We have heard this question over and over since we took over ownership of CrossFit Bothell. Usually asked in the short time between CrossFit classes, or by our non-gym friends and family. No matter who asks, it is usually with big, wide open, eyes and a look of pure disbelief and shock. Are we crazy?!?!?
Our lives were already full. Laura and I already work well over traditional full time hours at our “day jobs,” and we have two teenage daughters with their own activities that we attend and cart them around to. It’s not like we had a bunch of free time that we were looking to fill.
What we did have was a desire to give back to the community, and to take advantage of a new opportunity to serve the people who we have grown to love as family.
The latter part deserves a little explaining, because I was just as surprised to realize it, as those of you who know me may be to read it.
Two years ago, while I was judging a member in our gym during their open WOD, I was struck with a powerful realization. I love these people, and I care deeply about their achievements… I was floored.
I am not known for being a sensitive guy, or being any good as a care giver. If you are sick, I’m the last guy you want to be taking care of you. I’ll tell you to “Suck it up Buttercup” and toss you a puke bucket. What I am, is very protective of the people in my community circle. I care deeply about the longevity, health, and fitness of the people close to me. I am a fervent believer in the constant quest for improvement at all ages, across all domains. I am convinced that CrossFit is the most flexible, adaptive, method to improve physical fitness; providing balance between life, family, and fitness; and extending healthy life beyond “old age.”
I also wanted a business to run. I have been studying small business for many years, and I have been leading successful teams of people at my day job for even longer.
Laura and I are overly ambitious. We have always found that we can take on a just a little bit more. We have been itching for something new and different for the past year. A new learning experience, an investment opportunity, a way to give back.
I have a general rule in life: Whenever something is scary and exciting, and I don’t really know what I am doing … I jump in. Both feet. With commitment and drive. This has never failed me, and now I just can’t help myself. When this opportunity came up, we did not labor over the decision; we just leapt.
CrossFit Bothell just *felt* right from the first day we visited three years ago. We have grown to love these people more than they probably know. With talented, dedicated, coaches and an incredible blend of amazing members in the community, we have confidence that we can keep CrossFit Bothell serving the larger community, and growing it to have even greater impact. We also trust the members. We trust you to help us by telling us when you see something that needs attention, and trust you to be patient as we figure things out.
In short, we are excited by the opportunity to give back to the community that has given us so much over the years. We are here to serve you. Help us help you. Tell us what you need, and we will do everything we can to help. Tell us where you can chip into help your fellow members, and we will bring you into the circle to give back. CrossFit Bothell is a fitness community. That community is here for each other, let’s carry the torch forward.