When Metro wrote about the first-ever Civilian Military Combine last week — a 7-mile mountain race with military drills to be held Sept. 10 in the Poconos — we asked if any of our readers would like to participate. We were blown away when over 100 people contacted us, saying they are up to the challenge.
Out of all the submissions, we think these four have what it takes. Alexandra, Esther, Sean and Rob will train for four days a week at CrossFit NYC on West 26th Street with Josh Newman, co-owner and trainer. They will get advice and coaching from nutritional guru Sarah Scholl and strength and conditioning training from Navy SEAL Stew Smith.
Follow the daily workouts of these four in Metro and online from now through Sept. 10.
1. Alexandra Mitchner
The daughter of a Marine and Vietnam vet, she has been looking to train for something much more than just a race. “This is an opportunity to get a taste of my father’s experience,” said Mitchner.
2. Esther Carpenter
A Queens native, Carpenter currently works for the city Parks Department but has big dreams of becoming a New York City Police Officer. “This opportunity would help me gain some confidence and respect.”
3. Robert Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a recent Fordham University graduate who for years has been searching for a way to honor his friend, Chris Wodenshek, a Cantor Fitzgerald employee who died on Sept. 11.
4. Sean Smith
Smith worked on the floor at the New York Stock Exchange on Sept. 11. He lost 17 friends and family members, including his cousin. Sean will also be training for CMC to celebrate his 10th anniversary of being sober.
