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  • MOVING FORWARD

    Jun 06, 2013

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    Being at an event, with all your friends competing and you having to spectate is much harder than I would have expected.  The NorCal Regionals weekend was full of emotional ups and downs for me but ended in closure/full acceptance of my injury and ready to charge ahead.

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  • OPEN THOUGHTS, FOOT STATUS AND WHAT NOW...

    May 05, 2013

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    recovery, Invictus

    I've taken a month to collect my thoughts and try and wrap my head about what's happened/happening... but now I'm back and ready to catch you all up on my thoughts about the Open, where I am with my healing process and what's in store for this summer.

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  • 13.1, 13.2 AND 13.3 ON ONE LEG

    Mar 24, 2013

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    Down time, rest, recovery and creative techniques have been what my last several weeks have consisted of.  A new challenge, a reason to be thankful and another life lesson on perspective.  Here's an update of my life as an athlete since I broke my foot 2.5 weeks ago.

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  • BURPEES AND SNATCHES AND TETRIS...OH MY!

    Mar 08, 2013

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    The 2013 CrossFit Games season has begun.  The first week of the Open is this week and people are dominating burpees and snatches all over the world.  Sunday is my day to attempt 13.1.  What will it bring??

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    • Gravatar of Shawn Gower

      Shawn Gower

      Posted Friday, March 08, 2013 at 11:47:19 PM

      Fucking Awesome! No regrets! See you Sunday. No matter the outcome you have my vote for most inspirational!

    • Gravatar of Renee Smith

      Renee Smith

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 12:08:56 AM

      Holy Smokes Jenny.... and here I was feeling sorry for myself with my sprained (but not broken) ankle in the air with ice on it...... and I am not even a competitive athlete... okay, okay I get it, time to regroup and push on!! your friggen awesome and inspirational thank you for setting my perspective straight!

    • Gravatar of Corey

      Corey

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 12:17:00 AM

      Damn, that is tough luck... Your head is totally in the right place and I would put money on you one legged against most other athletes if they had three legs. Whatever happens this year, you will be stronger from this occurrence; that is fact.

      I have been spending a lot of time lately remembering to be thankful for good health and a (mostly) strong body. I've been keeping in mind that you are always one freak moment away from a major bummer. You found that moment but, as you said, it could have been worse. Be thankful that you have one leg that is stronger than 5 average person's legs.

      In other words, remain thankful and go rock this thing!

    • Gravatar of Talayna Fortunato

      Talayna Fortunato

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 4:50:18 AM

      Thanks for writing this Jenny. Particularly at the end with the part about being Jenny the person not the athlete. Sometimes it's easy to forget what's truly important when we put so much time and effort into one arena of our lives. Good luck with the Open having an unfortunate injury. I just wanted to write because a similar thing happened to me with a boating accident last year. The day before the Open I ended up with a sprained elbow, leg contusion, and a broken rib. Burpees sucked more than normal but I somehow got better each week and made it thru the Open. I hope you can too, but of not it sounds like you have your head on right! Best of luck!

    • Gravatar of Steph

      Steph

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 5:28:28 AM

      I'm really sorry to hear about this Jenny. Your point of view and perspective on the accident will get you far. In the meanwhile, keep on keeping on! You will overcome :)

    • Gravatar of sarah markle

      sarah markle

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 6:00:56 AM

      Thank you for sharing your story, it is clear to see you have the trifecta- body, mind, and spirit...and that is such a blessing. No matter the outcome of this 2013 Games Season, you are a Champion.

    • Gravatar of Scott Hunter

      Scott Hunter

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 6:45:10 AM

      You are awesome and a warrior 100%! I hope you heal fast because the 2011 Games were better than 2012 because of you.

    • Gravatar of Matthew Brown

      Matthew Brown

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:03:52 AM

      Jenny, you are the only reason I am doing the open. Thanks for pushing me forward and giving me inspiration! Can't wait to keep training a long side you.

    • Gravatar of Drew Dillon

      Drew Dillon

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:05:02 AM

      Jenny,

      I had the privilege of working with a war veteran that lost a leg in Afghanistan. I got to see him perform one leg snatches. I was amazed by his focus and determination. He told me he hated watching those just wasting what they had by not living with purpose. You have an opportunity to push those around you by fighting through the workouts you can. I know everyone in your gym will go a little harder without whining after watching you nail 13.1. Just another way to look at it.... Definitely not what you wanted, but I love the mindset. Fight not to make it worse while you give it all you got and good luck!

