October 22nd, 2011 was a big day for 5B Crossfit. They joined an international effort to raise money to help fight breast cancer by hosting an exercise fundraiser called “Amazing Grace.” The event was attended by participants ranging from 18 to 67 years young and included both experienced “CrossFitters” and people entirely new to this popular training program.
Total funds raised by our local 5B CrossFitters was $2335! The event is created by the Southern California non-profit organization “Barbells for Boobs” that is working in collaboration with Mammograms in Action, a non-profit breast cancer organization with the mission to provide low-income and un-insured women across America with diagnostic screening for the prevention of breast cancer.
5B CrossFit and other Wood River Valley athletes gathered in celebratory outfits ranging from hot pink tops, shorts and tutus, for a classic CrossFit benchmark workout called “Grace.” The workout entails lifting a barbell from the ground to locked-out overhead for 30 repetitions with an Olympic Weightlifting movement known as the “Clean and Jerk.” Done as prescribed, men worked with a 135-lbs barbell, and women used 95-lbs. Weights were scaled down to allow participation for any ability level, and the results were scored in elapsed time.
The local CrossFit community pulled together to help set up the event, taping barbells and weight plates with bright pink tape and setting up the new 5B CrossFit Ketchum facility as a family friendly spectator and athlete arena. Jane’s Artifacts in Hailey donated helium filled balloons, and participants brought food for a post-event potluck.
Many of the participating athletes were looking to achieve personal records, while others participated to show support for friends and family who have been affected by breast cancer. Top scores for the men’s 135-lbs event include: Miles Sweek at 2:29, Alex Dunn at 2:50, and Kyl Samway at 3:22. In the women’s 95lb division there was a tie for top score with Kerri Herlinger and Melissa Humphreys finishing at 3:37. Stepping up to a never before attempted 95-lbs effort, Kim Taylor finished in 6:15.
Anyone interested in learning more about CrossFit and being involved in this fun and supportive community of fitness enthusiasts can register to try a FREE CLASS on Saturdays at 10am. For more information, check out www.5bcrossfit.com.
