Kipping it Real With Kory!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. September’s Athlete of the Month is Kory Robertson. Kory was a Crossfit coach in the past, and it shows! He is always cheering on people around him, and always has a positive attitude and a growth mindset. He has been with us at OPCF for a couple of months and it has been amazing having him here. Read below to learn about Kory and what he has to say! Another unique thing about Kory is that he has a garden and makes some bomb pickles(ask our members)!!  We are so happy to have Kory with us at OPCF, and could not be more proud than to recognize Kory for our September Athlete of the Month!

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

– I started going full time back in May of 2023, which is crazy to think because I’ve been welcomed by so many people and have created several awesome relationships in my short time. 

 

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

– My first CF workout was back in 2010 and I remember it had to do with doing tire flips, slam balls, and wall balls. That workout kicked my butt and I was hooked because I was fed a big ol’ piece of humble pie!

What has been your favorite workout so far?

– I really enjoyed the workout with 5 reps of muscle up + 2 ring dips because, again, that humble pie tasted bitter sweet. 

 

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

– I remember wanting to be a veterinarian when I was young, then I when to college to be an engineer (for half a semester), then I did Kinesiology. I am now a firefighter for the City of OP after my 10 years of coaching fitness. 

What do you like to do outside of work?

– I love to golf, hunt, fish, take my boys places to run around and spend time with my beautiful wife, Carissa. 

 

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

– Remember to challenge yourself. That doesn’t mean you have to “kill” yourself every workout. It just means be consistent, ask the coaches for guidance and give yourself small wins with the occasional failure to keep your hunger for humble pie. The big wins will come when you least expect them. 

What is on your bucket list?

– A bear hunt, a Canadian moose hunt, and shooting a 160+” deer in KS

 

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

– I couldn’t go a day without Jesus. I don’t deserve the life I have. I’ve messed up so many times and probably should have died at least 5 times by now, but by the grace of God I have a wonderful family, an awesome job, something to work toward and eternal life with my Creator. If you are wondering what that is like, come talk to me. 

If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?

– My lab would tell me I stretch myself too thin sometimes and I forget to stop to give her snuggles. Life gets crazy with kids and I don’t really remember life without them so it is nice to be reminded to slow down and love on my pup that’s been my shadow for almost 9 years. 

What is your favorite random fact?

– Pain will always go away. Whether it be the pain of your lungs and muscles burning during a workout, or pain from life beating you up; all pain will cease. The workout will end and you WILL recover from the workout, I promise. All other pain will cease when Jesus returns and finally brings His people home. Again, if you don’t know what I mean, please come ask me. 

What is your go-to karaoke song?

– I’m not a great singer at all but if I had to pick one it would have to be “Chicks dig it” by Chris Cagle. You’re welcome.

 

Kipping it Real With Annie!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. August’s Athlete of the Month is Annie Wasman. Annie is so fun to be around! She brings all the energy, jokes, happiness, hard work and dedication every day she walks through the doors! She has been putting in the work; she is currently working towards the goal of a pull up. She has also been upping the intensity with workouts and doing some of the RX track. She is also our official plant mom. All of our real plants in the gym are brought and taken care of by Annie! We are so happy to have Annie with us at OPCF, and could not be more proud than to recognize Annie for our August Athlete of the Month!

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

I started the day lock down ended in May 2020!

 

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

I was terrified to walk through those doors! Covid lock down was not fun for me, so I was feeling extremely insecure.

I still remember at that Saturday morning I went to my first class; Amanda Hayes told me I was strong (we were doing air squats…) but damn I needed to hear those words! I don’t remember the rest of the workout, but those simple words of encouragement gave me the motivation to come back the next week!

 

What has been your favorite workout so far?

I love anything with thrusters! I was also excited to do Karen and see how much my wall balls have improved over the years.

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

I really wanted to be a professional tennis player; Serena Williams is still my favorite player. I’ve played tennis since I could hold a racket and learned mostly from my mom and grandpa. I played on scholarship in college as well!

