink the "Kool-Aid?" I'm stronger, faster, better endurance and more flexible. I also feel my body is much more balanced. That is is some tasty Kool-Aid!
What do you like most about CF? - The people. I've met a lot of really good people through CrossFit.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - Handstand push-ups and burpees.
Your least favorite? - Snatches.
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - Being able to comoplete 15 muscle-ups in a WOD.
What CF goal are you working towards? - Becoming more proficient with my Olympic Lifts.
Favorite color? - Blue.
Favorite food? - Burgers, fries, and ice cream.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Hilton Head Island.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - It would be spread out between house, car, vacation and charity .
Favorite quote? - "Work hard, play harder."
What the TCF coaches have to say about Mike Z.....
Kimberly - "Mike is the kind of guy you want in your gym. He's a friend to all and a genuinely nice guy. Since first starting with us at TCF, he has made significant gains in all areas and is becoming a very well-rounded athlete."
Clay - "Mike's strength is amazing. Pound for pound, he's one of the strongest athletes we have."
Kirk - "Mike has a great balance of strength and endurance. He is constantly pushing himself and working hard for that next PR."
Dan - "Mike is a great asset to TCF. He always pushes hard, is very encouraging to others and seems to be genuinely interested in improving not only his fitness, but his technique as well."
Upside down and in the zone.
Getting ready to take on another SDHP.
May 2010 - Barbara Moresi (aka "Barbie")
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - I took my Elements classes in April 2009 and got my feet wet for a couple of weeks in May before going out of town for three weeks. I really got going at the beginning of June 2009.
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Immediately preceding CF I was not doing anything! I had had some health issues the previous year and had to "temporarily" cease activities - that ended up being a whole year. Before that, I designed my own combo program of boot-camp style classes, spinning classes, Pilates and Yoga. In a previous lifetime, I did competitive rowing, long distance running, and ballet!
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout? - Exhausting. Frustrating. Humbling.
What results have you seen since starting to drink the "Kool-Aid?" - Increased all-around fitness. Weight loss (30 lbs). Tremendous feeling of accomplishment.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The coaches and fellow athletes. I could never push myself as hard on my own without the encouragement and comraderie of the coaches and my fellow athletes. I love climbing the mountain without a top.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - Deadlifts.
Your least favorite? - Hard to choose between burpees, wall balls, and rope climbing. I really have to work on all three of those!
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - All of it! I keep working at whatever gets thrown at us.
What CF goal are you working towards? - Unassisted pull-ups.
Favorite color? - Orange.
Favorite food? - Sushi.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Fort Worth, Texas, and the Fiesta Bowl in Phoenix.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Helping my daughters with their school loans and making some anonymous contributions to help others.
Favorite quote? - "Wherever you go, there you are!"
What the TCF coaches have to say about Barb...
Kimberly - "Barb is a ray of sunshine. She comes into the Box and is ready to work. She continues to impress all of us with her "don't give up" attitude and willingness to keep pushing and keep pushing. We will miss her immensely as she takes a temporary job in Charlotte. I know she will spread her great energy to a Box in that area."
Clay - "Nobody works harder than Barb at improving her fitness level. She's an inspiration to the rest of us when we feel like slacking off."
Kirk - "Barb is always inspiring to me! She has an unwillingness to quit or relent to bad form that all of us could take example of. Those qualities matched with her eagerness to learn make her an awesome athlete to train."
Becoming one with the rower.
Barb is always willing to learn more. Here she is taking part in our running workshop.
March 2010 - Mendy McKenzie
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - Summer of 2007.
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Running, cardio, "the usual."
List three words to describe your very first CF workout. Well, my first ever CrossFit workout was with three women/girls. I finished last and did not complete the workout. So the best three words to desribe that would be... embarassing, crazy and intense.
