CROSS-fit #115 Still Human

We all look up to people.

We look at them for strength, for comfort, for inspiration or direction.

Doing so makes sense, we all need role models and mentors in our lives.

In Crossfit, it is very obviously the head Coach.

I haven't really heard of someone in Crossfit whom doesn't look up to the coach in terms of fitness or sheer determination.

In CFSG, Coach has made such an impact in all our lives. I'm pretty sure I speak for many others as well.
However, there are days, just some days, whereby life gets tough for them.

This was visible a couple of days ago for Coach. Don't get me wrong, it isn't a sign of weakness at all.

It's a sign that he is human.

The past weekend, I returned to my beloved church, CHC.

I missed the people a whole lot, really. But to see Pastor Kong walk up the stage moved me.

This is a man whom is accused of so many things.

The media hasn't been kind to him, the public has really given it to him.

However, he is still here, walking up the stage, motivating and encouraging others.

This is a man whom is pretty much going through hell right now. 

But he's walking up the stage, preaching his heart out to inspire confidence in us all.

Look at your Pastor, your mentors, your leaders, your coach.

Many of them are likely to be going through a real tough time.

Yet they make the effort to set aside their emotions to help you, as a person and as an athlete.

Problems like that reveal how human one person can be.

No matter how high a pedestal we put the person on, he is still human.

He still feels, he still hurts and very often, still cries.

It doesn't show weakness, not at all.

It shows the strength that the individual we look up to has.

So so much strength.

Strength to be selfless.

That's just another thing to admire him for.

2012, what a year!

It is the last few days of 2012 (Few relative to the number of days in a year)

Well, 2012 has been a ball of a year, really.

I've said this pretty much every year but man!

This year has really been the best year yet.

From the kickstart of the year to the end, so many events have unfolded this year.

So many experiences, so many new friends, new cultures, new lessons, new sights and new passion.

This year has been definitely a year of 'news'.

So many places, things, experiences and people that have very easily taken my breathe away.

This is a life that I love and want it to keep getting better.

Last year was definitely a year of learning from mistakes and new experiences.

This year was just basking in them all. Trying to take in as much as I can at every turn.

So once again, as every year, here're the highlights of this entire year.

Looked through the eyes of all the firsts, hallmark moments and sights I'll never want to forget! I've learnt something from every experience, all of them, invaluable :)

(In an attempted chronological order)

1) Hong Kong / Macau

Right at the turn of the new year, a few of the better decisions I've made which kind of drove the year right ahead, missing the first week of school and heading to HONG KONG with Kris. It was a first 'real' holiday we did and it was pretty rad. I clearly recall seeing the skyline of Hong Kong and being amazed by it, going up to the mountain tops and seeing the entire city. Not forgetting wild partying at the drinking district, 10 shots in 8 seconds. HK was also the place whereby I may have just opened the gates to a Wanderlust Lionel.What can I say? Hong Kong, the fragrant city!

2) Crossfit Games 2012

Straight after the Chinese New Year was a rest-free period of body pounding. It was the "War Horses Training" Regime. I was gonna do the Crossfit Games 2012. Right there and then, I wanted to just see where I was standing at and to see how far I've come for Crossfit. Coach was a real inspiration to me, he's helped me, coached me, punished me and encouraged me. I can never thank him enough for it! Well, though I took the Games kind of lightly this year, I was pulled back down to Earth. I realized that I'm not the strongest and had many weaknesses to work on. I was stupid and made some mistakes, drinking days before the actual workout and not focusing on my diet. The Games revealed to me how much it meant to me to represent the box and go to Regionals. I, for one, am totally game on making it next year. If there's anything I've been doing for most of 2012 is prepping myself for it. I've been humbled and I'm going into the next Games season humbled as well. Another big thing which I realized was the presence and support of those close to me. My Family and Friends supported it so much! Kris was there all the time and it made doing the workouts much easier!

3) 4th Semester

The 4th Semester in NUS was when I really got things going for me. The ISE people were just amazing in that semester, they were accepting, nice and unbelievably friendly all the time. They also pack a whole lot of innovative ideas within them. I've learnt much about thinking outside the box, teamwork but most of all, guts! They don't think too much about maybe starting something new, they just do it! I love their courage and passion towards it! I'm looking forward to more semesters with these people! Live your life and how you're only young once!? If you're not making mistakes now, then when?

4) BDPs

These boys, wow these boys. I've been with them for so long and I never get tired of them. These boys have hung out with me and have welcomed Kris into the group readily every single time :). They know the deepest and darkest of secrets, they also know the very best of me. Right before leaving for exchange, they really threw me a good one and it's something to be remembered for. Many dumb nights were made with sometimes just a few or all or even just one of them. I've learnt loyalty through these fellas. I may not have seen them for long but I know that when the time comes, we'll have a hell of a party!

5) Keppel FELS

I'd always like to be known as young, wild and free really. But I guess there has to be a time whereby we all start to grow up and take responsibility for our future! So I guess the best choice was to rough it out and do what I never thought I'd do, an internship in Keppel FELS. An oil rig manufacturing company. I have got to admit, I've learnt a whole lot from them. Production, management, planning, expectation and perfection. I love the work, really. But the hours, the culture and the lifestyle just doesn't cut it for me. I said to myself I'll never work in CBD, ever!! After finishing my tour in Keppel, I said to myself, again, I'll never get my hands this dirty ever again! Not to say I hate working hard, I just didn't enjoy being that controlled. Keppel didn't just teach me the workplace skills, it taught me how to choose my path.

6) Shelby

I have no idea where this 2 came from, really. I mean, I've known them for a while now but really!? Audrey and Brenda have been my friends for long but I never knew we would form a pack like that. All the exciting drama that has occured whilst we were together and all the shit we stirred along with the concept of how our lives followed that of the characters in Gossip Girl. Being with them is always awesome (makes for great suppers too). Making a trip to Phuket with them and Kris made everything better and more comfortable if we were to all hang out. They're just great people whom, for some random reason, I can relate to and talk thrash with. They really showed me sincerity and what that meant!

7) Exchange USA

Perhaps the biggest event that occured this year. I don't think I can adequately sum up the entire echange experience in a small paragraph. Right before leaving, I was scared, I was really really scared. I didn't exactly know what to expect, what to think. I didn't know how the friends will be overseas and how much I'll miss the friends and family here in Singapore. Well, I guess I took One Bold Step and off I went. This was probably one of the best decisions I have made in my entire life. I learnt much about life,culture and many other things. I've learnt so much, things like wanting to dare, to live for the moment, to take the risk, to make time for your happiness,, to enjoy learning and desire it, to chill a little in life and to believe in your dreams. Being here in the US, I've definitely changed.