    • Gravatar of Deanna

      Deanna

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:10:29 AM

      Indeed you are - girlfriend, daughter, sister, aunt, grand daughter, coach, friend, athlete and a momma to two beautiful labs. You have family and friends that care about you. You want to travel more, play the guitar, start a big garden and much much more. You are Jenny LaBaw the beautiful, inspirational, dedicated, loving, kind, strong, human being having an amazing life touching and influencing so many others having some interesting twists and turns on this path called life. To live with no regrets is the best!

    • Gravatar of Holly Skillen

      Holly Skillen

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:17:30 AM

      Jenny you are such a huge inspiration to so many people and motivator. This accident
      ......just makes you more so! I hope we are lucky enough to see a video of you givin' it!!

    • Gravatar of karina Nowlan

      karina Nowlan

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:19:55 AM

      You are the most amazing athlete i have ever known! A true athlete isn't the one who finishes first but the one who wont stop with anything that gets in their way. One foot and all jenny-- you will still be the strongest, fittest and toughest women in the world.

    • Gravatar of Lisa Almaguer

      Lisa Almaguer

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:29:15 AM

      Jenny! I had NO idea! You are awesome inside and out and such an inspiration to all of us. Happy to know you and your positive spirit! Go get 'em....because YOU can!

    • Gravatar of Jesse H

      Jesse H

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 7:43:30 AM

      Rumor has it the word was out that you are so awesomely prepared this year and you were going to do so well at the games that someone paid a Chico Tweeker to take you out on his bike. Just Kidding. In all seriousness, truly an inspiring post. You are an inspiration to many more than you know! You are going to do outstanding today. We at CFGR are cheering you on! Good luck and kick some one legged ass!!!

    • Gravatar of Danielle Chee

      Danielle Chee

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 8:48:43 AM

      You are amazing girl! Every time I turn around you are motivating me to strive harder and push more. I'm so proud of you!

    • Gravatar of Cyndee Kiddoo

      Cyndee Kiddoo

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 9:05:25 AM

      Jenny,
      You are an inspiration on every level. Thank you for sharing your story and your thoughts on how to face yet more adversity! You are real and your openness to share your thoughts helps motivate us all!!

    • Gravatar of Marianne

      Marianne

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 9:09:11 AM

      I happened to see your blog on Facebook. I am about to do 13.1 for the second time this morning. Thank you for helping me keep it in perspective. I wish you the very best in the open and with your recovery. I will improve today after reading this.

    • Gravatar of Vanessa Lambert

      Vanessa Lambert

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 12:42:44 PM

      The only thing that matters is love..and look at pouring over you! Heal well my sweet friend!

    • Gravatar of Cheyl Brost

      Cheyl Brost

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 3:21:29 PM

      Jenny! What can I say! You are incredible! You continue to inspire those around you and make them better just be being you! You absolutely are right... you are defined as Jenny the person and not the Athlete but believe me when I say you are remarkable at both! Best wishes! Your friend, Cheryl

    • Gravatar of Andrea Ager

      Andrea Ager

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 5:26:01 PM

      I am so sorry to hear that Jenny!
      Seeing a picture of you rowing with a skateboard under your foot doesn't even look crazy to me. All it says is that you're "making it happen." Getting fitter while putting up with what has been laid before you. You're going to push through 13.1, as you will for the rest of the Open. There will be scores you're happy with as a one legged stud, and ones you'll remind yourself that the possibilities will be endless when you're out of your cast. GOOD LUCK, and I plan on seeing your arms get HUGE! ;)

    • Gravatar of Sue Neil

      Sue Neil

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 6:30:12 PM

      What an inspiration. I too have a broken foot and immediately thought when 13.1 was released there was no way I could handle the snatches standing on one foot. I have tried burpees but can't jump up on one leg due to bad knees (I'm 54 ). So you are definatley an inspiration Jenny - good luck and I hope 13.2 is more suitable for you.

    • Gravatar of Noel de los Santos

      Noel de los Santos

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 6:31:11 PM

      I'm truly sorry to hear what happen, but things do happen for a reason. With your positive attitude I'm sure you will find a way to be a warrior. I'm sending positive thoughts and energy your way. Hope you have a speedy recovery and all works out for you no matter what the out come.

      Stay strong and stay you! :)

    • Gravatar of Baker Leavitt

      Baker Leavitt

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 8:32:31 PM

      Hey i hope you heal up quickly, thanks for writing this i enjoyed reading it.