What results have you seen since starting to drink the "Kool-Aid?" When I first started doing CF I was a collegiate athlete...and after doing CF it improved my performance so much that from then on I was hooked.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The friends I have created.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - I don't know if I have a favorite exercise because they all kill me but if I had to choose one then it would be deadlifts.
Your least favorite? - BURPEESSSS!
What CF exercise are you currently most proud of? - Rope climbs...but handstands here I come!
What CF goal are your working towards? - Regionals... and being able to beat Dov in a run.
Favorite color? - Pink, purple.
Favorite food? - Well, if I had to pick... pasta.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - To the beach.
If you won $100,000, what would you do with it? - I would give it to my parents.
Favorite quote? - "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air. No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." 1 Corinthians 9:22-27
What the TCF coaches have to say about Mendy....
Kimberly - "The fact that Mendy was a collegiate athlete is a testament to her natural physical ability as well as her understanding of what it takes to succeed in athletic competition. She is always up for a challenge, evident by her willingness to take a shot at this year's Games. Mendy is strong, powerful and has a warm heart. She is friendly to everyone she meets. I'd take Mendy on my team any day!"
Clay - "What I like most about Mendy is that she is proof that one doesn't have to be arrogant, rude, or foul-mouthed to be a firebreather. She shows how awesome she is through her deeds, not her words."
Kirk - "Mendy is an amazing athlete! She has an unbelievable drive to succeed and improve. It has been exciting to be a part of her quest for the CrossFit Games."
Dan - "Mendy is very focused and committed to her fitness. She has demonstrated this with the progress she has made at TCF as well as her successful qualification for Regionals of the 2010 CrossFit Games."
Deadlifts don't stand a chance.
Always working to get stronger, fitter, faster.
January 2010 Athlete of the Month - Katie Zurilla
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - I started doing CrossFit at the end of February 2009.
What fitness activities were you doing before? -I was riding the bike, running a little, and doing some weights at the Globo gym.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - This is awesome!
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid"? Oh, there have been so many changes, but overall I am slimmer, stronger, and happier.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - I would have to say the people. It may sound cliche because everyone says that but it is true! CrossFit draws a great group of people from the trainers to the members, everyone is encouraging and supportive of one another.
What is your favorite CF exercise? - I would have to say Sumo Deadlift High Pulls and Wall Balls. (I'm not so sure now that we are using the 14# ball to the 10 ft line!)
Your least favorite? - Umm... I hope it won't be held against me but I would have to say Burpees!
Favorite color? - Penn State Blue.
Favorite food? - I have a soft spot for pizza.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - The last real vacation I went on was to Kiawah Island, SC.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - I probably would pay off my debts, have fun with a little, and save the rest.
Favorite quote? - I came upon this one the other day, and I think that it rings true in so many aspects of our lives: "Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." - Helen Keller
What the TCF coaches have to say about Katie...
Kimberly - "Katie has been steadily improving ever since she started at TCF. She's gotten much stronger in all of her lifts and the fact that she is now doing unassisted pull-ups is another testament to her progress. Katie has a warm personality and provides encouragement to others. We're fortunate to have her as one of our athletes."
Clay - "I'm still amazed at the flexibility Katie shows in her squats. It's been fun watching her develop as an athlete."
Dan - "Katie has made great progress at TCF, recently achieving unassisted pull-ups. With her great attitude, good flexibility and form and strength gains, she is really improving her fitness."
Katie's hard work pays off..pull-ups with no bands!
Makin' the Deadlift look easy.
November Athlete of the Month - Scott Tart
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - February 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? - None.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - I am crazy.
What results have you seen since starting to drink the "Kool-Aid?" - I have lost pounds and I am more active.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The results.
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? Anything to do with lifting.
Your least favorite? - Burpees.
What CrossFit accomplishementare you currently most proud of? - Pull-ups.
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - Now that I can finish most WODs, I am trying to get my times better.
Favorite color? - Red.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - North Carolina mountains.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? I would give some away, spend some and save a little.