Experiences will never be forgotten and will forever be embedded in my mind. The cultures I've embraced came from everywhere made me appreciate so many things more. The School cultures here have allowed me to renew my drive for learning and not just to get good grades, school here is actually fun. The campus is picture perfect and the community, speechless. I've learnt to smile more, learnt to be happier and to make time for it. Maybe it's surreal but one great thing about this place, are the sunsets and the stars, they're absolutely breathtaking. I've grown to understand the importance of friends and people around you. I've missed so many of my friends back home, especially Kris.

Now, as this is ending, I've come to realize that they mean more to me now compared to anything else in life. I've learnt that it isn't really just the place or the people that make this whole experience the way it is, it's the combination of everything. The cycling, the lessons, the WODs, the trips, the friends, the enemies, the laughter. They all made it amazing in it's own way. I've thoroughly enjoyed USA to the very last end. I know this isn't the life that is permanent but hey, my life has been changed for sure, so will my reality. :)

8) West Coast Tripping

Right before the Semester started, I made some time for myself to simply travel about the West Coast by myself. I was hungry to discover Crossfit for myself and so I went from box to box while enjoying the culture and atmosphere the city holds. The tour was from San Jose - Santa Cruz - Los Angeles. Over there I've chanced upon some really great boxes with an immense atmosphere. Some boxes were home to superstars, seeing people like Rebecca Voigt and Annie Sakamoto, it was a little surreal honestly. But that's when the Crossfit culture really hit me, they aren't too far away, these super stars.

However, it wasn't just the Crossfit culture which surprised me, it was the entire American Culture which blew me away. I now understand why the Crossfit Model emphasises this much on community. People were ridiculously friendly, they were extremely nice all the time. Being there made me feel at ease, different cities definitely held different meanings. San Jose was all about the business and sharing of ideas, people believed in the ideas that they had. Santa Cruz was just an amazing city in itself, I enjoyed it so much, I dare say it is perhaps one of the best places to be at. It makes me feel happy just thinking about it. Los Angeles, a city where people fought for their dreams. I went for Hard Fest, there Skrillex played a set and man, it was sick. I'd highly recommend all these cities if you're ever keen on travelling the west coast! Some may not be that prominent but it was a treasure just being there, talking to the town folks and enjoying a cuppa coffee watching people go by. Definitely a great feeling I will never forget.

9) International Friends

Entering a new school is never easy, it really isn't, I was scared and massively intimidated but was bent on moving out of my comfort zone. I refused to be reliant on my Singaporean counterparts for company. So I went out and met some new people. This was one of the best choices I made during the exchange which really made a huge difference. I've met so many different people and I don't think I can accurately name every single one of them. Some were closer than others and some meant more too. There were the people whom were hard party people, quiet dinner people and some, Mad Crossfitters. All of them have found a place in my heart.

I've learnt so much from them, I really have! Thinking about them now makes me miss them already. People like Ken, Amy, Flici, Andrea and Valentine were the closer few. Developing a circle of trust and making sense of so many things and questions of the US. But everyone else, Nic, Joseph, Dennis, Di, Sam, Mark, Ryan, Nils, Saki, Eliza, they all made an impact as well. I know many of you probably won't know who these people are, but they're definitely worth mentioning. All of them, not just those named above, were awesome companions on all levels. We were strangers initially but we became a family away from home. Perhaps the most important thing that they've taught me, is that it isn't that easy to walk in and out of my life anymore, I won't let it. Friendships were chosen and will definitely be held on to!

(Special shout out to everyone I've met during exchange, you're all awesome, attractive and amazing people! If I ever have the chance to meet you in any of your countries, I'd be extremely happy)

10) Surfing

Coming for this exchange, I had initially thought that it’d be a relatively exciting one. Honestly, I had taken an easy route, I chose to stay on campus in the dorm and what made things even more easy was another Singaporean was my roommate. Upon leaving Singapore, I knew that was a mistake, I wasn’t leaving my comfort zone and I was doing things the easy way. So from that moment on, I knew I had to get out there and do things which would risk me being embarrassed or uncomfortable for moments. The first choice wasn’t a bad one. Surfing in San Onofre!

I had always envied many of my friends whom post pictures of them surfing and I always wanted to do so, it was kind of a bucket list thing. However, I never knew it would be that HARD! I mean I really had to fight my way to actually do it. The beach at San Onofre was amazing, sun set was beautiful and riding the waves for the first time was a highlight of the entire trip. Some dolphins were even seen up close in the early mornings. It may have been tough but good things are always tough. The Pacific Ocean in front of you and the sand all around you, it was a feeling that was hard to describe. This was also the trip where I met all the other international students and we really hit it off from then on!

11) Home

Somewhere in the middle of September, it hit me, that small tingling emotion which drew me back to home. I started to miss home, really badly. I started to miss my boys, the church, my family and most of all, I started to miss Kris really badly. I guess it was the support that they gave to me during the entire semester back home. I suppose they all really meant so much to me. I do look forward to seeing them all again J

12) Wildcat Crossfit

In the search of the perfect box in Tucson, I researched and saw websites of different places, went to check out their place and did various workouts. Wildcat Crossfit, this place was calm and composed, nothing really fancy, not like the gyms I have seen on the West Coast. It was slightly more down to Earth, it resembled the rustic feel I think a box should have. It somehow resembled Crossfit Singapore, not just in terms of the physical fabrication but also in the softer side of things. The people were nice and friendly and they definitely packed a punch, they challenged me to do greater things, to push my limits in working out. The coaches dabbled for long periods on mobility and form instead of just speed. There was also a focus on the conjugate programming which was all so hard to achieve, there was a balance between that and constantly varied, which was really cool. I’ve learnt various new skills, new techniques here which I do hope to bring back home

A part of the whole training experience was amplified when I really went MAD with the training regimes. I’d do double days for 3 days a week for periods and hammer my body down. Rest was also adequate cause school work wasn’t too stressful and time consuming. Eventually, I was at a stage whereby I was focusing so much on Crossfit, I felt like it was becoming my profession. A huge learning experience, I’ve learnt how to plan and program for myself and gauge how my body should feel, whether it is too tired or broken or am I just lazy today? This was all amidst juggling the workouts from Wildcat as well as some from back home. It was interesting and somehow taking ownership of training made Crossfit a whole lot more interesting.

