Member of the Month – March 2023

Karen Grey-Mead

Congratulations to Karen for being named March’s “Member of the Month”! In accordance with our core values at Wayfarer CrossFit, Karen exemplifies respect, selflessness, a great attitude, and a solid attendance record.


We recently sat down with Karen to ask her a few questions so you can get to know her better. Her answers are in bold.


Q&A


What is your occupation? Purchaser/Planner at Homer City Automation

What are your hobbies outside of CrossFit? Hiking, biking and cooking

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?  “Failure will never overtake you, if your determination to succeed is strong enough.”

How long have you been doing CrossFit? How long at Wayfarer? I’ve doing CrossFit almost 5 years and have been at Wayfarer for 8 months.

What is the biggest accomplishment you’ve achieved since you started doing CrossFit?  My biggest accomplishment since crossfit is being able to do overhead squats. The first time I did them (just a few months ago) without scaling to a box, or ball, in a WOD, I remember legit crying happy tears.

Why did you start doing CrossFit and what made you choose Wayfarer CrossFit? After my brain injury in 2017, I needed to get back into shape and I discovered CrossFit. I immediately fell in love. I wasn’t progressing, so I joined Wayfarer for the best owner, coaches and members, helping me get to where I want to be.

Favorite WOD/movement? I never skip leg day, so deadlifts and back squats are my favorite.

Least favorite WOD/movement? I don’t like box jump overs because they make me dizzy and I’m always so scared that I’m going to lose a shin to a scrape on the box.

What is your favorite music to listen to during a workout? I love music. Rap, Country or Classic Rock is probably my favorite during a workout, but I even like Coach Dylan’s music, too.

What is the one cheat meal you won’t give up no matter what? Oooo, just one… Hmm… pizza!

What is your worst gym habit? I probably don’t give myself enough credit because I wish I could be great at absolutely every movement, right now. I think I’m up to about 47 redo’s of 23.2, per Coach Nate, this is a bad habit of mine. Yikes!

What would you recommend to someone that is just starting CrossFit or is too afraid to try it? Talk to me. I’m living proof that anyone can do CrossFit. I’ll see you at Wayfarer!

How does it feel to be named Member of the Month? This is almost as exciting as getting my first real overhead squats! Wayfarer is my favorite. The coaches and members are awesome!

What the (Blank)?


My typical post workout meal is I have zero discrimination for food, so anything from steak to spaghetti. I enjoy all food groups.


I can’t go to the gym without a bandana.


CrossFit is … the best medicine!