March Athlete of the Month || Zach Ritter!
Each month we spotlight a different CFA athlete who stands out and shows just how awesome they are. What is it that makes up an Athlete of the Month? It may not be the person that finishes the fastest, Rx’s every WOD, or gets a PR every time they walk in the gym. Although we love and celebrate when those things happen, the Athlete of the Month is made up of much more than physical ability. This person shows up, gives their best every time, and then gives a little more. They are hungry to learn and always ready to do the work. They support their fellow classmates and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit Austin Community should be about.
Our March Athlete of the Month is Zach Ritter! Zach came to CFA in October of last year and fell right into place with the community! Not only is he an excellent athlete, but he’s just a great human being. We got to know Zach a little better as he stepped up and captained one of our Intramural Open teams this year and we loved seeing him jump in and guide his team so well! We’ve loved being part of the journey with him so far and celebrating the wins along the way! Zach, we are honored to have you as our March Athlete of the Month and as an awesome part of this team. Thanks for your all your hard work and we look forward to seeing all you accomplish in the years to come! Congratulations!
State your Name and/or Nickname please:
Zach Ritter
Words to live by?
Don’t let your meat loaf!
What is your fitness background?
I played lacrosse in high school and college. Tried a lot of different types of fitness after that, but never found anything that stuck until finding CrossFit.
How long have you been CrossFitting?
8 years with a couple years off in there.
Take us back to your first day of CrossFit… How did you feel? How do you compare it to workouts today?
I did a drop-in with a friend and I don’t really remember the workout but I do remember throwing up in the bathroom of the gym. I was hooked!
What’s your favorite part of CrossFit Austin?
The people. I really tried to avoid this cliché answer but it’s impossible not to. I met more great people in the first month here than I did in a year and a half at my last gym.
Current Training Goals/PRs?
Consistency. Not only in attending classes but with mobility, documenting, nutrition, etc.
What advice do you have for folks just starting out in CrossFit?
It may not be for everyone, but it is for anyone.
How do you balance staying focused in your training when life gets busy?
Control what you can and find the time.
What is your cheat meal go-to?
Cheesesteaks (whiz, no onions) and pierogis
How do you use your fitness outside of the gym?
I think everyone does whether they know it or not! I don’t really play any sports or anything anymore though.
What are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your fitness journey?
Getting older and realizing that’s not a bad thing!
Tell us about a moment you felt most proud of yourself during a workout.
Nothing specific but probably times when I’ve scaled something to make myself feel better two days later.
If you could create a WOD and name it for yourself, what would it be?
21-15-9 – HSPUs and 135# power cleans
What keeps you going on the days you don’t feel like it?
Knowing that I’ll feel better on the drive home than I do on the drive there.
What are your hobbies, interests and/or talents outside of CrossFit?
Star Wars, drums, lacrosse, Phish and my dog and cat (Rza and Clegg)
Tell us something we don’t know about you…
I visited 48 states and 6 Canadian provinces by the age of 12 in a minivan with my family on summer vacations.
Leave the fine folks of CrossFit Austin with some parting words…
Hold the wheel, read the sign
Keep the tires off the line
Just relax, you’re doing fine