13) UofA (Football and culture)

Here in America, there was a focus on driving your passion, in doing what you like and to keep doing that! I suppose it isn’t statistically proven but it is my opinion that the people here are generally happier than those in most parts of the globe. Simply because they can take time to grab a coffee in the middle of work, find time to meet friends, party no matter how old you are.

In the UofA, it was so so different compared to NUS. I mean, the whole learning culture here is so self-driven, self-orientated. You can pursue a degree in astronomy and nobody would judge you. Back home, it’s all about the future prospects isn’t it? It’s all serious and all about the grades. People study to do well for exams and projects, no more. However, here, people learn to genuinely enrich their knowledge, it was something that I didn’t exactly comprehend at first. Towards the exam days, lecturers would be teaching new stuff and students would listen even though it isn’t tested in the finals. The lack of the bell curve gave much room for excelling and lesser competition. Sometimes, it just feels like NUS, though is such a highly ranked university is such a let-down when it comes to grooming adults and future ambassadors of society, it feel like sometimes they’re just treating your education as a passport to your future, period. I’ve learnt from the UofA to think otherwise, to really pursue passion at it’s best.

The disparity between the 2 schools is made even more obvious when it comes to school spirit and sports. I mean, in Singapore, we all believe that we can become champion sportsmen or sportswomen. However, who really cares over there? In the UofA, or USA in general, celebrate sports like it’s the biggest thing there is. Professional athletes are like idols and they really have a shot at things. College football games are completely sold out. We are talking about easily 7000-10000 people attending a typical seasonal game. This is not even the finals or championships. People who watch come from all over town, old and new students come to cheer the school on. It’s school spirit at its utmost best, nothing I’ve seen can really be compared to these charged up students and residents from Arizona. I’m trying not to make too many comparisons but I guess this is so lacking back home! I’m gonna miss the celebration of sports and the fun that they all bring. I’m really going to miss how they believe in their companions and how they will fight on their behalf just to ensure that the teams pride is not stepped on.

14) Nocturnal Wonderland

I haven’t always been a party person (Ok, who am I kidding). But I haven’t been that much of an electronic music fan until this year. Then I decided to drag Valentine along to attend one of those Electronic Dance Music Festivals you see on youtube that often. Nocturnal Wonderland! One weekend just to go wild and crazy, why not!?

Well, it was pretty much the experience of a lifetime. I can easily say it was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had in my life. Pretty much one of the best weekends even! It was a real treat for the senses, what you saw, heard, felt was beyond amazing, if I could, I would taste the experience. The DJs whom played were out of this World. The best of the best were part of the event and raging was just sick! You would feel like everyone was one with you, nobody judged you for anything dumb that you did or said. Everyone embraced the fun and music, everyone was there to be a part of it. The music was in your heart all the time, the moments can never be adequately captured on film, we can only remember it and simply so something this Mad again. Nocturnal Wonderland really brought the term Wild to a whole new level!

15) The many USA parties

I’ve had some great parties back home, I really have. Singapore still holds the crown for being the party city of most of the places I’ve been to. The clubs are reasonably sized and massive. However, over here in the States, the parties don’t necessarily happen in the clubs. They happen wherever you want it to. It could be in a massive frat house, a slightly smaller club or a friend’s house or dorm.

I’ve been to so many different peoples houses and partying it up over at theirs. Ryans house, Flici’s house, Dee’s place. There has been the occasional big party with DJs such as Tiesto and Afrojack coming into town. Some I remember, some I don’t (Be it intentionally or not). Living the high life is totally different when drinks are cheap and accessible, when the best places are just 20 minutes away, it can’t get any better. Oh and EVERYONE parties, it doesn’t matter what age you are, what race, what background. Everyone hits it up, they all know dancing, they all know about going out and having a good night. That’s what I love about this place, they all strive to live the life and take no excuses for it.

16) Kris coming! (Sedona and Vegas)

Just when I think I was about to lose my mind, with all the hard hitting challenges in school and friends all around, (Who am I kidding, life was pretty chill). But some support wouldn’t hurt. Either way, it was quite a relief when Kris came over for a visit to Arizona! It was extremely fun and definitely memorable. Whose girlfriend travels thousands of miles, flies for 25 hours just to see her boyfriend for 10 days? It was moving and I didn’t expect it to really come to past, honestly, I was overjoyed and really happy when she touched down.

Well, it wasn’t just boring Tucson either. Travelling to different paces to keep things interesting made it an experience for me as well. Sedona was one of those places. The Red Rock city, it was literally a town in the middle of beautiful landscapes, you’d wake up and see amazing sights, go to bed with the stars in your eyes. Other than the obvious truth that wow, God is good and how majestic those things were, it was also really tranquil. It was peaceful where you were really one with nature. You could feel totally at ease with little or no worries, time will past relatively fast and you wouldn’t even notice it. It’s such a step down from the usual pace that I already know. Maybe that’s what we should be doing huh? Take some time to stop and smell the flowers!

The next city was quite the opposite though. It is also one of my most favourite cities I’ve ever been to in my life. Las Vegas! I’ve been there a total of 3 times and if I had the chance to, I’d go back there again. Yes, I splurge and spend on almost everything for a good experience, I throw money away on a 30 dollar tequila shot when I can get a whole bottle for that 30. But man! It is worth it! Las Vegas is a city of Dreams for me! No, dreams don’t get fulfilled here, you don’t see that much prosperity. But when you’re there, your mind changes, you become more outgoing, more dangerous, more adventurous and definitely more expressive. You begin to demand better treatment and expect the best out of yourself and every moment that you remain in Vegas for. But perhaps every moment we are alive, we should expect that shouldn’t we? Vegas featured Calvin Harris, Martin Solveig and was so many more DJs and awesome parties. It is truly a city I can never forget, Viva Las Vegas!

However, as Kris soon left, I guess it tore me up once again. Leaving me sad and wanting the entire exchange to end. It made me want to scrap the rest of my time here and go back with her. I guess I could but it made me realize one thing, I’m quite addicted to her.

17) Garage Games

It took me lots of guts to actually sign up for this and make turn up for this actual competition. I had decided to join the Garage games just to see how I fare with everyone else around town and to simulate how the Games would be like. Man, I was real darn nervous and scared. I recall how jittery I was entering Crossfit Purgatory to register myself, seeing all the big boys and crazy timings. Well, once again, in a competition like this, it truly revealed so many of my weaknesses as a Crossfit athlete. Weaknesses in my mind and in the physical sense were exposed.

