October 2023 Athlete of the Month
October 2023 Athlete of the Month
Gary Nola
Coach’s Thoughts: We’ve had the privilege of having Gary as part of our 5:30am class since January of this year. He is dedicated and determined in each class and ups everyone's game in that 5:30 am group by bringing it everyday. Gary is a role model for his fellow athletes motivating them to strive for their personal best. He pushes his limits everyday and it has paid off as he continues to hit big lifts. We look forward to him grinding it out, representing CCF at the Battle of the Boxes in October. Congrats, Gary, on being our athlete of the month!
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
As I finished up my grad degree in 2014, I was starting to seek out a way to get into shape. That "Freshman 15#" had held on for 8 years. I'd recently seen someone go through a transformation through Crossfit and decided to give it a try myself. I'm probably coming up on my 10 year mark!
Favorite Movement?
Double unders. It's my superpower. Although, there's also no better feeling than a PR Snatch, right?
What advice would you give to someone who is hesitant to start CrossFit?
Well, as corny as it sounds, Crossfit really did change my life. Why hesitate to start something that could have that profound of an effect?
Favorite thing about CCF?
My 5:30am squad. There's a lot of talented athletes that grind it out with me every morning. I love that we chase each other and there's competition. Pitter patter. I'm also big on a good Kevin Fukala scream.
What do you do when you’re not at CCF (job, hobbies, other fitness, etc)?
I'm a Mechanical Engineer at a Tier 1 Automotive Supplier. We make parts that make your car quieter. I'm in charge of GM sales, design, quality, project management - you name it. I also have a side hustle doing real estate development and airbnbs. I love golf, ceramics and playing guitar. I also picked up hockey this year. I'm obsessed.
What is your next big fitness goal?
I'd love to join the 400 club for deadlift. Currently at 365, but the last attempt went up pretty easy….