I currently work for The University of Kansas Health System – Cancer Center as an admin for multiple physicians. I love being able to support these intelligent individuals and watch us make positive impacts on patients’ lives!

 

What do you like to do outside of work?

Travel! If you see me at a Saturday workout, it’s only because Spencer wouldn’t let me book a trip! We’re trying to go to all 50 states together, so you can find us road tripping across the US or visiting friends and family. I’m also an avid plant keeper and gardener, with some stunning 10ft tall sunflowers this year. Some would say I have too many house plants but I’m pretty good at ignoring the haters.

 

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Underachieving is still achieving – Ron Swanson. You do not have to be in shape to show up, even if you must scale a scaled workout! Everyone starts somewhere and everyday it’s going to get a little bit easier.

 

What is on your bucket list?

Going to all 50 states with Spencer, doing a road trip through New Zealand, sitting at center court at Wimbledon!  Getting a pull up is on my gym bucket list next!

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?
Coffee. Just a nice cup of coffee in the AM keeps me from murdering feeling grumpy all day!

If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?
Sadie, our 10.5-year-old boss dog, is a daddy’s girl and would probably talk about how annoying I am cause I always want to snuggle. I also don’t share human food with her so she would probably complain about how lame I am!

What is your favorite random fact?
I know waayyyyyy too many facts about credit card miles and points. Most of our traveling is done by racking up miles and points, and lots of research on how to hack the systems. I’ve travelled to Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, Malta, and all over the US by redeeming points and miles!
If you ever need to know something about Southwest Airlines or Chase points, come ask!

What is your go-to karaoke song?
Nelly – Hot in Herre. It’s a gift to humanity.

Kipping it Real With Charlie!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. July’s Athlete of the Month is Charlie Martel. Charlie has been coming to OPCF for 7 months now. Charlie has been putting in the work like crazy over the past few months. He took charge on nutrition, getting down skills, and technique at the gym. He comes into the gym with a smile on his face ready to work. We have seen Charlie improve day by day, as he has been putting in the extra work. We are so happy to have Charlie with us at OPCF, and could not be more proud than to recognize Charlie for our July Athlete of the Month!

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

7 Months

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

I couldn’t tell you what my first CrossFit workout was, but my initial thought, after laying there on the ground contemplating peeling myself up, was what did I just get myself into. I do not remember what the exact workout was, I was just trying not to die 🙂 That being said, everyone I met was so awesome that I knew I’d be back. 

What has been your favorite workout so far?

None that really stick out in particular, but any strongman-type workout where I am able to utilize brute strength is always a favorite. 

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

When I grew up I wanted to be a doctor, but instead I became an entrepreneur. I own two businesses. One in construction and one in real estate. 

What do you like to do outside of work?

CrossFit, grilling/smoking meats, golf, and spending time with friends and family.  

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Keep showing up and focus on being just 1% better than yesterday.  

What is on your bucket list?

Skydiving,Travel to Europe and Australia, F1 Race in Monaco, and a Big Game Hunt.

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without? 

The internet! Definitely the internet!

If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?

Depends on which pet. One would say I’m a super hero and the other might say I’m evil.  

What is your favorite random fact?

Cursing is a sign of intelligence. It’s true–go look it up! 

What is your go-to karaoke song?

Either Tim McGraw – Something Like That or George Strait – Check Yes or No

Kipping it Real With Marcelina!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. June’s Athlete of the Month is Marcelina Januszek. Lina has been coming to OPCF since March of 2023. She is one of the most caring, and kindest people you will meet. A light of happiness is brought with her as she walks through the doors of OPCF. She is ready to get to work, and is willing to push herself in workouts. We have seen Lina improve an incredible amount over the few months that she’s been with us. Lina has become so strong in such a short amount of time. She is very outgoing and will get a silent room talking and laughing! We are so happy to have Lina with us at OPCF, and could not be more proud than to recognize Marcelina for our June Athlete of the Month!