Favorite quote? - "Many are called but few are chosen." - The Bible, Matthew 22:14
What the TCF coaches have to say about Scott....
Clay - "Scott is the perfect example of someone thinking that they can't do this only to find out they can. He's dedicated and is enjoying the rewards of it."
Kimberly - "If you would have told Scott a year ago that he'd be climbing ropes, jumping on boxes, and doing pull-ups, I think he would have looked at you like you were crazy. But that's the norm for Scott now. He's at the Box pretty much every day during the week and it's because of his dedication and 100% efforts that he's able to do these things and more. I have really enjoyed watching him progress."
Kirk - "Scott's a great athlete to be around! He always shows up early and ready to work. It has been great watching his progression from being unsure of what he was getting into all the way to the excitement and enthusiasm he now shows for the WODs."
Dan - "Scott has made strong progess in his fitness since becoming a member of TCF. He is also supportive of other members and will "holler" words of encouragment to others."
Rope climbs? No problem.
October Athlete of the Month - Julianne Chappell
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - February 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Swimming, biking, running - mostly just swimming.
List three words to describe your first CrossFit workout. - Oh my goodness!!
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - My strength and energy have increased, plus I feel I'm a bit more physically versatile than I was previously. Best of all, now I sleep like a baby just about anytime I lay down. (My nightshift colleagues are jealous.)
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The people and the results. Everyone here is supportive and encouaraging, for me that is what makes attempting any of the workouts possible. Seeing my times, numbers and abilities improve as well as having a better view of how much skill, strength and speed I have yet to develop is humbling and inspiring. I used to think I was relatively athletic, but now I realize that I'm just at the beginning.
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? Running - it's one of the few exercises we do that doesn't require my full concentration, which probably only means I need more work on proper POSE form.
Your least favorite? - Overhead squats are a huge struggle for me.
What CF accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - Pull-ups. Mine still need a lot of work, but I am excited about my progress so far.
What CF goal are you currently working towards? - Handstands. If I get comfortable with them, maybe someday I'll be brave enough to try cartwheels.
Favorite color? - Green.
Favorite food? - Currently trying to convince myself it's almonds but after the 8th it will once again be dark chocolate.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Long Beach, CA. Spent lots of time with my cute baby niece.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Donate some of it, then use the rest to take close friends and family on trips to wherever they'd like to go.
Favorite quote? - "You don't have a soul. You are a Soul. You have a body." - C.S. Lewis
What the TCF Coaches have to say about Julianne...
Kimberly - Julianne is a quiet storm. You can't let her shy demeanor fool you when it comes to CrossFit. She works hard, is not afraid to go for broke, and as a result she's usually one of the top finishers at the end of the day. And Julianne is a pleasure to coach. She's interested in learning how she can become better and so she really listens and applies the feedback she's given.
Clay - Julianne is a great example of why one should never mistake kindness for weakness. She would be the perfect assassin.
Dan - Julie may be one of our quietest members, but her efforts speak loud and clear. She always has a smile on her face while pushing herself and others to excel. She has been making good improvements in her strength to compliment her seemingly tireless aerobic capacity.
Kirk - Julianne is the quiet assassin of Triangle CrossFit. She never complains, always has a smile, and routinely crushes the WODs.
Julianne getting the work done.
Sendin' it up!
September Athlete of the Month - Tabitha Adkins
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - In January of 09 during the first TCF Women's series.
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Jogging- yeah I was an LSD addict!
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - Ego down toilet.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - What haven't I seen? Weight loss, strength gain, a love for insane intensity and a bit of a self confidence boost!
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The intensity, diversity and the people.
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? - I may not say this during the WOD, but I love them all. Who knew that being sore in so many different places of your body could be so rewarding!!
Your least favorite? - Would Burpees be too obvious of an answer?
What CF accomplishment are you currently the most proud of? - My kipping pull ups and the improvement in my Cross Fit Total numbers.