I was underestimating myself on so many accounts and overestimating myself on many others. Entering the first workout, I had to do a Franish workout, but I busted out, my breathe was out of pace, my grip was weak and my mind just wasn’t in it. Second workout, 7 deadly sins, I was way too confident, thinking that I’ll punch through. Well, on the contrary, I went too hard too fast, busted out again. I didn’t even finish it. Towards the last workout, I was all seeking to redeem myself, going hard on all the Snatches in the Snatch ladder. I PRed my snatch after going through a whole series of snatches every 30 seconds. Now, that was something I did not expect. Then I realized, maybe it isn’t so much of just believing how much you can do. But it’s perhaps all about just going out there and having fun. You think too much about it and you’ll just get your heart rate up. In a sport whereby your heart rate is already ridiculously elevated, calm down!

18) Colorado River Canoeing

In the break of winter, a couple of the international students got out our camping gear once again and hit the outdoor adventures club doing the Colorado Canoeing trip. This was just a real great time for me to kick back, relax and enjoy the scenery and put the sport of fitness to good use. Canoeing was always fun for me, probably will take it up next time too.

What really captivated me though was the whole feeling that we were alone with nature, there was literally, nobody there except us. You could see the peaceful side of nature and how this all seemed worthwhile. This kind of made me feel like I was starting all over again, that all sins can be washed away in this World.

19) Hard Channel

Gearing up for the Crossfit Games Open 2013, Wildcat Crossfit started the best program I could ask for. A ramp up program for the athletes whom were serious about it, 2 hour training sessions every other day with all the effort devoted to improving your fitness. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an amateur or a pro, it just meant you were serious about developing your fitness, real serious. It was initially called the Viking-Demi-God-Open-Training. Well, we decided to just call it the HARD CHANNEL.

The name really spoke for itself. It got us going darn hard, harder than I have ever gone before. These trainings probably consist of all my top 10 ‘favorite’ workouts ever. It has pushed me to my utter limits. However, the most important thing I got out of this was learning how to push myself all over again, to really “GO GET IT” and living with my power animal and going with it. Other than all the trainings, I guess the HARD CHANNEL got me closer to all the other athletes. The people like Joseph, Dennis and Ryan became close training partners. Whereas Angela, Marit and Irma just became good friends, Nic amongst them became a great companion cause of his awesome programing. I have never trusted someone with my training this much before and I’m glad I did cause I’ve seen gains I’ve never imagined and am really proud of it. I’m gonna be following this programming all the way till the opens and I’m hopeful with all the improvements that would be possible!

20) Toronto / Chicago

Thanksgiving weekend, the decision was made to ditch all the school work and head up North to meet a good old friend, Yong Chao. We met in Toronto and headed down to Chicago after. It was quite a good experience meeting him once again and noticing how different our lives have changed. It has definitely followed the similar path in the sense that we all decided to step out of the comfort zone. But it made me think twice about my education, my future and my dreams in Singapore. About how if you want to pursue it, gosh don’t be afraid to!

Being in Chicago simply magnified that a whole lot too, it was a city of prosperity (Not forgetting the cold). It was a place where people chased their dreams down till they got it. They pursued excellence and before they knew it, they were set and ready to go. Perhaps it’s an Asian mentality to be more conservative to hold a bit more back. But nah, it’s time to change and move on!

 

21) San Diego

The last trip during the semester was San Diego. A trip with just a few of us, was perhaps the best choice this whole semester. San Diego was beautiful, it was lively, it was simply to die for. Honestly, I would rank San Diego the best city I’ve ever been to, ever! Simply cause it isn’t far from real business, Crossfit was massive in San Diego with Invictus being a popular one, the people were happy and easy going and best part, the beaches were insane! Getting a hostel by the beach, I heard waves’ crashing while I fell asleep, that was probably the best experience ever.

But once again, the trip was made perfect by the people. Ken, Andrea, Flici and Valentine were great travel buddies. Best part, a good circle of trust was formed, a circle of trust I never knew was possible for a group of international students like us. Perhaps friendship does transcend all boundaries 

22) Farewell Tucson

Leaving Tucson was like leaving home all over again, I guess I can’t say much about this. Simply because it was a sad experience and its effects would only be felt when the school semester does start again. It feels as though UofA has become a part of me, it has formed a core in me so much quicker and stronger compared to that in NUS. I have no idea why but I think I’ll really miss the place and the people a whole lot. All I can do now is to bring whatever I have with me back to Singapore in hopes that somehow I can make a difference. Friends will not be forgot, I’m sure of that, Arizona now holds a special place in my heart.

23) Winter Travelling!

The very last moment in this whole exchange experience ends on a really good note, with nobody else but Kris coming. Well, this post is being written while the travelling is underway. We’ve been to Boston, Washington and Dallas. Still on our itinerary would be Miami, Orlando and NYC. Of course all of them brings a different meaning to US, a different face at every turn. However, I’m just glad that I’m here with Kris and that I can get ready to go back home. I love her and I don’t think anything can replace this feeling that I have.

                   

This entire year has been amazing, I’m actually sad that it is coming to an end. Looking back like this really makes me appreciate what God has been doing in my life all this time, I look back with gratitude and thanks. I’m glad that all has occurred and happened. I guess it is just for the better, to look forward to 2013 with a strong heart. Whatever 2013 holds, no matter what stress, happiness, disappointments, achievements and victories comes my way, I’m sure 2012 has taught me enough to embrace it. Thank God for 2012, really. Now, time to bring on 2013!

Happy New Year Everyone!

CROSS-fit #114 Ken

While doing Crossfit, many are continually amazed by the movements and intensities of it all.

However, certain things need no real explanation.

They say that you can't really argue someone into the kingdom of God.

You can surely explain the whole concept of Christ or anything at all but if the other party just isn't willing then really, you're wasting your time.

During my exchange here in Arizona, I've met Ken, a Japanese.

Someone not too fluent in English but I've learnt one really important thing from him.

That communication doesn't always involve speaking.

He's sincere, kind and extremely outgoing. Most of all, he expresses most of everything via actions.

He doesn't really think too much, he just does it.

I've seen who he is through his actions and not really his speech.

I've learnt to hold back talking and maybe just do the things I wanna say I do.