    • Gravatar of Tim Randall

      Tim Randall

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 9:39:42 PM

      Jenny, Great Attitude! (by the way your form looks great on the C2! I can empathise with you as right after the second Week 2 years ago I hyper extended my wrist unloading my Grandson's "Mini" bike from a trailer, tripped over the ramp cable and broke my fall and it put me out of the rest of the Open in 2011, summer of 2012 I got in a dirtbike wreck in August, seperated my Shoulder but managed to do the 2012 open with limited mobility.
      2012 I SET A GOAL TO NOT GET HURT and I made it!!
      You will too, and make us all proud---GET IT

      TIM

    • Gravatar of Elona Small

      Elona Small

      Posted Saturday, March 09, 2013 at 11:07:02 PM

      Jenny- bad timing for you - how unfortunate!! .....but your determination will get you through - obviously you have great support on the outside as well as inner strength. If not this year (and I am sure you will give it your all to get there) next year you will be even more incredible!

    • Gravatar of Paul Demarco

      Paul Demarco

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 3:58:02 AM

      Best of Luck. Go to you doc and see about getting a bone stimulator. Its for non healing fractures but will help sprrd up your fresh break

    • Gravatar of Matt Pappas

      Matt Pappas

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 5:57:14 AM

      It's funny how it sometimes feels like you're being sent a message.

      The picture of you rowing with a boot instantly caught my eye. I injured my right foot not long ago (type II accessory navicular) and I haven't been training, telling myself that I can't do the WODs with a walking boot. Reading your story, though, is inspiring. I just need to ignore the mental barrier in my head and jump back in the game.

      Best of luck to you!

    • Gravatar of Arlene Smith

      Arlene Smith

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 7:01:04 AM

      You are truly inspirational, Best of luck to you!!!!

    • Gravatar of Ned Caron

      Ned Caron

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 8:14:12 AM

      Good Luck today? I will be doing it one legged as well. I severely sprained my knee skiing in Utah last week. I got very lucky and only have a very bad stain. No ACL or MCL tear so it just lots of ice for me. This is my first time doing the open and I was really gonna be bummed if i could not do it. Its nice to here of other people just making the best of it thanks for telling your story. I am shooting for 100 reps i don't think the knee will take 135 lbs snatches. Good luck

    • Gravatar of Terry Serpico

      Terry Serpico

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 8:16:24 AM

      Jenny,
      Sorry you broke your foot. It doesn't sound like its going to present much of an obstacle however. I have no doubt that you will crush the Open regardless of your new limitation.
      I broke my leg two days ago playing frisbee with my son. I had resigned myself to withdrawing from the Open, but after reading your article, I'm inspired to try! I've already put up a score for 13.1 and now I have a week to recover before I have to post 13.2.
      Go get it! And thanks for the push!

    • Gravatar of Vaughan

      Vaughan

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 8:53:52 AM

      Jenny, you're a bad-ass! I shattered my tibia playing kickball(of all things) exactly 1 year ago, the week after the 2012 Open. I was laid-up in bed for 2 months, then a wheelchair, then crutches and then a nice limp just in time to head to Cali with my new wife for the 2012 Games and our honeymoon. It's been a long road to recovery and has been challenging getting back into the swing of things but seeing this post is inspiring. Wishing you a speedy recovery!

    • Gravatar of James

      James

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 9:15:06 AM

      Good luck in your recovery. I too did 13.1 just 3 months removed from a separated shoulder and 1.5 weeks removed from a badly sprained ankle. Burpees on one foot/leg were NOT fun, nor were they fast. Heal quick!

    • Gravatar of Shawn Rider

      Shawn Rider

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 9:41:26 AM

      Jenny,
      I definitely needed to read this blog. I have trained this past year with the Outlaw Way and was hopefully on my way to regionals this year. On January 5th I buckled under a 300# clean and jerk and broke my fibula and tore the ligaments in my ankle. Surgery, a plate and 8 screws and 2 months later, I got the cast off the Monday before the Open... no strength, no ankle mobility, nothing. I can't lift heavy for a few more months until those screws are out. I feel your emotions because I've been going through them for two months, ups and downs. I own Shenandoah CrossFit and love coaching my clients but it was pretty tough watching them do 13.1 this week. I am rooting for you. I have wrote about my experiences and injury in my blog and post once a week if you have time and want to read it.
      www.regionals2014.wordpress.com

    • Gravatar of karina

      karina

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 10:41:44 AM

      My dear girl, I have goosebumps reading this for the second time. I am stunned and shocked at the sort of grit you possess. You have always been beyond tough but now, you are on a whole different playing field. I never doubted you could do anything. No matter what score you get, You will be the best person/athlete out there. You affect everyone you touch in such an amazing way. Wish I could be there to cheer you on. Love ya, and to quote Switzer, " she's so strong she makes me feel strong". xxoo

    • Gravatar of Scott

      Scott

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 11:26:05 AM

      Wow Jenny, I am in awe of your courage, strengh and inspirational message. I simply pulled a muscle when attempting the 135 lb. snatches during 13.1 and left the gym feeling depressed and not knowing if I was gonna be able to continue in the open.. Now, after reading your story I have renewed energy and will do my best no matter. Thank you for sharing your inspirational story and I wish you a very speedy recovery back to a 100%!

