The Conant Spirit Award is presented annually to the CFCA member who best exemplifies everything our gym stands for. Not only do nominees have to be stellar inside the gym but we look for community involvement, living an active lifestyle out of the gym and being an overall rad addition to our CFCA family.
It is with great excitement that we presented Brianna with 2024 CFCA Spirit Award at our Annual Holiday Party. Known for her unwavering positivity, dedication to our community, and ability to inspire everyone around her, Brianna embodies the heart and soul of CFCA. She is the true definition of "work hard, play harder."
Whether she is cheering on her fellow 530AMers, tackling tough workouts with determination or lending a helping hand to anyone in need, Brianna exemplifies the spirit of camaraderie and perseverance that makes our gym so special. Join us in celebrating Brianna's incredible contribution to our community - this recognition is well deserved!
What does winning the CFCA Spirit Award mean to you personally?
When I die this will be on my highlight reel! I have always looked up to past winners and thought “yep, perfect choice” and I hope other members feel the same way about me. I love this gym, this community and crossfit. I can’t imagine life without it, honestly. So thank you to Kara and previous other owners who keep the gym going. As an adult you don’t get many opportunities to “win” things so this is very special to me. It validates all the 5AM wake up calls and the so so so many burpees I’ve done.
How did you first get involved with CrossFit Cape Ann, and what has kept you coming back over the years?
Most people probably don’t know this, but I was joining the military and my mom, a previous member, recommended I join to so I could pass the physical test! I never ended up following through with the military thing but I kept coming because CrossFit/CFCA was so good for my mental health- I also lost over 25lbs over the years, another win and reason to keep coming.
In your opinion, what defines the “spirit” of the CFCA community?
To me it means showing up. It means pushing through hard work outs. It means never quitting, despite injury and fatigue. And more importantly it means pushing OTHERS to do the same.
Was there a specific moment this year that felt like a highlight for you within the CFCA community?
This year was the first year I really starting RXing workouts. I don’t remember which one it was, but really, every time I complete a workout RX, I feel so badass!I mean besides winning this award which was clearly the highlight!!!!!
Who has inspired or influenced your journey at CFCA the most, and how have they impacted you?
Id say Mark Horgan has influenced me the most. Not only as a coach, but also as a friend – at events like Spartan races, cfca dodgeball, urban golf, etc. He the strongest guy I know, so not only does he inspire me, but when im not feeling inspired, he’s there to encourage me and push me. He knows when to let me scale it or to push me when he knows I can do it
What are some ways you try to motivate or support others in the CFCA community?
My method varies. Some people need to be shamed (Will)- so a colorful txt will go out if too many workouts are missed. Others just need some friendly competition (Mary) so putting some nice numbers on the score board to motivate others to try to beat. And other need regular encouragement- some cheers and high fives! There is not a one size fits all for this.
What do you think makes the CFCA community stand out from other gyms?
CFCA cares. Like REALLY CARES. The community is always there for its members- during hard times or celebrations. If someone loses a loved one, flowers are sent. When someone has a baby, a mini shower is thrown. If someone is in a race, we are there to cheer them on! It is more than just a gym -- there are even members who have stopped coming to workouts (cancelled membership) but are still part of the community.
Can you share a memorable workout or event at CFCA that really brought the community together?
Murph without a doubt (to commemorate Memorial Day). Members from all classes, and of all abilities show up and do their version of the workout, may it be RX, scaled or with a partner. No matter which version, you always feel proud to have completed it. The cook out after is always a blast and a great way to get to get to know each other. I look forward to it every year.
How do you personally balance pushing yourself in workouts while also maintaining a supportive and encouraging attitude toward others?
I think the most important thing is to be humble. There is always someone who is going to be better than you at a movement or a workout. Some days you are strong and sometimes its just not your day. We are all here just trying to fit a workout into our busy schedules, just showing up to class is winning some days. I feel it is important to listen to your body each day and work out accordingly and treat others with that same regard- push when you feel strong and hold back when you aren’t feeling your best.
What advice would you give to someone new to CFCA about getting involved and embracing the community?
The best advice I can give is to come to Saturday team! It is the best place to meet members from all the different classes. They are also fun workouts, always with a partner or team, and a great way to recover from the workouts from earlier in the week.
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