Each month we spotlight a different CrossFit 1710 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 athletes and encourage them to reach their goals. This athlete embodies what we believe the CrossFit 1710 Community should be about.
Our February 2024 Athlete of The Month is Tae'vion Richards! Tae'vion (AKA "T") began his CrossFit journey with us on March 22, 2018. He has lost nearly 60 pounds thanks to almost 6 years of CrossFit & improved nutrition!!! T has made awesome strength, gymnastic, and fitness gains specifically in the last few months. He participated in his first partner competition, accomplished his first bar muscle up, and has hit numerous lifting and workout personal bests. Tae'vion is in the gym whenever he isn't working and will always greet you with an infectious smile and hug. Tae'vion knows how to learn AND have fun in every class. He takes coaches feedback very seriously, but also makes every class fun with his impressive dance moves between lifts :) Coach Jodie and T like to joke that they "got that dog in them," but it is obvious to all our coaches that Tae'vion is seriously hungry to grow even more. He told us in his interview, "I'm in good shape right now, but I'm just getting started. I still have a lot more to accomplish and improve." T- We have seen you grow physically and mentally stronger and are very proud of how coachable you truly are!
Get to know more about Tae'vion in his interview below.
1. TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF.
My name is Tae’vion Richards. I am 23 years old from Wharton, Texas. I graduated from Boling High School and currently work at Buc-ee’s in the warehouse night shift.
2. WHAT MADE YOU START CROSSFIT?
I played football, basketball, and track in high school, but afterward I was less physically active and gained some weight. I started CrossFit almost 6 years ago. I was out of shape and looking for a trainer. Ms. Debbie, Coach Jason’s neighbor, told my mom that he had a gym in his garage. I decided to give it a try.
3. WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED SINCE JOINING CROSSFIT 1710?
I learned that dedication and hard work can help you achieve your goals. It’s both mental and physical. Coach Jason has given me a lot knowledge about nutrition and other good talks about fitness and health.
4. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT CROSSFIT 1710 OR CROSSFIT IN GENERAL?
I like all the people. Everyone is nice and fun. Every new person is welcomed into the gym with a smile and words of encouragement. I like all the workouts because they are different each day. One day we might be lifting; the next day we might be running and then lifting. Another day might be straight up gymnastics. Having different workouts each day keeps your body moving and feeling good.
5. WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST CROSSFIT MOMENT?
PR’ing my front squat at 295 for my 1 rep max was my proudest lift. Getting a bar muscle up was my proudest gymnastic movement. I wasn’t expecting to ever be able to do that. My running has gotten way better too. Competing for the first time at the Vital Winter Games with Gabe Hutchinson was another proud moment.
6. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC TO WORKOUT TO?
I like working out to Hip Hop; Nipsey Hussle and the Creed (motion picture) soundtrack.
7. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT?
Lifting is my favorite. I like to split jerk, back squat, deadlift, and push press. Even though it’s usually people’s least favorite, I actually like burpees. I also like running workouts.
8. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE MOVEMENT/LIFT?
Power snatch is my least favorite. I also hate the bike.
9. WHAT IMPACT HAS CROSSFIT HAD ON YOUR LIFE IN AND OUT OF THE GYM?
I’m kind of a quiet guy, but CrossFit has helped me have more confidence in talking to other people.
10. WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND HOW CLOSE ARE YOU TO REACHING THEM?
My main CrossFit goal is to improve my gymnastics. I am learning to do ring muscle ups and handstand walks.
11. WHEN YOU’RE NOT CROSSFITTING WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DO?
I love to spend time with my mom, Natasha, who used to CrossFit with me. I also like to shop for clothes and actually enjoy going to work.
12. WHAT IS THE ONE TIP YOU’D GIVE SOMEONE WHO IS THINKING ABOUT STARTING CROSSFIT OR JUST STARTED?
CrossFit is not as hard as it seems. If you have never worked out before, you will be sore, but the coaches will help you work through that. Some workouts are hard, but you will find a way to push through and everyone will encourage you.
13. WHAT IS YOUR DIET LIKE? HOW HAS IT CHANGED SINCE STARTING CROSSFIT? I don’t eat fast food anymore. Coach Jason helped me add more protein to my diet. I like eggs and protein shakes for breakfast. I switch my meals up though. I’ll have vegetables or fruit with baked chicken, salmon, or tuna. Sometimes I meal prep. Sometimes I go to Chipotle.
14. RESULTS? TELL US ABOUT YOUR RESULTS!
CrossFit helps me feel better and become healthier. Since I started CrossFit, I have lost 58 pounds. Thanks to my In Body scans, I learned that I have lost 7% body fat and gained 5.5 pounds of muscle in the past 6 months. I have more energy. I feel better in clothes. I used to wear and XL shirt and now I’m a Medium shirt. I went from a 40” waist to a 36” waist in jeans. It feels amazing and unbelievable.
FREEWRITE-
CrossFit 1710 is the best gym I’ve been to. I love the coaches and all the athletes. I love how we all come together for potluck parties. The people here are like family.
(We couldn't agree more and are glad that T is part of our family!)