If I wanna eat 2 pounds of meat, just do it! Don't talk too much bout it!

If I wanna travel the World, DO IT!

Likewise, maybe we shouldn't talk too much bout stuff.

About Crossfit or about anything at all.

People whom criticize the lifestyle may just need to see it.

So don't be shy about your convictions cause you may speak a totally different language but actions and habits speak for themselves.

Arguing will only push them away.

Ken has been an amazing friend and this is really dedicated to him.
See you in Japan real soon buddy!

CROSS-fit #113 Bear Down

Being here in Arizona, I've learnt one important phrase.

"Bear Down"

The story goes as such...

Years ago, the UofA football team was on the road to victory and it was the last championship game.

It was a tough one and it was going to take every ounce of effort.

Then the worst occured, the captain of the football team met a terrible accident.

On his death bed, he said these words.

"Tell the team to, Bear Down, Bear Down".

UofA went on to win that resounding game and emerged victors.

"Bear Down".

It isn't the simplest thing to say, not the phrase which has the best ring to it.

But it hold power and strength.

Why?

Cause it came from someone whom represents everyone in the UofA.

They identify with it, recognize it an understand the power that those 2 words have.

Enemies fear it, supporters chant it.

The words that drive you, everyday.

In Crossfit, one motivational phrase could be "Keep going".

Or something like that, but what meaning does it have? Are they just words or do they hold something deeper?

Everyone has their own version of "Bear Down". Something personal, something they don't just know but something they feel.

That's how you motivate your team, that's how you motivate yourself.

In the Bible, there're so many phrases, verses and words.

It's a treasure trove of these words. They represent who you are.

Calling on them gives strength.

It's not like a magical spell, you don't change your surroundings...

You just change yourself.

CROSS-fit 112 The fun should never end

Post Wildcat Crossfit Party and I'm adequately happy.
It's the last party I'll ever go to over here, apart from missing these guys.
I'm going to miss all the fun I've been having.
Every week, I'm learning something new. Something I never thought I could do.
The talents here are so widespread.
They're very willingly shared.
If I knew how to do a Muscle Up, I'd teach you.
If you knew Salsa, you'd teach me.

That's the fun of Crossfit.
All of us came from different backgrounds.
For sure, some of us have learnt real different things to share.
Never stop having fun here.
Never stop being too 'old' to learn something.
Be fresh, be new. :)

CROSS-fit #111 Wildcat Crossfit

I've had the great great privilege of working out with an awesome bunch of people.
I've been to many boxes all across the United States while I've been here.
However, nothing really compares to this box (Of course CFSG kicks ass)
Wildcat Crossfit!!!
So here's a shoutout to Wildcat Crossfit and something really valuable I learnt whilst I was there.I never knew that I could find a home away from home this way.
They are an amazing bunch. Honestly, they don't have games competitors, they don't have fancy stuff.
They don't have much of a perfect program.
But they're real.
They're not fancy, they don't do west side programming or do it the outlaw way.
They manage and work with us. They change things to help us.

One of most important moment in your fitness life or in your life period.
Is for someone to believe in you.
Believe that whatever you want, whatever you are striving for is actually possible.
I've heard of a friend, Ryan, whom was 300 pounds and is now 185 pounds.
Amazing?? Well, he believed he could do it, the people in Wildcat CF believed it too.
Now he's one of the Firebreathers around.

Recently, they moved into games preperation for those whom want to "go get it"!
Surprisingly, the people whom joined in, honestly, in my opinion, stood NO CHANCE in getting into the regionals AT ALL.
However, I felt something different about this bunch.
Something really really important.
That I might not be the strongest around, I might not be the best or the fittest.
I may not be Rich Froning or Annie Thorisdotter.
But when I'm here working out, I give it my all.
I may not be snatching 250# or doing Fran at 2 minutes.
But when I somehow achieve my goals, people celebrate it like I was the champion in the games.

That means a whole lot to me.
I see elderly people come in, some less fit than normal, but are treated as Rockstars when they do something they never thought they could.
This really changed my perception of Crossfit and of Life.
We don't need to be the champs of the World or champs even in our box.

We need to be champs of ourselves.

We need to believe that the change is possible and to work at it.
No, it's not just for yourself either, cause when you can break your body, your heart is seen.
All that effort, all that sheer will, is seen.
That, amongst all things, inspires.

Wildcat Crossfit, you've taught me much, I can't thank you enough :)
To Nic, Jen, Noah, Eric for all the coaching and help you've given me
To the friends I've made, too many to name, your companionship, flattery, encouragement, appreciation, congratulations and most of all, your sheer will and heart, will be missed.
I may be far away, but I'm definitely a Wildcat Crossfitter. :)

CROSS-fit #110 This has your name all over it

When something has your name all over it.

It essentially means what? That you pretty much own this workout.

And that you're great at it.

Well, I'd like for such a phrase to be coined slightly differently in a Crossfit context.

Recently I had a workout and my trainers called it mine.

My name written all over it.

I genuinely thought it'll be body weight movements, simple pull ups and MUs.

Hell no.

All my weaknesses combined in one tiny workout.

Toes to bar, grip strength, running, you name it.

Be unafriad to expose your weaknesses to others.

Cause then they'll know where to hit.

Know where to really target.

This is a different spirit from other competitions, really.

It doesn't matter if everyone knows what you suck at. Cause they really ain't competing against you.

They're doing so against themselves.

Don't hide behind your strengths.

Don't hide behind your fame, wealth and happiness.

Acknowledge your shortfalls and deal with it.

Better yet, let others in your life, those you can count on, those you're vulnerable to, know about it.

That's when the growth kicks in

CROSS-fit #109 What are your weaknesses?

In Crossfit, many many people say that their weaknesses is their strength segment of fitness.
They all say that they just wanna get stronger and the heavy stuff has been pulling them down dramatically.
But is it? Or is it something we just want to believe in?

We all have weaknesses in our lives, not just in Crossfit.
Yes, sometimes we are deficient in one area more than the other.
In this instance, it's going to be in the area of strength.
For me, its that way too, I suck at anything heavy, I suck at it so badly.
Although I'm honestly lifting heavy for my small size, it's still mediocre compared to the big boys in my box.
When it comes to the heavy metcon, I suck at it even more.

But really, is that it? So if strength is my biggest weakness, should I devote all my time to punching it out?
Well, previous Crossfit Games Champion Jason Khalipa states it very clearly.

