Athlete Spotlight: Haja Donzo

 

Name: Haja Matasha Donzo
Age: 25
Occupation: Student
Hometown: Monrovia, Liberia
Which class time do you usually attend? 7pm
Favorite WOD: DIANE- without the handstand push-up
Favorite CF Movement: Squats
Least Favorite CF Movement: Burpee
3RM Back Squat: 275
1RM Deadlift: 255
Favorite Food: All African Dishes
Favorite Movie: Pretty Woman
Favorite Athlete: Julio Jones
Dream Job: Healthcare Human Resource Manager
Dream Vacation Destination: Hawaii
If you could have any super power… Healing
Favorite Motivational Quote: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.”
How long have you been doing CrossFit?
September, 2017

How did you first discover CrossFit and what made you decide to start?
I first discovered CrossFit on Facebook. I then decided to join the No Excuses CrossFit family after participating in their 6 weeks challenge and after seeing my result, I was a bit convinced but was not sure until my now workout buddy Maria convinced me to stay and continue. I also took on CrossFit to help improve my health.

Tell us about your fitness/sports background:
Growing up in Africa, being fit wasn’t an option for girls. However, throughout High School, I played kickball for my school and community. When I moved to the United States in 2009, I continued to play kickball in order to keep me moving and active.

What sorts of positive changes (mental, physical, emotional) have you noticed in your life since getting involved at No Excuses?
Joining No Excuses was never a mistake. I am proud of who I have become physically, emotionally and mentally. Before No Excuses, I could walk a mile, run or even lift weights without being breathless. Today, I am happy that because of No Excuses, I have friends who believe in me and pushes me to be great.

Who or what keeps you coming back and motivated?
The unbelievable results regarding my health each day since I became a member of No Excuses CrossFit keeps me motivated. The great coaching staffs and friendly members keep me coming back especially my 7 pm crew. Omg, my 7 pm ladies are the best and there is never a dull movement with them both in and out of the gym. The love they show me as their baby is unbelievable and I’m grateful to them. Love ya’ll.

In what other ways do you use your fitness?
Outside of the gym, I use my fitness at work

Please share with us a favorite CrossFit or No Excuses moment.
There is never a dull moment in CrossFit. However, my favorite No Excuses CrossFit moment is seeing how everyone supports each other.

Name one goal you would like to achieve in the next year (doesn’t have to be CrossFit related, but it can be)
By next year, my goal working to overcome my fear of rope climbing.

Tell us about your hobbies and interests outside of the gym:
Outside of the gym, I spend most of my time working and schooling. However, during my leisure time, I enjoy cooking, cleaning, and of course shopping with my bestie. Also, being the second oldest of 5 kids and the oldest at home, I spend my weekends with siblings and nephews whom I cherish. They are a pain but will never trade them for anything in this world because they are my world.

What advice do you have for someone just starting CrossFit or is on the fence about starting?
If you have been putting off getting started, don’t wait any longer and don’t be scared. Believe you can do it.

What do you love most about No Excuses?
I love the community. I have made lifelong friends at No Excuses CrossFit who shares similar goals and the idea of me having gym buddies makes showing up for classes every day easier. I love No Excuses CrossFit even more because it helps me in achieving things I previously couldn’t do, like running. Thank You!