 

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

 Officially from the beginning of March 2023 but my first workout was in September 2022.

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

 It was 7:30am Saturday partner workout. Single unders, row and power cleans – for time – I hated every second of it. I thought I was going to pass out, hahaha. But now I would gladly do it again. 


What has been your favorite workout so far?

 I can’t choose just one. I am having so much fun (for most of the time) that I feel like choosing one wouldn’t be fair. So let’s say all of them are my favorite.

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

 First I wanted to be an actress, then a teacher. Right now I am an au pair (nanny) and I’m taking care of baby Maia. There is a plan to become an ethics teacher or a negotiator one day (since I already have a degree in both it should be easy to find a job in it + I think I would really love and be good at it).

What do you like to do outside of work?

I like going on walks, spending time with my friends playing board games, going to the movies and I really LOVE talking and listening to people. 

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

 Listen to your body. Rest days are okay! 

What is on your bucket list?

 Too many things, hahaha. I definitely want to see more places. I’ve been dreaming about Japan during the blooming season. In CrossFit – there are so many things I want to be better at that I don’t even know where to start. Right now I’m working on getting one nice pull up. 

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

Music. My head is a non-stop radio. 

If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?

She would probably say: “She seems like she doesn’t like me and she doesn’t care about me but when I’m sick she always worries about me the most.”

What is your favorite random fact?

The faces of the people you see in your dreams are the faces of the people you met in your life. Your brain remembers them even though you may have forgotten them.

What is your go-to karaoke song?

That is probably the hardest question of all, because 85-90% of my time I sing, hum or just think about music. Technically every song is my go-to karaoke song J But if I had to choose I would probably go with “I wanna dance with somebody” by Whitney Houston or “I want it that way” by Backstreet Boys.

 

Kipping it Real with Parma!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. May’s Athlete of the Month is Parma Pullagurla. Parma has been putting in all the work, and it’s showing. He comes into every workout with a strategy-and crushes it! We have seen Parma improve in the short amount of time that he has been here. He is so fun to be around as he has a very caring, funny, and outgoing personality! We are so grateful to have Parma at OPCF and want to give him a special shoutout!

 

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

 Since last June( just a day before Murph was my first workout)”

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was? 

“It was great.. I do remember it was a Saturday workout and Matthew Sumpter was my partner. I loved that workout.”

What has been your favorite workout so far? 

“Squatting!”

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

 “Hmm, I wanted to be here (In the United States) :).. I work for Verizon.”

What do you like to do outside of work?

“Hiking and spending time with friends and family.”

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

“Don’t get intimidated.. take one step at a time.. you made a great decision being here just stick with it dont give up.”

What is on your bucket list?

“Crossfit wise :  hands stand walk and Ring muscle ups..I want to Hike all 14er’s .. so far I have done 15.”

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

“Protein shakes;)”

If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?

           “That I probably have more Patience probably :)”

What is your favorite random fact?

“I was fascinated by the fact that there are 7 identical people just like you exist in the world and in a lifetime will get a chance to see at least one.”

What is your go-to karaoke song?

“I am not very much into listening to any songs other than Indian music.. but I like this song-Alejandro ( Lady Gaga).”

 

Kipping it Real with Jackie!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. April’s Athlete of The Month is Jackie Downing. Jackie is an afternoon regular! She is a nurse practitioner in general medicine at KU. She has been doing crossfit for 6 months! Every single day that she comes in, she crushes it! We are so grateful to have Jackie at OPCF and want to give her a special shoutout! 

 

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

-6 months

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

– my first one was back in 2012, I don’t remember what it was but I do remember thinking it felt like being back in sports in high school. My husband and I were members of CrossFit diem prior to it closing and coming here.

What has been your favorite workout so far?

– anything without running or pull-ups and anything with rowing in it. 

