Tolbert Marks

When I was asked to write down a few things about myself  I first read Dee, Mel, and Craig’s bio’s for guidance. It became evident to me that unless I took some editorial liberties with the truth that my story was not going to inspire anyone. Without boring you with too much information I can tell you very briefly what I am all about.

I met my wife, Sharilyn, on a blind date our first week of college, an unbelievable 25 years ago.  Looking back there was never much doubt about where we would end up. To say that I was lucky would be an epic understatement. Besides the fact that she tolerates me she is also an amazing wife and mother and is, seriously, as beautiful today as she was the day I met her. We are the parents of a sweet, smart 13 year old daughter and a 9 year old son who is so much like me it’s a little scary- good and bad. We have built a life together that is fulfilling in every sense. 

Why Crossfit? I will try to explain what draws me to Crossfit with the fore knowledge that some of you will scratch your heads and wonder what in the hell I’m talking about…

Many of you are in your early twenties and are making decisions that will determine the kind of lives you will have. My limited exposure to Crossfitters leads me to the generalization that most of you are high achievers, competitive, and almost always compulsive about their passions.  So let’s agree that we are, generally speaking, a different breed of cat. 

Robert Frost wrote a poem called “The Road Less Taken” that spoke to me years ago and still does today. Without trying to invoke memories of ninth grade literature class Frost’s charge was to chart your own course, take risks, live an interesting life, be different, etc.  Has a man or woman lived who didn’t envision taking the road less traveled- assumed that they would?  So why do so few people actually manage to do it?  For me it was the simple reality that I reached a point in my life where the only road I cared about anymore was the one that best provided for my families needs. Trust me, this road is never boring and is often exhilarating. It is not, however, unique.  Crossfit presented me with an opportunity to step outside of my comfort zone, break my routine, and challenge myself mentally and physically. The WOD was something that the guy next door didn’t do, couldn’t do. Crossfit presented me the opportunity to reaffirm my rejection of average Joe. NOTHING about what we do on Dyer Street is average.  I am still surprised that a year ago last month I drove over to the gym, not knowing a single person who had ever done a crossfit workout, and let Spencer put the hurt on me. Even more surprising was that I went back…I could write a book on how much I respect Spencer, Sam, and Koy and what they each bring to the table. I will just say that they inspire me to give my all, everyday.

The fitness achievements are immensely rewarding and have exceeded any expectation I may have had. They are not, however, the most rewarding aspect of the Crossfit experience for me.  It is hard to explain the bond that we develop in that gym, and I won’t attempt to do so here, but the most rewarding aspect of Crossfit for me has been the friendships made. Glad I took a little risk.

And now for the cheesy finish!!!!!!!

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference

...Robert Frost

Favorite WOD: Kelly

Least Favorite WOD: Fran (a combination of the most devastating Crossfit movement, the thruster, and my Kyrptonite, pull-ups)

My first workout ever was just Spencer and I together in the gym.  I quit after round three (I think I lied to him and told him I had a meeting; not kidding).  It is one of my most competitive WODs now.  I still feel a sense of accomplishment as I cruise into round four.

I could name a lot of my current benchmarks, but, since I'm a runner at heart, I thought it best to share with you my current 5K time.  One year earlier, before I started Crossfit, my chip-timed 5K was a PR of 24:04.  I've since replaced 75% of my running with strictly Crossfit, and my current 5K PR is three minutes faster than a year before, at 20:53.  I think it's safe to say Crossfit works.