"Question to ask yourself. Is strength really your weakness? I find so many CrossFitters working strength as a "weakness." My question is, "Can you do muscle ups well, HSPU's, run? What is your Fran, Cindy, FGB. Often times it's easy to look at strength numbers and quantify where you are at compared to others. Don't neglect CrossFit workouts. You may have weaknesses elsewhere."
 - Jason Khalipa

When its time to put the mantle to the test, that's when ALL your weaknesses gets revealed.
Your strength may be your weakness.
But my question to you is... 
Does that translate into neglecting fixing up on other weaknesses too?
Of course, of course, Crossfit focuses on strength so much since this aspect of fitness can be best translated into almost every other segment of fitness easily.
But that doesn't mean neglect the other stuff too.
"Lift heavy and smash your weaknesses"

Everyday, we all have 24 hours.
We have different priorities and "weaknesses"
Take time, to identify what is your "strength' aspect of fitness in your life
What is it that you're really not good at, but you know that if you work on it, gains will be seen on all areas of your life.
It could be spirituality? It could be how your live your life in your household.
Get a hold of that and work it and work it hard.
However, don't forget the other weaknesses too, don't forget the small details.
That makes a world of a difference.

CROSS-fit #108 Do something new!!

In a bid to be the best of the best. To make it to the Games and possibly win it.
Many coaches, many boxes adopt the "no nonsense, no bullsh*t" approach to training.
Everything is structured, everything is in place for a reason.
Workouts are chosen because they produce the best results.
However, they are no longer different.
They no longer throw in that random factor in to daily life anymore.

Think just a couple of days ago, Crossfit SG had a fun workout with the trainers.
Have a games like team workout.
It was really a treat to see that everyone was having fun with that.
Does CFSG care about results?
Of course! Damn we're darn serious about it!

But once in a while, do something new!
Recently, I did my very first "Skin the cat".
I did my very first bar MU and one arm snatch.
It doesn't exactly translate into me being the best athlete.
But hey, at least I'm having fun and doing something new!

So what's that new thing you've done today?? Maybe not in Crossfit...
But with your lives and with family around you.
What is that new spice in your life?

CROSS-fit #107 Hitting the wall

Quite a common phrase for many people, especially runners.
They hit a 'wall'.
They just can't progress anymore, they don't see any more improvements regardless of months and months of training.
They just can't seem to get to a higher level than they already are at.
For the amount of work (And this is alot of work), the returns they get are well, less than desirable.
I've seen so many people just lose the steam to push on anymore.
They lose the fight to win, they lose the fight to go for another repetition.

There's a simple saying which goes...
If you want something you've never had, you must be willing to do something you've never done.
It's stupid, really, if you do the same thing over and over again and expect to have a miraculous breakthrough.
If you're doing a Fran and only been doing Fran for the past 2 months. (This is an extreme case)
Maybe, in your first week, your Fran would probably have a huge jump! You'll feel good.
Sometime down the road, you'll still see some gains, shave some seconds off.
But you'll hit a wall, you just can't break past a certain point.

Thus, Crossfit is constantly varied.
Throw in something totally different, some heavy lifting, some fun stuff.
Some hard runs, some prowlers, some different training and programming methodologies.
Spice up your day, you'll see some really big gains!
If you've been a runner all your life, try something different! Then go back, hit a marathon.
Bam, I'm sure you'll run a PB.
If you've been staring and forecasting accounts all your life. Try something different!
Improve yourself!! After a while, you'll just be a better person overall.

Now I'm going to talk about something sensitive now.
Some may not agree, some will hate me for it, some will agree without a doubt.
Let's talk about programming.
We all try to follow a structure of programming your training here in Crossfit.
There's the heavy day, the speed day and the conditioning day, so on and so forth.
It's a template, you can fill it with whatever you want, but it's a template.

Now say you suddenly break free from that template. What's going to happen??
Do you think you're strength will jump? Or drop? Since you've been following that template forever!
You've been gaining but maybe not as rapidly, but hey it works!
So what'd you think...

A couple of months back, I came over to Tucson, Arizona.
It's been a great ride here every since.
However, the biggest change, the workout programming.
There's a whole different template they follow. Honestly, in the first few weeks, it threw my body out of sync.
However, I still tried to follow the program back home. Heavy Mondays, speed Tuesdays.
Then I started to get a bit more worn out... Double days for many days ain't fun (I'm no Froning)

So I tried it, I gave in to their template and went full out on that.
When that happened, my Power Snatch went up 20#, deadlift 20#, backsquat 10#.
The lack of adaptation and frequent weekly use of that energy pathways caused me to gain.
A whole lot more...

So what am I trying to say?
Sometimes, when things are going good for you, really good for you.
Still, change it up.
Throw yourself out of that adaptation. Let your body adapt afresh.
Gains will be massive. Growth will be measured. Try it...
Maybe the template for you life has been good, maybe, try something different.

CROSS-fit #106 The Games Prep

The much anticipated Crossfit Games 2013
To many people, it's all or nothing this year. To a few, it'll be their first.
However, one way or another, all of them, all the competitors-to-be are all gearing up for it.
They all have different programs lined up, they all have different systems and training ideas in mind.
Some are out resting and taking a break due to injuries, some are on a highway to an injury.
The smart ones are using this time to get strong, looking at their nutrition and mobility.

HyperfitUSA points out some good training tips on workout programming for the Crossfit games.
This is their link, HyperfitUSA
They make sensible conclusions on planning and preparation.
Not just for the physical concept but for the mind as well.

Many if not all athletes mostly focus on their physical training regime.
The 3 on - 1 off idea.
They follow the paleo diet real strictly and have no time to mess around.
They pound their bodies by doing multiple double day workouts (With the exception of Rich Froning)
Come back broken and beaten only to get up the next day to follow the 'plan'.

That's good and all, don't get me wrong.
I follow a training plan myself.
Being here in the states, I've got to fend for myself, do my own share of planning and programming.
The fascinating thing is that sometimes, we follow so closely to the plan, we lose sight of what really matters..
Your physical condition, your body and your mind.

If you get up one day and feel like hell.
Look at your program and it's a heavy heavy day for you.
How would you think you'll fare?

There's a fine line between being lazy or succumbing to your body and actually listening to it.
Your body doesn't feel tired simply because it's lazy. Sometimes it's really beat.
Training in that condition, that's just a recipe for an injury or deteriorating the level of gains for the same amount of time.
Remember, you're not just a Crossfit athlete, you're also a student, an employee, a father, a son, a husband and a Christian (Make time for that). So maximize your time.
But as said previously, sometimes, your body just feels lazy, you feel lethargic and tired.
But pushing through may just break that mental barrier of yours.
So it's really up to you.