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

– I wanted to be a veterinarian when I was growing up. I also thought it would be awesome to be an astronaut but getting carsick in vehicles ruled that career out. I currently work as a nurse practitioner in general medicine at KU.

What do you like to do outside of work?

– I grow a lot of flowers and vegetables from seed. We live on five acres in Spring Hill/bucyrus. I enjoy going to gardens, trying new breweries or wineries with my husband and traveling. I love learning, especially about plants and listening to podcasts. 

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

– Don’t judge yourself and your growth based on what others can do and give yourself grace while getting stronger. 

What is on your bucket list?

-some day I’d like to work with flowers/plants, maybe owning my own business. 

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

– coffee and sparkling water

If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?

– Barley, our crazy black lab/catahoula leopard mix would say that he loves me best even if I’m never the one that feeds him or takes him outside. 

What is your favorite random fact?

The mascot for the University of Minnesota is a golden gopher, which is my alumni. 

Kipping it Real with Drew!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. March’s Athlete of The Month is Drew Van Heuveln. Drew has been taking extra time to work on accessory work, and it shows. He has been progressing like crazy! His gymnastics skills, especially, have skyrocketed! His hard work does not go unnoticed!! If there is a rower in a workout-Drew is for sure taking the win. We are so grateful to have Drew at OPCF and want to give him a special shoutout! 

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

About a year & 9 months.

 What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

One of the first things I remember learning was toes to bar. I don’t remember the workout, but it was enough fun that I came back.

 What has been your favorite workout so far?

I liked the E4MoMs from the last few weeks a lot.

 What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

First I wanted to be a garbage man, then an orthopedic surgeon. Now I’m an electrical engineer at Honeywell.

 What do you like to do outside of work?

I like going on walks with my dog Sophie, eating/cooking good food, playing video games, rowing, skiing, and crossfit (duh).

 What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

Don’t fly and die

 If your pet could talk, what do you think they might say about you?

She’d say “He definitely didn’t feed me a few minutes ago, trust me.” 

What is your favorite random fact?

 When the US eliminated the half-penny, it had more buying power than dimes do today.

Kipping it Real with Juliana!

 

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym. February’s Athlete of The Month is Juliana France. Juliana deserves to be recognized for all of the hard work she has been  putting in at the gym. Not only is she a hard worker, she is extremely nice and motivating. We have seen Juliana encourage other members to push themselves. She believes in others when others do not believe in themselves.. She truly cares for people- and it shows! She has been making huge strides in the gym as well….including getting her first chest to bar pull-ups…amazing!!! Julianas hard work does not go unnoticed and her positive attitude is just contagious!! We are so grateful to have Juliana at OPCF!

 

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit?

I have been working out at OP for 6 months now! I love it! 

What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?

The first time I tried Crossfit it was actually back in Brazil in 2016. I absolutely hated it. When I came back to the USA I decided to try it again. I was still skeptical at first, but then I fell in love with it. I still ask myself everyday in the middle of the workout: Why do I do this? Why do I do this? hahah, but it’s very rewarding when I am done. 

 

What has been your favorite workout so far?

 

I love anything that involves a barbell.  

 

What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now?

 

I wanted to be a Lawyer. I became one in Brazil and today I work for Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) in the Legal Department. Never thought this would be possible! 

 

What do you like to do outside of work?

 

I love to dance, work out, travel and spend time with my family. 

What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF?

 

 Lower your expectations of yourself. It’s a learning process. Frustration will come but be open minded to learn and have fun. You most likely find your second family there.  

 

What is on your bucket list?

 

 I want to go to Italy!! 

 

Aside from necessities, what one thing could you not go a day without?

 

 I have a golden retriever (Tucker) and two cats (Felipe and Caramelo) . They would probably say this:  

 Tucker: Thank you very much for being my mom and making sure my dad takes me outside everyday. Thank you so much for managing my dad. I love that baby Giovana is here because she shares her food with me all the time. 

