December 30, 2006SATURDAY 061230Heroic Patrick from Brand X Martial Arts was asked why he trains. Click below for his answer... I train because I want to be able to be there for Thomas and Jane and Cathleen while also setting a good example for them. I train because without that, there's no assurance I can help my darling wife with lifting heavy objects when the need arises. I train because every single trainer I've met at BrandX is an inspiration for me, and that's an enviable record for any gym to have. I train because my kids still like to be carried sometimes. I train because Kim said my running stride was a good one and Mikki once called me a "blur," and there are some compliments that you enjoy but also feel compelled to continue making good on. I train because I never made the cut on any varsity sports teams and was always picked last for playground games. I train because my favorite brother-in-law (6'4", approximately 240 lbs) found it entirely too easy to push me into a snow drift on Mount Laguna last winter. I train because I didn't need the ten extra pounds I started CrossFit with. I train because St. Paul said something about fighting the good fight and running the good race, and however metaphorically he may have meant such verses, those first-century fishermen and Pharisees were also tough hombres, most of them. I train because the idea of "functional strength" appeals strongly to me. I train because people I like and respect also train. I train because I find that not being intimidated by bigger people is a useful kind of confidence to have. I train because I've spent a lifetime being self-conscious about the way I walk and stand, and while there's nothing I can do about a leg-length differential or mild cerebral palsy, there's a lot I can do to make those things non-issues. I train because it's a twisted kind of fun that has to do with endorphins and with shaving seconds off workout times. I train because as much as I admire Marines and cops (dad was both), there are times in life when the only "first responder" in a crisis is you. Or me. And I'd like to be useful on those occasions. I train because the BrandX trainers aren't just muscle-heads, and they never condescend. I train because I want to be physically active until I'm dead. Posted by at December 30, 2006 10:31 PMComments
Patrick, you are such an inspiration to the Crossfit Community! I had tears rolling down my face as I read your post on BX. You are an amazing role model as a husband, father, friend and Crossfitter. I miss you and love you! Nichole PS - My new goal is to keep up with you while running when I visit in March! Comment #1 - Posted by: Nichole at December 30, 2006 6:03 AMPatrick I've never met you but I like you. Your enthusiasm, honesty, determination and integrity are/should be an inspiration to us all. I also have gotten to know the BrandX crew and I have to say you are in the company of greatness. Keep up the good work!Continued success in 07' Comment #2 - Posted by: dan colson at December 30, 2006 11:30 AMThanks for that Patrick. Keep it going strong mister. Comment #3 - Posted by: steve hb at December 30, 2006 11:39 AMThat was an awesome read - thanks so much for sharing that! Comment #4 - Posted by: Becca at December 30, 2006 3:16 PMExcellent post, Patrick. I wish more people out in society looked upon things with the enthusiasm, optimism, and real-world open mindedness that you have. I am always impressed by the attributes of the CF family. Keep up the great work and success with Crossfit, Patrick. Comment #5 - Posted by: Ian Carver at December 30, 2006 4:16 PMI'm posting that up in the new gym when its ready! Comment #6 - Posted by: Pierre Auge at December 30, 2006 7:00 PMHey, Patrick, I know you think I am exaggerating when I say you kick my butt, but really. I've watched your times get better and better and you definitely run the 400 faster than I do. Keep up the good work. Comment #7 - Posted by: Laurar at December 30, 2006 7:26 PMPatrick, your post is a prayer, both touching and inspiring. Best to all of you in '07 Comment #8 - Posted by: Kevin Hughes at December 30, 2006 9:42 PMPatrick, Patrick, Thanks for representing yourself well. You are an inspiration for so many of us at Brand X and now for many others too!!! Comment #10 - Posted by: Steve Toth at December 31, 2006 9:54 AMPatrick: Patrick, You go, brother! That is one of the most honest, heartfelt, and inspiring lists I've ever read. Thanks for taking the time to write it and share it with the rest of us. ap Comment #12 - Posted by: Andy P at December 31, 2006 4:06 PMby the way, I also had tears running down my face as I read your list to my wife... Parick, that was fantastic to read, I agree with post #2, I don't even know you, but I like you already. thank you. well said. i'll remember this for a very, very long time. Comment #15 - Posted by: karen douglas at January 4, 2007 7:19 AMPatrick, Indeed you have found the community and regime that will keep you going, till you can go no more. Very moving sentiments. I wish you all the best and continued success. Patrick, (my sons name as well) Thanks for taking the time to write from your heart. I am going to share this with some folks I work with. Good words. Keep going strong. Comment #18 - Posted by: Steve Tankersley at January 17, 2007 1:27 PMPost a comment |