What CF goal are you working towards? - The olympic lifts.
Favorite color? - Pink.
Favorite food? - Very non Paleo - but I am a sucker for Pasta!
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Pamlico Sound.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Buy a farm and live happily ever after.
Favorite quote? - "Well done is better than well said." - Unknown
What the TCF Coaches have to say about Tabitha...
Clay - Tabitha is a spit fire. She is not afraid of working hard and really pushes herself. She helps set the bar high for all the TCF ladies.
Kimberly - Although I don't get the opportunity to work with Tabitha much since our time together in the Women's Series, I enjoy keeping up with her advances by checking out the white board at the end of the day. She helps set the bar for the ladies at TCF and I am happy to see her doing so well.
Kirk - Tabitha keeps things interesting around TCF. With her signature pink bandanna and personal 2ft. cheerleader she takes on the WODs with determination. Another awesome athlete molded from the Women's Series!
Workin' through the CF Thruster.
Tabitha making contact during dot drills.
August Athlete of the Month - Sorry, folks. It's not that we didn't have an awesome athlete to showcase. It was just a busy month at TCF and we didn't get it done.
July Athlete of the Month - Nichole Berg
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - January 2009. Not soon enough.
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Lots of cardio (elliptical and running), no weight training.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - Longest 10 minutes EVER! (I'm cheating a bit on the 3 word requirement.)
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" Where do I begin? Increased energy levels, weight loss, significant increases to my strength and stamina, increase to self-confidence, and muscles where I never saw muscles before!
What do you like most about CrossFit? - I would say it is a tie between the awesome way I feel every day since I began CrossFitting and the spectacular people that choose to be a part of this craziness! It really is a community and I love knowing there are others out there that just "get it"!
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? - Any exercise that I can do as Rx'd!
Your least favorite? - Got to be double unders. Those darn things are my nemesis; they don't like me and I don't like them!
What CF accomplishment are you currently the most proud of? - Pull Ups! For me, it is one of the basic movements that I was really weak at, and to know I can get on that bar and pull away... feels great!
What CF goal are you working towards? - The real question is, what am I not working towards? Honestly, it is to get every exercise as Rx'd. For me that means working harder on strength and focusing on exercises like handstand push ups, ring dips and muscle ups.
Favorite color? - Hmmm, don't really have one. I like them all!
Favorite food? - Chocolate, and yes, I make room for it on the Zone!
Where did you go on your last vacation? - St. Augustine, Florida - the oldest city in the United States.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Pay off bills, put a little bit away for a rainy day and then let the family spend the rest!
Favorite quote? - Not really a quote, but more of a lite motto... Regret Nothing.
What the TCF Coaches Have to Say About Nichole...
Clay - Nichole is a prime example of what CrossFit can do for a dedicated person. Her drive and attention to her diet has paid big dividends and has made her push even harder. She's gone from someone who was "not sure about all this" to a die hard CrossFitter.
Kirk - Nichole has become a die hard CrossFitter. She constandly strives to perform more efficiently and is putting up some very impressive stats. Nichole always takes the time to meet new members and make them feel at home. Her attidute and athleticism makes her a great asset to the Triangle CrossFit family.
Dan - Nichole has a great never give up attitude. Once she starts a workout she will keep pushing to get through or achieve that new pr.
Kimberly - I had the privelege of helping introduce Nichole to CrossFit when she participated in our Women's Series this past January. She has come a long way in a short six months and this is due to her commitment and willingness to keep pushing hard through every workout. She is now passionate about the CrossFit lifestyle and that's exciting to see.
Taking charge of another OHS.
Running? Bring it on!
