My first FGB -- and a day Ruth probably now regrets

Today is our own head coach Ruth’s birthday. While she may be in Buffalo right now, let’s all let make sure to post to comments today to let her know how much she’s missed!

My earliest memory of meeting Ruth was the day I first set foot into a CrossFit gym. That day I was just a chubby wide-eyed newbie and I remember seeing her in the background working on Olympic lifts. It really made me wonder if I could even do this whole “CrossFit” thing or if I needed to go back to running on an elliptical like a hamster.

Thankfully, Ruth was highly encouraging, as I’m sure you all have experienced. While I first looked up to her as a knowledgeable mentor, she has become one of my closest friends. Ruth’s still someone I consider a role model as a coach and I find myself learning from her on a regular basis. Best wishes for a wonderful birthday!!

Oh… as far as the caption on the picture above? Well I was partnered with Ruth at my first Fight Gone Bad. Since I had only been CrossFitting for a little under a month at that point, I was not very “vocal” and she made sure to let me know during her favorite exercise — wallball. (Ruth’s retelling of this event is much funnier.) Suffice to say if any of you wish for me to shut up when I’m coaching you, place the blame on Ruth.