Tag: Matt Costa

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Bootcamp Coaches - Don Williams

Don Williams is a coach to the lovely and amazing bootcamp Steel Magnolias, a kickboxing coach at KnuckleUp and a mixed martial artist (MMA) fighter.  He was born and raised in Currituck, NC and graduated from Currituck County High in 1994.  After high school he attended Methodist University in Fayetteville, NC where he played College Baseball and Kick Boxed on an amateur level from 1995-1998.  He graduated from the university with a BS in Criminal Justice.

Steel Magnolia’s

Don did move away from the Outer Banks for about eight years but found himself back in OBX in 2000.  Don says “there is nowhere else I’d rather call home”.  In July of 2000 he created Mainstay Construction with his father and became a licensed general contractor in 2002, the company is still in operation today.

One thing about Don is he cares about others and I cracked up when he told me that something that most people don't know about him is “It’s probably that I'm quite boring. I'm pretty much a homebody, I get excited about just staying in and cooking dinner and watching a good movie with Justine.”  One thing I think we can all agree on is Don is far from boring!

Don has one brother, Thomas and he admires him.  His brother is a graduate of New York Film Academy. He is an amazing writer and an accomplished guitarist, piano player and drummer. He's published a few science fiction novellas and poetry books. He also writes scripts, and he's had some of his music included in a few movie soundtracks. He's a joy to talk to because he has such a unique and refreshing approach to life. He's just a really cool and interesting person. As his big brother, I'm sure I don't tell him that nearly as often as I should. I love that guy.

The person that influences Don the most is his father, Don Sr. “My Dad is the toughest guy I have ever known, and that's saying a lot! He is extremely hard working, and also embodies the word compassion.”  Don tries to learn as much as he can from his Father, he has a fantastic relationship with him, as he is one of his best friends. When Don thinks of his father he thinks of the old Theodore Roosevelt Quote, "Speak softly and carry a big stick".

Something Don is really proud of is his relationship with Justine Lewis. They have been together 11 years! “I can't believe she still keeps me around. She's my best friend.  I'm truly lucky to be loved by a person who is so beautiful, inside and out. Not to mention her sense of humor is amazing! I can't imagine life without her. We've had some great times in the last 11 years. Looking forward to the adventures we'll have in the next 11!”

Don and Justine

He also has numerous goals he is still trying to accomplish. His list includes winning his first MMA fight March 9th, the Tough Mudder in July in Va. Beach.  He also wants to earn a blue belt in Brazilian Jujitsu, conquer the Spartan Beast in November in South Carolina, learn to be a better cook and climb Mt. Kilimanjaro before he is forty. Don is also one of the few bootcampers that will admit that his favorite place to run on the whole beach is Jockey’s Ridge.  That’s a tough run Don!

Outer Banks Bootcamps

Don’s favorite healthy snack is simply an apple.  It’s good for you, and easy to carry, and there is no excuse not to grab one out of the fruit bowl when leaving the house. If he is heading for junk food he will grab tortilla chips with queso dip and homemade guacamole, of course he could eat Mexican food 24/7.

As you can tell, Don is an allover great guy!  I spoke with Justine Lewis, Don’s girlfriend and she said, “Don’s great, he will push you to your limits, he wants you to work hard and earn it, he stays positive, very motivating, dedicated and makes you realize if you want something bad enough you can achieve it. He will teach you about mental strength and how that is very important. He cares about folks and wants them to bring their best and leave it all on the table. He's the best!”

 

 

I also spoke with one of the members of Outer Banks Bootcamps Steel Magnolias, Debi Baum and she said, “I have nothing but great things to say about Don”.  With the Steel Mags, “he brings a sort of kindness to coaching without sacrificing the quality and vigor of the training. He seems to have the ability to find that "sweet spot" that a great coach needs - he has the perfect mix of motivating push and supportive encouragement.

 

Adam Swansen, Matt Costa, Jay Bowman, Don Williams and James Eaton

Don is also creative in devising workouts that keep it interesting and challenging and he also has the unique ability to make you want to work harder for him so as not to disappoint him. How great is it when a coach can make you feel like you can do anything even when your body is screaming "NO!"

Debi said, “I know a group of women that rocked the Triathlon thanks to the extra meets and training that Don was willing to give us. Because of these things, not one of us will miss Don's big fight on March 9th. I have warned him: it will be like having 9 of his mothers in the audience. If someone hurts him, we're taking 'em out.

 

Dee Brickhouse, Toni Parker, Morrison Butler, Amy Heberger Eaton, Rob Hunt and Don Williams at Virginia Beach Field House.

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Bootcampers In A Cage This March!

We all know the Outer Banks Bootcamps is the best way to get fit on the beach, and on March 9th, we'll have a way to prove it. KnuckleUp and Outer Banks Bootcamps are sponsoring the MMA Xtravaganza at the Comfort Inn in Nags Head. Team KnuckleUp has been training under the watchful eye of Generalissimo Matt Costa for their strength and conditioning in preperation for the fights. Also, the main event features Bootcamp alumnus Don Williams! Read more

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RunCations Welcomes Village Realty

RunCations is excited to announce that Village Realty will be sponsoring this summers Nags Head RunCation 5k Race. Village Realty loves runners! They have been sponsoring the Nags Head Woods 5k and Fun Run for over 20 years. Perhaps the only thing that Village Realty is more passionate about than running is providing great customer service.

