What led you to try CrossFit?
I needed a change in my life. I was fat and unhappy. My mom had Alzheimer’s and My stepfather was having a hard time taking care of Mom and himself. I needed something to get me out of my head so I could think. I called 3 CrossFit boxes local to me. One called me back within 20 min and asked what my goals were. I stated hey man I need you to kick my ass so bad that I can get out of my head for 1 hour. Help me with that and I will quit smoking and help my Mom more effectively.
Why did you continue to CrossFit?
I love it and it is an important part of my life and well being.
Describe how your attitude towards health and fitness has evolved since you began your journey
Well, When I retired from the Military I said I would get fat and happy. Well, I got fat and not happy. Since starting CrossFit 6 years ago I am fit. It has helped me stop smoking, eat better, get stronger, and heal mentally. To be honest, if I had not started CrossFit I would be dead. The heart attack I had in April would have killed me. My heart would have not been strong enough to handle it.
Share a memorable CrossFit moment that makes you laugh or puts a smile on your face
Smiles
1st time I got a toe to bar,
1st time I dead lifted 340
1st time I snatched 140
What are you proud of and why?
During all my comps last year I had a blast with all my teammates. In all but one comp, I was competing with people much younger than me. And I did not care and they did not care either. I was there to say here I am and let’s go do this.
What’s your advice for other CrossFitters or people looking to start?
Just show up and put the work in. Your hard work will pay you back. Never ever quit. Grind forward.
Why the coaches chose Al as Titan of the month
The coaches had so many wonderful things to say. These are just a few.
“We’re truly lucky to have someone like Al who genuinely values friendships within our gym that go beyond the white board”,
“Just a great soul all around”,
“He makes the class fun and is full of life!”
Al is resilient, dedicated, welcoming, perseverant, willing to help and be helped, full of stories, big hearted, everyone’s long lost friend, stubborn(in the best way) and a provider of gummy bears. He shows us all how important friendships are for accountability, laughs and support.