    • Gravatar of Holly

      Holly

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 11:28:03 AM

      The guy on the bike made a series of poor choices. Some may have been simply foolish, others were flat out wrong. He may think he "got away" but his karma went with him and he will have to deal with that. I'm rooting for you to make it through 13.1 okay and come back strong and fast for the next workouts.

    • Gravatar of SuMing

      SuMing

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 1:19:25 PM

      Thank you...

    • Gravatar of Régine Ambroise

      Régine Ambroise

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 2:06:53 PM

      Hi Jenny! You can do it! You're such an inspiration. Good luck! :-)

    • Gravatar of Miwa

      Miwa

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 3:25:58 PM

      I'm so sorry about your accident. But thank you so much for writing your story. I'm in the same situation as you. I dropped weight (175#) on my left foot druing clean practice last Saturday. My foot wasn't broken, but really hurt and swollen. Finally, my shoe fit my foot this Saturday. I wasn't going to hit WOW 13.1 this year, becasue of my injures (elbow, back & foot). I saw your article on Saturday night, and I changed my mind. Can I do it? Should I do it? You pushed me the right way. Thank you!! Good luck with the open and a fast recovery !!!

    • Gravatar of Sue Shaw

      Sue Shaw

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 5:48:28 PM

      Keen to know how you got on. Wow!

    • Gravatar of Kate

      Kate

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 5:55:10 PM

      first, that's awful....and all I can think is that someone tonya harding-ed you...but then I remember this is crossfit....so not so much.

      Second, I watched your 13.1 WOD....just. INCREDIBLE. I am in complete and TOTAL awe of you!! you are so very inspirational!

    • Gravatar of Dasha Estalilla

      Dasha Estalilla

      Posted Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 10:56:41 PM

      You. Are. A total B. A. !!! Oh my gosh, I just watched your video - I have no words! It is my first Open and I had serious butterflies before my 13.1. But now, especially after watching you, I am exhilarated and excited for 13.2. Bring it on!!!

    • Gravatar of Michelle Tirey

      Michelle Tirey

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 7:07:03 AM

      Jenny,
      You killed 13.1
      Can't wait to see you in the Games this year.

    • Gravatar of Blossom Lawrence

      Blossom Lawrence

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 7:20:13 AM

      While competing in 13.1 I dislocated my right shoulder. The pain isn't what made me cry, it was the thought that I could no longer compete in the Open due to not completing the ladder. Once I found out that I could still submit my score and compete, I was so excited. Knowing now that I will be limited on certain movements for a short while, I was broken hearted, but not broken spirited. My husband was trying to make me feel better by reiterating that unfortunate things happen to even the best of athletes, and while I know/understand that it still didn't make it ok in my head, what had just occurred. After reading Jenny's experience and unfortunate accident, she not only motivated me to keep moving forward but really helped to settle in my mind that regardless of circumstance, so long as we keep trying and giving all we have in our competitions we can achieve greatness even if we don't take 1st place. Thank you Jenny for sharing your experience and for staying strong; here's to overcoming the greatest of obstacles and competing in the biggest competition in Crossfit! Good Luck!

    • Gravatar of FitnessKelly

      FitnessKelly

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 10:10:36 AM

      Some people shouldn't be allowed on a bike - why on Earth would he come to a dead stop?!?!? Hope you heal quickly and awesome job on doing 13.1 on a messed up foot - that's very impressive!

    • Gravatar of Deb Marshall

      Deb Marshall

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 10:47:48 AM

      And crush it you did! Congratulations - you are truly an inspiration!

    • Gravatar of Kelly Kreisher

      Kelly Kreisher

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 11:01:35 AM

      This story couldn't have come at a better time;). I was in a car accident on 1/26/13. Had numerous breaks in my foot and ankle and some other sprains and stitches elsewhere. Had "LisFranc" bone fusion surgery on 2/7/13. I'm non-weight bearing for 6-8 weeks (2 to go) I've been cheering on my team at CrossFit Lewisburg. On Sunday I realized I had to try some knees to elbows and riding the airdyne bike. I may have only gotten 3 knees to elbows out before the pain in my ribs started to hurt but I felt more accomplished than most people could understand. After all of that I sat on a chair looking around at the equipment trying to figure out what I can do with one leg and not needing any help from my injured leg. My coach sent me your picture and another coach told me he has a long oars that he can bring for me. I am even more excited to get on the rower and finding more ways to start moving again while lstill following doctors orders. Thank you so much for sharing. I really appreciate the idea!