June Athlete of the Month - Lori Skidmore
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - February 2009
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Walking my dogs and some hiking, but nothing consistently or with any intensity for years.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - Challenging, sickening, embarassing.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid"... (aka CrossFit) - I am stronger, more flexible, have increased endurance/recovery and have lost weight. I actually have arm and shoulder muscles, even if no one else can see them yet.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The intensity - I never feel like I've wasted my time with the workouts. The intensity of the workouts make them actual events in my day and I have a real sense of accomplishment when I complete them. The variety - I love the mix of exercises I hate (but should be doing) and I like (and wish we did more of). There is always something new to learn or work on improving. The people - If you look into CrossFit you will hear about the community and it is a real force. I enjoy working out in a group. It inspires me to work harder, even when I don't think I can (or want to). There is the competitive motivation to keep going when you want to rest because "hey, I think I might be able to catch up and not finish last." The greater motivation for me is celebrating everyone's accomplishments. Although I love to celebrate and keep track of the improvements in others, I have a tendency to denigrate my accomplishments. However the amazing support and encouragement that I receive from the trainers and athletes makes me recognize my own improvements and appreciate what I've accomplished. And that is the type of atmosphere that keeps me coming back.
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? - GHD Sit-ups.
Your least favorite? - Running and dot drills.
What CrossFit accomplishment are you currently the most proud of? - Showing up, even when I look on the website and see that the day's workout will highlight all my weaknesses with exercises that make me feel slow, weak, uncoordinated, and completely unconditioned just READING about them. Of course, those are the days I need to show up the most.
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - Unassisted pull-ups and real push ups - not the girlie ones.
Favorite color? - Green.
Favorite food? - Dark chocolate.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Charleston, SC for lots of kayaking, camping and she-crab soup.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Replace my deck before it collapses, pay bills, save/invest some and travel for a few months.
Favorite quote? - "I am part of all that I have met; Yet all experience is an arch wherethro' Gleams that untravell'd world whose margin fades, For ever and forever when I move. How dull is to pause, to make an end, To rust unburnish'd, not to shine in use! As tho' to breathe were life! ~ Alfred Lord Tennyson, "Ulysses"
What the TCF Coaches Have to Say About Lori...
Clay - "Without a doubt, Lori is relentless in pursuit of her goals. Her commitment to achievement is an example to us all."
Kimberly - "Lori really goes at it. I can honestly say that I've never seen her not work hard. She is a great example to others through her commitment to fitness. And Lori is a friend to all. She always helps makes our newest athlete feel right at home."
Dan - "Lori always pushses herself to maintain a high level of intensity in any workout she does. She is not satisifed to simply maintain but is always striving to improve."
Takin' on another round of ring push-ups.
Overhead squats don't stand a chance when Lori's at the Box.
May Athlete of the Month - Dave Berg
When did you first start doing CrossFit? - Christmas 2008
What fitness acitivites were you doing before? - Typical Army PT. Push-ups, sit ups, running, and carrying heavy things on your back for long periods of time.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - Eye opening experience.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - Gains in all areas of fitness while spending less time working out.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The intensity.
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? - Whatever makes me hurt the most at the end of the day.
Your least favorite? - I will never tell.
What CrossFit accomplishment are you the most proud of? - Showing Murph who's in charge.
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - Being able to hang with Kirk and Clay.
Favorite color? - Red, white and blue.
Favorite food? - Food is simply fuel these days; you have to love the Zone.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - Washington DC
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Spend some; invest some. Nothing too crazy.
Favorite Quote? - "Endurance is not the ability to bear a hard thing, but to turn it into glory." ~ Barclay
What the TCF Coaches Have to Say About Dave...
Clay - "Dave's determination would make him seem to anyone other than a CrossFitter like he's a glutton for punishment. But it's that kind of determination that makes him a great CrossFitter as well as a great soldier."
Kimberly - "Dave tackles every WOD with a conquering attitude. He's not afraid to push and then push some more and this intensity and drive has put his name up on our leader board quite a few times. Dave is a true gem and lots of fun to joke around with too!"
