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It’s just YOU against YOU


#thebestisyettocome2021


 "Be your biggest competitor. 

Challenge yourself each day to be better than you were yesterday."


A few months ago, I felt like I needed a concrete goal to keep my mind focused on something positive and to allow myself to keep growing as an athlete as well as an individual. For that reason, I decided I wanted to commit to some 'CrossFit' competitions (again). 


This past weekend, I finally got that opportunity to compete again. I was blessed to do it along side some of the most amazing athletes at an event called the Turf Games. My team did really well, finishing 16th out of 45 teams. It was an absolutely wonderful experience! 




Several weeks prior to the competition, I knew that I was nowhere near ready to compete. I was all over the place mentally and physically and my training wasn't at all tailored to get me ready for a CrossFit competition. That said, as soon as I set myself up with a goal, dedicated myself to the preparation process and surrounded myself with the right people to push and support me, I was able to make the progress I needed to make to compete at a high level again. 

I have no shame in admitting that I'm so damn proud of myself. I worked hard over the weekend, but even more, I know how much effort I put in over the last few weeks and I know the transformation that was made inside and out; it's been incredible. 


When I competed previously, around South East Asia, I always had a desire to do really well in the overall standings, but over the last 2 years, as I've learned alot about the sport of CrossFit, about life and about myself, my mindset has changed tremendously. Of course it's always more fun to sit at the top of the leaderboard, but it's just as rewarding, if not more, to see how far you can push yourself and the improvements you're able to make over time. 

I have learned that making progress and succeeding requires much more than just showing up and working hard in the gym everyday. It's about being intentional with workouts by polishing the strengths and developing the weaknesses, but also about prioritising Sleep, Rest, Recovery, Nutrition and Mindest. 


The Turf games may be done, but, as cliche as this may sound, the journey is far from over. These last few days, I have taken a little break, to rest and recover, but also to re-evaluate my strengths and my weaknesses and to make a new plan of action. 

Stay tuned...there is definitely more to come... 


"Never underestimate your power to transform yourself." 



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