And your mind.
This is perhaps the most important portion of preparation.
Of course your physical conditioning is important.
But your mindset, your mental picture, has to be trained for success.
If you're doing workouts and constantly see the three letters DNF (did not finish) on the board.
Then probably you're doing something wrong.
Living in defeat is not the way to go, it trains you to be stronger, yes it does.
However, it drains you. It causes you to lose the very aspect Crossfit was supposed to instil in you.
'Confidence' and 'Hope'.
Have a program or days where by you build up to reach desired levels.
Probably not just in Crossfit but in life.
Sometimes, if failure is all you're seeing, switch it up once in a while.

Thomas Edison failed many times to get that light bulb going
But nobody mentioned how many small successes he had along the way.
Measure those successes, keep the hope up.
Be confident.

All the best for Crossfit Games 2013!
My training has already begun! (Quite a while back now)

CROSS-fit #105 The board says otherwise

One of the few things I love about Crossfit?
You can't lie.
You can't lie about your fitness or cheat your way through this one.
(Of course if you want to cheat yourself then sure, I guess you'll live a relatively sad life)

Couple of days back, I was about to hit a relatively 'favourite' of mine.
A couplet of heavy ground to overhead and pullups. Simple and fresh
So a friend commented right before the hour commenced.
"You're gonna kill it buddy".
In my head I thought I was, I genuinely did. But hey, the only nice thing to do is to reply...
"Nah, I'm sure it'll hurt and I'm not too good and those stuff."
A failed attempt at being humble, really....

But what he said after made me change the way I answer any of such questions ever again.
"The whiteboard clearly says differently buddy, either that, or there's another Lionel around I've never met."
I had no comeback for that... I was dumbfounded.
But it's true isn't it! You don't need to hide or say anything to cover your strengths or your weaknesses!
The whiteboard says all.
It'll exclaim loudly whether you owned it or got massacred by it.

Find that whiteboard in your life and not just in crossfit.
Maybe it ain't too far away, maybe you can stop hiding right about now.
Stop hiding your weaknesses or your strengths.
People can tell... No word of a lie.

CROSS-fit #104 Embrace the SUCK!

The phrase of the week has to go to my dear trainers are Wildcat Crossfit.
Midway during probably one of the toughest workouts ever (I don't normally say this)...
One of our coaches, Nick, shouted out, keep going! Embrace the Suck!
Hilariously, one of the athletes literally walked towards a pole and embraced it.

As figurative as it sounds, gosh sometimes you need to embrace something to actually feel something inside.
Our outward nature clearly reflects our inward nature.
Often, we need to say hello to the suck, smile at it and hug it.
It could very well be the person next door whom you probably want to murder.
It may be your boss.
Or oopsie, it could just be your spouse and dearest right beside you.
But whatever it is, you've got to embrace it.
It sucks, big time. It really does.

Especially when it hurts so bad and it's been hurting for the past 10 minutes in a 15 minute workout.
Yeah, the feeling when the pain will only get worst from here on out.
Yupp. I'm sure everyone kinda knows what that feels like.
Halfway through Cindy, and really!? Push it!?
Only one way to do it... Embrace the suck.
Somehow, somewhere deep down that determined sick mind of yours.
You need to tell yourself, that...
"I Like This Suck".
"Wow, this pain is amazing!"
Somewhere along those lines.
Why!?
Cause just like every patient young child.
The goodies await at the end of the tunnel :)

CROSS-fit #103 It has to be fun!

We all want to be stronger, fitter, faster, better.

Therefore, we train.

We do Crossfit for that main reason don't we? We just want to better ourselves in every way possible.

However, has it come to a point whereby, it just isn't fun anymore?
Whereby the goals, the dreams just seem to be all that mattered, making that lift has become the entire World.

Has it come to a point whereby all you want to do is to become the fittest on Earth such that, well, it isn't fun anymore?

I've read many articles which say that training isn't a pretty walk in the park.

Don't get me wrong, training is supposed to be serious, dead serious.

But hey, when did we stop having fun in Crossfit?

The idea of Crossfit was to become a sport of fitness.

For people, like you and me to do the things we were made to do, to compete in the most basic movements!

In all that you're training for, be it in other sports or in Crossfit or even in your job.

Don't let it get all serious till it comes to a point whereby training becomes all that matters.

Chill out.

Have a fun WOD here and there. Do workouts which involve movements you know will NOT be in the Crossfit games and won't elicit the best improvements in your technique, skill or CNS. But do them just cause they're fun!

Take some time to just chill by the pool for no particular reason (No, it isn't active rest)

Crossfit is training. Serious training for that matter.

We are all striving for greatness.

But in that pursuit, don't wear yourself out in such a way that it becomes a routine, a monotonous routine.

Throw in some spice!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

CROSS-fit #102 No, you move

People will always have their say.
It's a free World, not just a country.
Everyone is entitled to their freedom of speech, no matter how derogatory.
They can say anything they want and honestly the people will.
They will remark about your dressing style, your commitment and dedication, your workout structure and philosophy.
Words will be shot at you and they will not be pleasant at all.
This is life.

Not everyone believes in the same thing as you.
Not everyone thinks just like you.
It's one thing to encourage change in the person for the better and another to just look down on another.
At times, you may feel like you discriminated.
For believing in God, for standing up for you beliefs as a Christian.
For Training this hard in Crossfit.
There is a saying, "Addiction is what the common call dedication".

Harsh words may be thrown upon you by even your loved ones.
Sometimes, it's just you, alone.
It may not be words but gestures even.
So what? What do you do?



Do just what Captain America says.
Be a boss like that.
For real, never let anyone dictate who you are, what you should believe in.

CROSS-fit #101 living it up

I was in vegas a couple of days ago and someone texted me...
Man, you're really living it up aren't you!?
Yes I am!
Shouldn't we all??

Shouldn't we all take hold of the opportunities now and go all out to have fun.
Make most out of your lives.
I hate (I rarely use such a forceful word) it when someone lives life being led by 'fate' or 'destiny'
They're good aspects and beliefs and all.
But if you're living in this current state, waiting for things to happen to you, then snap out of it!