For over 20 years, happy guests have been their best advertisement. Village Realty invites you to vacation with them and experience why their guests keep coming back year after year. Village Realty offers full and partial week rentals from Corolla to South Nags Head. Over 600 homes--oceanfront to soundfront to golf course. Palatial estates to cozy cottages. Many pet friendly, and all runner friendly. Check them out at www.villagerealtyobx.com/

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Bootcamp Coaches - Adam Swansen

We are mixing up the bootcamp blog a bit and we are going to get to know the bootcamp coaches over the next several months.  We all know them as our leaders that devote their time to us in the early hours of the morning, at night, in all types of weather and are always available to help us take our fitness to the next level or listen to us when we are struggling.  Without the dedication of Matt, Jay and our coaches, Outer Banks Bootcamps would simply be another workout, instead they have turned us into family on a fitness journey.

First up is Adam Swansen, an amazing coach, athlete and individual that leads by example and is a true example of the numbers.  “15. 23. 14. 9. 20” He joined bootcamp just like the rest of us, showed up at the first camp and had no idea what he was in for. He thought, “I don't know these people. I'm not in shape. I told myself that I COULDN'T do it. I went anyways.”  To read Adam’s story of how he began check out his Facebook link The Power of the Group. 

Start of 5K - Matt and Adam

Adam’s day job when he isn’t coaching is the Network Administrator for Sun Realty.  Adam is not from the Outer Banks, he grew up in a military family and moved around quite a bit. He found the most interesting place to live while growing up was Iceland where he lived till he was about 7.  He even used to speak the language fluently when he was younger but has since forgotten.

We all know Adam is a heck of a runner and he loves to run pretty much anywhere. Adam says, “There's nothing better than going down the road past people's houses that are still sleeping in the early morning right before the sun comes up.”

Adam Marine Corps Marathon

As a coach he is proud of lots of things such as seeing people go out and accomplish things they never thought possible. To Adam it is an awesome feeling knowing that somehow someway you played a small part in that.

Everyone he meets influences him in some way. Adam says “I wouldn't be the person I am today without Brandi, she's my rock and keeps me grounded in ways I never thought possible. Matt is there always pushing me beyond my limits and supporting me. Jay keeps it in perspective for me and has taught me a valuable lesson to always be "happy but never satisfied". Every Bootcamper has in some way played a part in my life and for that I'm forever grateful.”

Adam has some lofty running goals that he wants to accomplish the next 3 years. He would like to take part in the Chicago and New York Marathon in the next two years and the Boston Marathon before he is 35.

Adam on National Runners Day

One thing you may be surprised to learn about Adam is he had never seen the Lord of the Rings Trilogy until a couple of weeks ago. He says “I guess I have to read the books now.”

Adam’s eats a banana every morning before bootcamp and loves to snack on yogurt. Never fear, he does enjoy junk food and his favorite junk food snack is Donuts. He says “I have no problem putting down 4-5 at a time.” Bet Adam is ready for the next Krispy Kreme donut run!

I also wanted to ask others what their input would be on Adam as a coach, the first person I approached was Brandi Askew as she knows Adam as a coach and is his girlfriend.

Adam and Brandi

“I think the one thing people don't think about is that he's just as human as the rest of us. I hear people say all the time, "He's a machine!!". The truth is...he's not a machine. He's dedicated, motivated and focused. For both himself and the people he's coaching. He gripes when the alarm goes off, misses having a beer every night with dinner, hates cold windy runs, and has to do way too much laundry...just like the rest of us.”

“What sets him apart is his determination and willingness to get out there every day. No. Matter. What. And yes. He leaves his socks on the floor.” Brandi’s favorite thing about Adam that people probably don't know, “He's a big kid at heart.”

I also heard from John (JD) Aitken who started his journey with Outer Banks Bootcamps on October 8, 2012. JD’s thoughts sum up how a lot of us have felt starting at Outer Banks Bootcamps and working with Adam:

On the first night of Night Camp I ran a gamut of emotions. I was nervous, anxious and apprehensive about Who? What? When? Where? Why? That night I met someone who really stood out to me. That someone was Adam Swansen. He immediately took control of the class in a way that made me feel comfortable about being there. He was self-confident about his ability to teach with motivation and was eager to express his enthusiasm onto us. The concept of him explaining the benefits of each exercise as the night went on and at the end of each class wrapping up the details of why we’re all there in the first place was crucial for me.

As I continue my journey with OBBC, Adam strives to maintain an upbeat, positive attitude and is always very encouraging & complimentary of hard work. He is there to help anyone who may be struggling on form or he’s there to pick you up when you’re just having a bad day! He is truly selfless with his time and it’s greatly appreciated.