    • Gravatar of Christine Dahl

      Christine Dahl

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 1:30:22 PM

      you inspired me to do my workout even though my plan fell through. I focused on "Do what I can, not what I can't." Thanks!

    • Gravatar of Ivria

      Ivria

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 2:25:26 PM

      I broke my ankle recently and am also in a boot. I've been really broken up about it because I take such pride in my athleticism and enjoy the time I get to spend at the gym, and having this injury seems to have taken most of that away. But I saw a facebook re-post from the CrossFit Games Open that featured your story and video of you doing 13.1 "flamingo style." It really made my day.
      Will you would be taking the time over the next few weeks to post more details/vids/pics about modifications of the WODs? I know that it would definitely help someone like me who is looking for ways to still do her CF while in an air-cast.
      Thank you for your inspiring post. I wish you a speedy recovery!

    • Gravatar of Richard Henson

      Richard Henson

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 3:34:16 PM

      So sorry to hear about your injury. I hope you recover quickly. I was the #10, 2012 master mens 60+. I too was injured just before the 2013 qualifiers. I sufferd a level III separation of my left shoulder in a Masters competition in Richmond CA in January. I had my shoulder reconstructed on Valentines day. Obviously not good timing for the 2013 Games. I think that we as CrossFitters have to remember that we are occasionally going to fall down. Our job is to get up more times than we fall down. I know what a fierce competitor that you are. You will not only survive this but come back stronger for it. I plan on doing the same thing. If this keeps you from the 2013 Games. I know that I will see you at the 2014 Games. I'm planning on being there. Hope to see you there. Recover quickly!!

    • Gravatar of Mike

      Mike

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 6:28:23 PM

      I'm sorry but I saw the video and this is everything that's wrong with crossfit these days. The people clapping this idiocy on should be ashamed of themselves.

    • Gravatar of Kim Malz

      Kim Malz

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 6:59:09 PM

      Absolutely motivating and amazing. Your determination, positive outlook, and drive will resonate with so many Jenny. Best wishes for a complete recovery and continued kick ass training!

    • Gravatar of Sarah

      Sarah

      Posted Monday, March 11, 2013 at 9:01:33 PM

      Thanks for this story Jenny! I tore my achilles 5 weeks ago in event three of a competition, doing box jumps. I'm no Games Athlete, but I was still incredibly sad and frustrated to know I was going to miss competition season. I went through all the same thoughts and feelings you described. After taking some time off after surgery, I've been trying my best to explore Crossfit on my left leg while my right leg is still useless in a cast . I decided Sunday morning to try 13.1 on one leg and I'm so glad I did. I only wish I would have seen your video before I started so I would have had a goal and some more motivation!

    • Gravatar of Henry

      Henry

      Posted Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 9:41:16 AM

      I agree with Mike.

      Competing with a serious injury is idiotic, it is not inspirational. Would you let your athletes walk onto a field with a torn ACL, separated shoulder, sprained ankle? I wouldn't.

      To set an example that you are competing under hardship is fine, but there is a line and you will be crossing it if you compete.

    • Gravatar of Veronica Graves

      Veronica Graves

      Posted Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 10:46:07 AM

      Way to work Jenny, always!! Your strength and determination is so inspirational and you will succeed!

    • Gravatar of Becky Conzelman

      Becky Conzelman

      Posted Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at 8:31:12 PM

      Huge respect for you Jenny and awesome blog. I do believe good can always come from unfortunate accidents like these. Like you said maybe some extra time to heal your neck. Heal up quickly and sending you prayers for a speedy recovery. Stay strong in body and spirit as I know you will!

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  • 2013 INVICTUS WINTER ATHLETE'S CAMP

    Jan 21, 2013

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    A weekend filled with training hard, learning new skills, refining other skills, and having fun with some of the best coaches and athletes in the sport of CrossFit... what more can a person ask for?

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    • Gravatar of CJ Martin

      CJ Martin

      Posted Monday, January 21, 2013 at 6:00:40 PM

      Well that wasn't nice . . . you made me cry. Love you Jenny!!! If I could find a way to steal you and Marcus and make you live in city I would do it in a heartbeat. You're simply part of the family now.

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