I’m used to writing these features about all of you—our amazing CFCL community—but I thought it was time to share my story. I hope this glimpse into my journey helps you understand why being part of CFCL, even from 800 kilometers away, means so much to me.

So hello, I’m Val! I co-founded CFCL with Jason back in September 2016. From the start, we knew there was a chance I might move away (for love), and sure enough, just four months later, I relocated to Winnipeg. That’s where I still live today with my husband, James, our two dogs, Peaches and Finn, and our two cats, Murdoch and Kilo (yes I am a crazy animal lady).

So, why did Jason bring me back to manage CFCL from afar? To answer that, let’s rewind a little.

My CrossFit Journey

My CrossFit journey started in 2008, though it took a few years of inconstancy before I fully committed. I vividly remember my first competition—it was a struggle, as I hadn’t stepped foot in the gym for two months prior. Ironically, soon after that competition, I was asked to start working at that gym. That’s when everything began to click for me.

Over the years, I surprised myself with what I was capable of: my first pull-up, my first muscle-up, joining the 300# Deadlift Club, surpassing a 200# Clean & Jerk. I discovered a love for Olympic Weightlifting and Powerlifting, competing nationally in both and making it to CrossFit Regionals with the team multiple times. Coaching others became another passion, and through it all, I gained a confidence I never thought I would have. And I made lifelong friends, including Jason.

In 2015, I left that gym and spent a year feeling lost, trying to find my place. When Jason also left, he asked if I’d help him open his own gym. Nervous but excited, I said yes. Four months after we opened what was then StrongFit YXE, I moved to Winnipeg. The send-off the community gave me—a surprise party and a cherished gift (Concept 2 rower that everyone signed)—showed me just how special this place, and the people, were.

Staying Connected from Afar

Moving was a huge change. I tried to stay connected to CFCL in small ways, but it seemed harder back then. I was also busy working at a CrossFit gym in Winnipeg and exploring other opportunities, eventually taking a full-time position at the Sport Manitoba Fitness Centre (where I an now back running their Barbell Programs).

Then COVID hit. Like many, I struggled—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Over those years, I gained over 50 pounds, faced major health challenges, including a debilitating knee injury and an autoimmune disease, and battled stress and anxiety. I was actually feeling pretty low when I reached out to Jason about running virtual classes for CFCL. Despite the uncertainty, Jason said, Let’s go for it.

I wanted these virtual classes to be different—interactive and community-focused rather than just follow-along videos I had seen/been a part of. Reconnecting with familiar faces and meeting new ones from across North America has been incredible. Today, we have virtual members in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Minnesota and beyond!

Building CFCL 2.0

A few months after starting the Virtual Program, Jason brought me back to help with the business side of things—what he dubbed “CFCL 2.0.” People often ask how managing a gym virtually works? Honestly, Covid introduced us to a way that worked and Jason’s knack for turning obstacles into opportunities has been a huge part of that too. Driven by our shared vision from 2016 (albeit improved), we moved forward.

In 2021, we opened CFCL’s current location, adopted a new name and logo, and essentially started over. With the support of our incredible community, we even raised $40,000 to pay off the loan that kept us afloat during the pandemic. This community is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced—it’s truly one of a kind.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite the distance, CFCL has been my anchor. During some of my hardest times, the community’s support kept me going. For over nine months, I struggled with undiagnosed “Undifferentiated Peripheral Inflammatory Arthritis.” Some days, I couldn’t use my hands; others, I could barely walk without pain. Without the CFCL community and my Mobility MVMNT crew (shout out to the amazing Crystal Derry), I might have let chronic pain take over.

During that tough time, I found and now always lean on a favorite quote: “Do what you can. With what you have. Where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt

I focused on modified movements and small victories. Couldn’t squat? I’d work on 90/90 mobility drills. Overhead strength work not an option? Time for Child’s Pose. Maybe it wasn’t “ideal”, but it kept me moving—and that’s what mattered.

Since the middle of 2022, my health has improved significantly. With proper medication and nutrition guidance from Dietician Darian, I’ve started managing my inflammation, returning to a healthy weight, and starting to rebuild my strength. While I’m far from my “heyday” lifting numbers, I’m thrilled to be moving heavy (for me) weights again and enjoying the variety of movements and activities I get to return to again.

Gratitude and Growth

Jason and I have a unique partnership: he sees the possibilities, I organize the chaos, and our coaches & community make it all happen. Together, I feel like we are all building something special—a place where everyone feels welcome and supported, no matter where they are at in their journey.

To the CFCL community: thank you for making me feel like I belong, even from so far away. Your unwavering support reminds me why this gym and its people mean so much.

-Val