Tell us a little about yourself to get us started. (Name, Age, Location, Family, work, things you enjoy, whatever you want to tell the community)
I’m 43 years old; born and raised in NJ (loyal to the Boss) but went to school at Virginia Tech and settled in northern VA right after. I’ve been there ever since. I’m a CPA by trade but I try not to tell anyone. My wife and four sons are always busy with sports and activities. One of those activities is rucking – which my two oldest sons have taken up.
Where did your rucking journey start? How did you get involved?
I competed in track and field (shot put, discus, hammer, and weight) in college but I herniated two disks in my back and ended my career early. I lived in the weight room thereafter on an undying quest to be the biggest beefcake out there. But, I grew bored and eventually faded out into lethargy. I picked up ice hockey (fulfilling a childhood dream) but that came crashing down with 4 kids and Covid. I got into CrossFit but the covid nonsense shut that down, too. It was then, right after lockdown, that I discovered Tribe & Training. It was accessible and fresh – perfect for someone like me. I bought a Rucker 3.0 20L and never looked back.
How has rucking changed or improved your life?
Absolutely improved my life. I used to use my achy back as an excuse for not being able to do cardio, lift heavy weights, run, etc. Now, after building core strength through rucking plus training with Joe Baker, I’m in better shape than I’ve ever been.
Best Rucking advice you have received?
Don’t quit. And, lean forward at the heels!
How do you recruit new people to ruck, or do events with you?
Through the Bakery!
Advice you would give to someone just starting their rucking journey?
Be patient and gracious with yourself . It’s hard. It hurts. It’s going to challenge you. But keep pushing. The best way out is always through. You’ll be better than you ever imagined. You can do this.
Favorite beverage to drink after a ruck?
Weekday: protein shake. Weekend? Cold beer.
How do you train? Why do you train the way you do?
I do sandbag and ruck training through the Bakery. It hits all the right notes. I’ve found another gear and I know I can go even further.
What was your first event? What stands out from that event?
12 mile star course in DC in April 2022. What stands out is the people I met; the community. From Igor and DS to Phil, Tommy, and Sean, it was evident that this group of folks is special.
How many events have you done? What’s your favorite event or type of event? Why?
16 I think. I love the HTB because of the challenge and the bonds that are forged. But I really love any event with friends; we behave like idiots and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
What was your most recent event or events. What would you like to tell us about it / them?
Stranger Things LLL custom which Kip and Shabrail Lowery put on in Raleigh. It was an incredible time with a great group of folks. My oldest son joined me for the event and he absolutely destroyed it. Proud papa moment.
Why do you continue to do events? What keeps you coming back?
The people. I love them. They are me and I am them. Plain as that.
If you get overwhelmed during an event how do you refocus on the task at hand?
I remind myself of what DS told our group during a 9/11 double Tough in DC: I’m not going to die in a soccer field (which is where we were at the time). Substitute wherever you are for “soccer field” and there you have it.
Advice you’d give to someone before their 1st Event? Or their next event, if it’s pushing them out of their comfort zone? It is exciting there are so many event types now, so you can tailor your advice here however you’d like.
Trust yourself and your training. You are capable of so much more than you can fathom.
What’s the next event or events on your calendar that you are excited about?
Recon 2024; I can’t wait to experience the climb with Cleve and my peoples. But also Bragg 2025 because it’s extra special.
Favorite Rucksack? Why?
Rucker 3.0 25L. It’s the perfect mix of function and form.
What are your must have items in your ruck? Events or otherwise.
Water. Real food – I thought bringing real food to a challenge was insanity at its finest but I’ve found it’s the key to life!
Proudest fitness accomplishment? Rucking or Other? Why?
Bragg 2024 HTB. I thought the idea of an HTB was a bucket list type item. I thought I’d do it once and call it a day. I did the MOG Mile HTB 2023 in Pittsburgh (October) and, going into that, I was convinced I was one and done. Fast forward to 2024 in the Center of the Universe and I’m lining up to patch out with my best friends. What a trip.
A book or a few that have impacted your life? Why?
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl. A man’s story of survival, resilience, and purpose. It’s a stark reminder of what life can deal and how we can overcome if we care enough to try.
What’s the best purchase under $100 you’ve made in the past 12 months.
GORUCK American training shirts. They’re perfect for hot weather beatdowns.
What other hobbies do you have?
Eating pizza, enjoying a good beer, and spending time with family.
Any parting shots? Things the community needs to know?
The person who moves a mountain moves it one pebble at a time. Start moving.