Kirk - "The only easy day was yesterday!" One of Dave's famous motivational lines. There are few people in this world that are able to push themselves to their physical and mental limits and then go further. Dave is one of them. He hits every WOD like his life depends on it - because it does."
Knockin' out the Kbell Swings.
Working hard... again, and again, and again.
April 2009 Athlete of the Month - Danae Canna
When did you start doing CrossFit? - November 2008
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Stairmaster, soccer, Tae Kwon Do, and volleyball. But I still do all that stuff... except for Stairmaster.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout - Hard, fun, dizzy.
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - I don't get tired as easily and I have gotten a lot better at soccer and sports in general.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - It doesn't take that long, it is REALLY fun, I got to meet a lot of new people, and the exercises always vary so I never get bored!
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? - Squats and running.
Your least favorite? - Burpees and Pull-Ups.
What CrossFit accomplishment are you currently most proud of? - I can row, and I ran and didn't stop the whole workout!
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - Being able to do a pull up without any bands, and doing the prescribed weight.
Favorite color? - Purple and light blue.
Favorite food? - Chocolate chip ice cream and cheese puffs.
Where did you go on your last vacation ? - New York
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Give some to Operation Smile, some to With Love from Jesus, and save some.
Favorite Quote? - John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in him will not perish but have everlasting life.
What the TCF coaches say about Danae...
Clay - "I like having Danae at the Box because of her competitive spirit. She works out hard and it causes others to push hard as well. She is a pleasure to work with."
Kimberly - "I liked Danae right away. After all, there aren't many 14 year olds who are willing to endure workouts like the ones CrossFit delivers! She's quiet but competitive and I never hear her complain. I have no doubt she'll meet all of her CrossFit goals."
Kirk - "Danae has the drive of a Mack truck- there is nothing that will stop her. Her determination inspires everybody around her. She is one of our youngest athletes, but she consistently sets the bar for everyone else."
Taken during one of Danae's first Workouts in the Park.
Goin' up with the Push Press.
March 2009 Athlete of the Month - Sherry McClung
When did you start doing CrossFit? - December 3, 2008
What fitness activities were you doing before? - Aerobic videos, some strength training & starting to train for a 5K run
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. - You've got to be kidding (sorry, 5 words)
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - Strength and endurance have increased, not to mention my squats
What do you like most about CrossFit? - You never know what the WOD will be. It's never dull, boring or the "same old, same old" & when you're done, you know that you have done something.
What is your favorite CrossFit exercise? - Kettlebell swings
Your least favorite? - Rowing
What CrossFit accomplishment are you currently the most proud of? - Just being able to finish some of the WOD's & learning that I can do double-unders.
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - There are many, but here's a few - pull ups without any bands, climbing the rope, to be able to do all of my pushups on my toes and not a combo of toes and knees.
Favorite color? - Brown
Favorite food? - Just about anything chocolate
Where did you go on your last vacation? -Disney World
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Tithe, payoff my mortgage, put hardwoods down in my kitchen & then save the rest.
Favorite quote? - "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." Prov. 16:3
What the TCF coaches say about Sherry...
Clay - "Sherry pushes hard in every workout. She's willing to do what it takes to see improvement and get closer to her goals. She is also concerned with performing the exercises correctly and not merely finishing."
Kimberly - "Sherry is a great athlete in many ways. Although she knows it's going to be tough, she is eager when she walks in the door. You know that if Sherry is at the Box, she is going to give you 100%. She is one of our most consistent athletes and as a result, she is seeing some great fitness advances."
Kirk - "Sherry's name is usually the first on the board every day. She comes in early, hits it hard, and sets the standard for the rest of the day. Her natural athletic ability and drive turns out some impressive numbers."
Walking lunges - gettin' 'em done!
Sherry dominating the lift. You go, girl!
February 2009 TCF Athlete of the Month - Dan Walsh
Dan, still smilin' even after the WOD.