Felipe and Caramelo: Thank you so much for loving us mom. I love all the kisses and snuggles. Thank you for taking such good care and making sure our nails are always trimmed so we would not destroy the house. We love you! 

What is your favorite random fact?

 

I never had Taco Bell.

 

What is your go-to karaoke song?

 

Wannabe- spice girls

Kipping it Real with Meredith!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words. November’s Athlete of the Month is Meredith Scafe. She was chosen because of her obvious dedication to making fitness and wellness a priority. Since she has started at OPCF, she has not hesitated to ask questions about how to perform a movement correctly, how to scale/modify a workout appropriately, or how to take her fitness to the next level in general. Her positivity and joyful interactions with the other members in her class are an encouragement to everyone. Her hard work is paying off and we love having Meredith as a part of our OPCF community.

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit? Since July 2022 (for about 3 months).
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was? I don’t remember. But I’m sure I thought, wow, that was hard, and I’m sure I was super impressed by everyone else who completed it.                      
What has been your favorite workout so far? Strength workouts are my favorite. I enjoyed the squat cycle, where we did 20 squats weekly. 
What is your favorite cheat meal? Burgers and fries                                                              
What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? I wanted to be a vet. Now, I work as a psychology fellow at the University of Kansas Medical Center.   
What do you like to do outside of work? Hang out with our dogs, ride bikes, and spend time with my family.                                                        
What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF? Just keep moving!                       
What is your favorite/least favorite movement? My least favorite – WALL BALLS; my favorite – squats.                                              
What’s one CrossFit goal you have set for yourself to accomplish this next year? I really want to be able to do pull-ups and/or kip.
What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF? I have felt more confident about my ability to do different lifts and movements.         
What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far? Being able to focus more on my posture and form during lifts and movements. 
How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule? I try to be realistic about how many days I can work out, given my other commitments. I have chosen to work out 3 days during the work week, which has been motivating and is achievable given my schedule!   
What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? Go on a trip to Europe. 

 

Kipping It Real with Ryan!

Each month Overland Park CrossFit recognizes a member who exemplifies our values and motivates others in the gym to push themselves with encouraging words. October’s Athlete of the Month is Ryan Hamm. He was chosen because of how he makes working out a priority by consistently attending several classes each week. He has also made a ton of progress in his movement patterns and his ability to do more difficult gymnastics movements. His hard work is paying off and we love having Ryan as a part of our OPCF community!

How long have you been working out at Overland Park CrossFit? 6 months
What were your thoughts after your first CrossFit workout? Do you remember what it was?  I thought it was fantastic and just what I needed.  I don’t recall the actual workout but it was an EMOM with about 5 different movements.
What has been your favorite workout so far? I am not sure I have a favorite.  I just love the variety.
What is your favorite cheat meal? All of them but if I had to choose one it would be Queso Dip…it is no doubt my kryptonite.  
What did you want to be when you grew up and where do you work now? When I was young, I thought I wanted to be an orthopedic surgeon, but when I got older, I realized I didn’t want to go to school that long…I now own part of a food distribution company.
What do you like to do outside of work? Hang w/ family and friends, golf, and mountain bike.
What advice would you give a newbie just starting at OPCF? Focus on the fundamentals, not the weight.
What is your favorite/least favorite movement? Favorite = Burpees…Least Favorite = Echo Bike
What’s one CrossFit goal you have set for yourself to accomplish this next year? To be able to do muscle ups.
What changes have you seen in yourself since starting at OPCF? I have more energy!
What is your biggest improvement or proudest accomplishment thus far? The overall ability to do the movements correctly and gradually add weight.
How do you fit working out into your weekly schedule? I figure out what my kids’ activities are for the week and plug the gaps with workouts.
What is something you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet?  In the CrossFit world-kipping pull-ups and/or muscle ups.  In life…travel all over Europe!