Live here and live now!
It may sound Hedonistic in a certain sense, but aren't we investing this mindset into the future as well?
That's why many people do Crossfit.
We want to lead a better life, NOW.
Yes we want to do so in the future as well, but the real passion is the NOW.
We do Crossfit so we don't slip into the abyss of corrupted health and fitness.
So we make our own future, we make our fates.

I want to be amazed by myself on a daily basis.
I want to do new things every single day.
Living life without regrets.
Living it up.

CROSS-fit #100 Crossfit isn't just about Crossfit

No it isn't.
Everytime you step into the box, onto the platform, into the rack
Everytime you pull the bar to your shins, when your hands grab the pullup bar
Every squat, every ring work, every cheer and every sweat
Crossfit isn't always about getting stronger and fitter each step of the way.

There's a high chance, we will never be like this



No, Crossfit for the majority 90% of us all would be like this



Crossfit doesn't teach you how to be the fittest on Earth,
It teaches you to be a better you.
In and out of the box

Crossfit teaches you ...

Patience, to wait for the pull, to wait for the results, not to overtrain. Not to be greedy from the start and believe you'll be the most successful guy around during the first week of training. That like for all good things, progress needs time.

Discipline, in your diet, in your lifestyle, in your actions and words. How you conduct yourself in the box, how you treat your bar, your fellow athletes and your attitude probably determines how you are outside the box.

Humility, "Leave your ego outside the box". You don't always need to be the best in the box, you don't need to have the best time, the highest weight or the biggest biceps. You just need to better yourself, that's all that matters.

Respect, for your coach, for your fellow athletes, for the workout, for your family, friends, loved ones and most importantly, the respect for yourself.

Compassion, towards the fellow athletes whom are struggling along beside you, towards the unbelievable multitude of people whom are less fortunate than us and how we should always, always encourage,

Positivity, allowing you to always believe in yourself, that one day, you'd be able to do the greater things

To celebrate success, the small, the big and definitely celebrate the losses as well

Determination. Hell, when all things fail, when training methodologies crumble or when injury comes, nothing stops you, there're no excuses

Friendship, the athletes by your side, those you sweat and train with are probably the closest you've got when the tide turns. You learn to treasure and value those around you

The little things, overlooking the small movements, not paying attention that small inch below parallel makes a difference. And it'll make a difference in life outside the box as well.

Love, you have got to be passionate, you have to love Crossfit to stay in it. It teaches you the essence of love and passion, towards a vision, a cause, a loved one or even a belief.

Confidence, the motivation, feeling deep down inside your gut that whatever it is, you will succeed. It may not be now, it may not be in the near future, but one day, you will. In all that you do...

Integrity, counting or miscounting a rep, cheating here in the box only leads to cheating in real life. Honour yourself, give yourself some respect, have integrity. Be true to yourself.

Spirituality, cause when all else fails, when physical strengths are limited, or when you're all alone and nobody is cheering you on, there's always God, up above, giving you that extra lift and extra comfort.

Crossfit is really about life.
It doesn't just shape the physical, it moulds the mental.
It changes who you are and it effectively changes your future
So it seems, on the surface, Crossfit is all about a bunch of sweaty, grunty men whom can't stop throwing stuff around?
But maybe if you dig deeper, you might find some revelations for yourself?

CROSS-FIT #99 We'll never be perfect

About a week ago, I had my first ever big local throwdown here in Tucson.

It was NASTYYY

It wasn't a big surprise to me that I was the only Asian there.

Pretty much the smallest fellas around, I mean, these guys were huge and were stutting their stuff big time.

But hey, I'm here to compete.

Well, this ain't no 'Rocky' story, I didn't win, man I didn't even make it to average placing

I was quite roughed up at the bottom

Events like these make me see my weaknesses, they humble me.

They make me work harder.

But the point wasn't the learning from my mistakes

I had the privilege to have a real important person by my side the whole time.

My girlfriend! :) ris knew when I was down and when I did better than expected.

However, she said one thing which never really materialized.

Crossfit is a sport whereby people cheer for one another even though they've crossed the line.

Why??

Of course it's the community and everyone's friends around here.

But more than that....

Maybe it's cause we aren't really competing with the fella beside us.

We're competing with ourselves.

We don't need to hope for failure for our opponents to win, we don't need to step on others to be on top.

It's honest and true, it's real to each of us very differently.

Crossfit is so broad that there're bound to be moments where you hate or love the workout.

But at the end of the day, it's about the challenge to one's self.

I hope Crossfit remains this way, whereby the 'Spirit of the Games' remains this pure.

But more than that, I hope Crossfit athletes stay this way.

Not to cut corners, not to try to best others but ones self.

I hope everyone stays this way, not just athletes, but everyone. 

It's a naive hope, but imagine a place whereby corporations don't step on one another...

Whereby ministers don't throw each other down while pitching their campaigns.

A place where we lift, instead of throw down...

CROSS-fit #98 They be strong

Through the course of my stay here in USA.

I've seen many different types of crossfitters and many of them of different personalities, different advocates.

Those whom I'm always impressed and caught unaware with are those whom look tiny.

Gosh thy're so tiny, they don't look like they pack a punch at all.

Then 3.2.1 Go and HOOOMG!

I'm not trying to be sexist, or arrogant here.

I've got to admit, I'm not the one who's the most used to have girls take me down in workouts

But man, these girls pack a punch!

Then I realise the simple fact.

Why am I judging them? Not giving them a second thought, a benefit of a doubt.

I'm sure people look at me the same way.

This kid is small, can he do it?

So I suppose we shouldn't be too quick to judge aye.

The strength comes from deep down inside.

They may be small, they may be quiet and gentle, but inside, they're just monsters waiting to be unleashed

In a good way of course.

So chics out there! You've got my respect!

Look at your male counterparts and caution them! Tell them that one day, you'll take them down

Guys, don't ever let that happen.

CROSS-fit #97 Compete

For the first time ever, I'm actually joining a real genuine local throwdown in Crossfit.

Garage Games 2012

http://www.thegaragegames.com/events/crossfit-purgatory-redemption/

Am I scared?

Yes I sure am

Do I think I can actually win? Hell no.

But I'm doing this cause I am hungry for it.

I want to be better.

Every single day. It doesn't matter, win or lose, PR or not.

What matter is I lay it all out. This is me.

I'm not defined by my standards of fitness, no I'm not.

I'm defined by the spirit I have inside.

So I'm gonna do this. And I'm gonna come out stronger than when I first started.

The perfect run up for the Opens... Lets go!