When did you start doing CrossFit? - April 14, 2008 Journal Beginner Routine, July 14, 2008 Scaled WODs
What fitness activities were you doing before? - "lsd" running and typical "globo gym" lifting
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout - Different, interesting, short
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kook-Aid?" - Clothes fit better, sleeping better, looking forward to the next workout
What do you like most about CrossFit? - Its effectiveness.
What is your favorite exercise? - So far, ring pull-ups.
Your least favorite? - Snatches, only because I'm not comfortable with them yet.
What CrossFit accomplishments are you currently the most proud of? - Completing the 100 Overhead Squat workout quicker than Ryan M. :-)
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - I have several - handstands, muscle-ups, linking together kipping pull-ups, and acquiring a Level 1 Certification.
Favorite color? - Don't really have a favorite.
Favorite food? - Ben & Jerry's Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice cream.
Where did you go on your last vacation? - New Zealand to see the sights and visit my brother's family.
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - Invest some and travel internationally.
Favorite Quote? - "Never never never give up." Winston Churchill
What the TCF Coaches Say About Dan...
Clay - "Dan is always attentive to his technique. This is a great example to other TCF athletes because, as we teach, the order should be technique/good form, consistency, and then intensity."
Kimberly - "Dan, what a great guy! He's consistent with his training and really pushes himself in every workout. He often stays late after classes to spend extra time on CrossFit skills - a testament to his dedication. Dan loves CrossFit as much as we do and we're glad that he's a part of the TCF family."
Kirk - "Dan is a walking FAQ link for all things Crossfit. He keeps up to date on the Crossfit world and is constantly striving to better his skills. He never hesitates to provide motivation and help the other athletes with proper form and technique."
Working hard during one of the Saturday morning Workouts in the Park.
Taking care of business during another WOD. Go Dan!
January 2009 TCF Athlete of the Month - Steve Fudge
Steve after finishing another great workout.
When did you start doing CrossFit? - April 2008
What fitness activities were you doing before? - I had been using free weights (power lifting) in a "globo gym", and running.
List three words to describe your very first CrossFit workout. "When do I rest?" (Sorry, four words.)
What results have you seen since starting to "drink the Kool-Aid?" - I have seen my endurance, flexibility and coordination increase dramatically.
What do you like most about CrossFit? - The overall level of fitness it provides. It gives you a feeling of confidence.
What is your favorite exercise? - The Deadlift.
Your least favorite? - Burpees
What CrossFit accomplishments are you currently the most proud of? - Being able to climb a rope. I haven't climbed a rope in over 25 years, and figured I never would again. CrossFit gave me the strength and confidence to do it again.
What CrossFit goal are you working towards? - I would really like to be able to crank out 20 kipping pull-ups. For a long time I've had a goal of being able to do 20 pull-ups. But, my old workouts weren't getting me anywhere near achieving that goal. I believe CrossFit will get me there.
Favorite color? - Blue
Favorite food? - Chocolate fudge
Where did you go on your last vacation? - To the beach
If you won $100,000 what would you do with it? - I'd tithe 10% to the church and I'd probably buy some investment property.
Favorite quote? - I actually have two. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Phil 4:13 and "You may be whatever you resolve to be." - Stonewall Jackson
What the TCF Coaches Say About Steve...
Clay - "Since training Steve and his son Travis from the beginning, I have noticed a vast improvement in his conditioning. He takes coaching very well, and although he has a quiet demeanor, he's always pushing others when they're working to finish their workout."
Kimberly - "Steve is a model athlete. He arrives with a positive attitude and a willingness to work hard. He's open to learning and getting better. And Steve always provides encouragement to others."
Kirk - "Steve sets the bar high for everyone at the Box. He was an inspiration to myself and others as he continued to show up for workouts even after a knee surgery that would have kept most at home."
Making his way up that rope. Way to go, Steve!
Always goin' for it on the deadlift.
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