Invictus Games Athlete Spotlight: Emmanuel Maldonado

Invictus Games Athlete Spotlight: Emmanuel Maldonado
Written by Nichole DeHart

Meet Emmanuel Maldonado! You might have seen him roaming around the gym a few weeks ago when he was visiting from his hometown of Puerto Rico. He went into Regionals with the hopes of placing Top 10 and came out of the weekend sitting in 1st place, earning himself a spot to the 2014 CrossFit Games! He is looking forward to his first visit to the Games and will be enjoying all the cheering from our Sea of Green section!

Nichole: How did you become a part of the Sea of Green?

Emmanuel: I started following the Invictus competition blog after the 2014 Open. Afterwards, I was able to contact CJ Martin and right away I was lucky enough to start with individualized programming.

Nichole: What was your athletic background before CrossFit?

Emmanuel: In High School I did track and field. As I graduated and went into college, I became a full blown gym rat.

Nichole: This is your first time to the CrossFit Games; what are you most looking forward to?

Emmanuel: Representing Latin America in the best way possible, having fun and having the privilege of competing in what I am passionate about with responsibility and dedication.

Nichole: How has being a part of the Sea of Green helped you compete?

Emmanuel: This is going to be the first time I would compete as part of Sea of Green. Being part of the crew has helped me in my road to the CrossFit Games and most of all helped me be perseverant in my goals as an athlete.

Nichole: What workout would you be so happy to see at the CrossFit Games?

Emmanuel: The workouts from the 2013 CrossFit Games!

Nichole: How do you mentally prepare yourself for competition?

Emmanuel: I try to keep on doing my normal daily routine, maybe swim and hang out with friends and family. Always staying positive and optimistic.

Nichole: What is one tip you would give to someone who is looking to be a more competitive CrossFitter?

Emmanuel: My tip is simple: have will. When you want to achieve something, then go do it! Have faith in yourself and believe that you are capable of fulfilling you goals. It just takes dedication, disciple and courage.

Nichole: How has becoming an Invicti helped you improve inside the gym and outside the gym?

Emmanuel: It has changed my mindset with how I see workouts and most of all has helped me be positive.