The Open at 12 Labours

Certifications: CrossFit Level 1 Trainer, Dynamic Stretch Specialist, NCSF-CPT (in progress) Member Since: December/2024 Coaching Since: April/2023 Favorite Movement: Strict handstand pushups Favorite WOD: Annie, fast and fun! (when doubles are doubling) Favorite Workout Gear (i.e tape, belt, grips, wrist wraps, etc). Knee sleeves! Game-changer for squatting, walking lunges suck less, and good protection for rope climbs. Born and Raised: Born - Holland, the Netherlands. Raised - Columbia, Maryland Favorite Food: Japanese hibachi or sushi Favorite TV Show/Movie: The Vampire Diaries or Schitts Creek/The Hunger Games series Hobbies: reading/journaling, exploring new coffee shops, brunch and brewery outings on a nice day out Hidden Talent: I have been told that I am really good at writing/expressing thoughts with words. Athletic Background: I tried almost every sport in high school. Field hockey was the only one that clicked, but I didn’t pursue it post high school. I participated in pick-up sports here and there, but nothing consistent before CrossFit. Long Answer (2-3 sentences) Favorite 12 Labours Memory: This past Resolution Games, Elena and I were dancing around 4th place leading up to the final event: Tortoise vs. Hair. (let’s just say I am a Tortoise) The pressure to “send it” for the podium spot had me shaking in my boots, but we had ironically landed 3rd in that event and 3rd overall. When the results came in, I screamed, jumped for joy, and immediately located Elena to share the great news with an extra-enthusiastic jumping hug. Occupation: Marketing Specialist. I worked for a digital marketing agency for almost three years and have been freelancing and contracting since. Interesting Fact: I told myself I would never move back to Maryland when I left the state to attend Virginia Tech for college. Returning home was the best decision I have ever made and greatest joyful surprise, in-part largely for the ever-evolving close relationships that I keep developing here. Why do I coach? I coach CrossFit for greater access to the members and an ability to build close connections with athletes. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing a movement “click” for someone. Supporting their growth with front row seats to all the action is a big privilege for me. Miscellaneous - Add a custom question “What is one language you would choose to have automatically downloaded into your brain” I am half-Turkish, and would love the opportunity to communicate with some family who live there. However, I have always dreamed of spending a few months in the Netherlands, where I was born. I would have to pick Dutch.

Athlete of the Month: January - Columbia Member Spotlight: Brittany Yannuzzi @byaz6423 Brittany started at 12 Labours in April 2024 and was quickly adopted by the 3:30pm crew. The coaches say that Brittany is a ray of light to have in class because she is always so positive and willing to learn. Brittany had always loved working out, but was sidelined in 2022/23 when she had to undergo surgeries on her hip and spine. After recovering she was finding it hard to have discipline on her own and wanted to try something new in a group setting. Brittany says it been the greatest decision she’s ever made. Since starting CrossFit, it has been a great outlet for Brittany to help channel stress from her fast paced and high pressure work days. She’s noticed a big difference in her mood and energy levels since incorporating CF into her routine. When asked what she likes most about 12 Labours, Brittany said, “Everything! I love the people, the structure of the workouts but most importantly the coaches. They are top notch and so supportive. I began my journey with Coach Stef and she has truly played a vital role in my journey. Her passion for the sport quickly rubbed off on me and she has been such a positive influence in my life.I’ve also had the pleasure of really getting to know Coach Erin through her Sunday yoga classes. She has also been an incredible mentor and friend.” A standout memory for Brittany was volunteering at her first MAAC Fest where she was able to supply forklifts for the set up and breakdown of the event. It felt good for her to give back to the sport that has already given her so much in a short amount of time. A fun fact about Brittany is that she is a 2nd degree blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and she loves cars. She currently has 2024 C8 Corvette that she is obsessed with.