Most importantly, I have Adam to thank for contributing to my success. I have come to learn that we both come from similar backgrounds, so that makes we want to be as successful in everything as he is. I want to be able to run a full marathon in less than 4 hours! I’m envious of his running ability so I pay close attention to his style and try to emulate his moves. It’s not there yet, but I’m working on it. Adam makes me want to do and be a better runner. I’m very much honored to be training under such a great coach! I’m looking forward to many more days of running alongside of him.”

Thank you Adam for your dedication to Outer Banks Bootcamps, we all look forward to continuing the journey with you as well as seeing you reach and exceed your goals!

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Outer Banks Bootcamps Honor Run

Outer Banks Bootcamps Honor Run took place in the morning Saturday, December 15th. The Honor Run takes place only once a year to celebrate all that we have accomplished as a family in our year of training, racing and challenges that helped to take us to new fitness levels and goals.

128 alumni, current bootcampers and coaches showed up to take part in this meaningful morning. We were encouraged through the year to step up to fitness challenges, we met those challenges with the support of all our team mates and tough love from the coaches. Each bootcamper feels a special connection to this program and because of the people in this program, this is one of the main reasons our bond is strong.

We all know we are not just a fitness program, we are a family, we are friends and we are a part of our community. 2012 was a fantastic year with Outer Banks Bootcamps! Bootcamp Plus, Bootcamp Kids and The Bootcamp family program were all introduced this year.

Seven coaches were added this year to meet all the new programs of training 4 days during the week and on Saturday’s as well as evening programs in the spring, fall and winter. Without the dedication, love and support of our coaches this program would not have the magic that it has. Thank you to all the coaches for your time and commitment to yourself and others to make a difference.

Thank you to everyone that has taken part in Outer Banks Bootcamps past and present. We recognize your hard work and commitment and look forward to our journey in 2013, we know it is going to be a great year! Where else have you found a fitness program where you felt like you belonged and they cared? That may be the key, it’s more than a fitness program…it’s our way of life!  

If you are looking for more than just a fitness program we have a new winter camp starting Thursday January 3 that will run through January 31st.  The camp meets at KnuckleUp Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 5:30 a.m..  You can register for it online at Winter Fitness Bootcamp  , call 252-489-8239 or email outerbanksbootcamps@yahoo.com

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Night Beginner Fitness Camp Graduation

On Wednesday, November 28^th the Night Beginner Fitness Camp Graduated at the Wright Brothers Memorial Monument.  18 dedicated athletes completed this camp which is a tribute of their commitment to excel in fitness as the days become shorter, colder and the camp takes place after dark.

Thank you and congratulations to all the bootcamp graduates for your hard work. Special recognition was given to John Aitken (JD) and Samantha Drumm when they were named Honor Graduates for this session.

Todd Parks was officially brought on as Co-Instructor for the Night Bootcamp Program and Amy Airborne Veteran Jason Sawyer received the Black Shirt. Well done Gentleman.  Thank you for being an important part of Outer Banks Bootcamps and helping to carry on the tradition of fitness, community and family.

Join us for the continuing night series.  We meet at KnuckleUp on Monday’s and Wednesdays 5:30 – 6:45 pm from December 3^rd – January 16th.  Don’t let the holiday weight sneak up on you, get out and have some fun.

To join please contact Matt Costa at (252) 489 – 8239, sign up online at Night Camp Registration or email outerbanksbootcamps@yahoo.com . We look forward to helping you meet your goals for the New Year! 

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Bootcampers Represent at Outer Banks Marathon Weekend

Marathon weekend was a blast and Outer Banks Bootcamps had an impressive showing! Not only did bootcampers run but they volunteered at the expo, at the race and with Go Far. Way to help your community by taking part in this fantastic weekend. Saturday morning was the 8K, 5K and Fun Run in Kill Devil Hills while Sunday was the Outer Banks, Southern 6, Half Marathon and Marathon.

Start of 5K - Matt and Adam

On Saturday 5 plus adults and children bootcampers ran the 8k, 15 plus adults and children bootcampers ran the 5k and several bootcampers ran the fun run with their children. For several bootcampers they were running their first half marathon and marathon. Several bootcampers ran in the Southern 6 which was new this year, 43 ran the ½ marathon and 6 ran the full marathon. We commend you for a job well done.

Start of the Half Marathon

Everyone was a winner this weekend and your hard work and training shows! We must take a moment to recognize the bootcampers and coaches that inspire us to dig deeper and step outside of our comfort zone by their strong performance from the weekend.

For the 5K:

• Adam Swansen placed 2nd in the 30-34 age group.

• Matt Costa placed 2nd in the 40-44 age group.

• Melissa Mattingly placed 3rd in the 30-34 age group.

• Shawna Hubbard placed 3rd in the 35-39 age group.

For the 8K:

• Adam Swansen placed 1st in the 30-31 age group.

For the Half Marathon:

• Cathy Wood placed 2nd in the 50-54 age group.

• Amy Hilliker placed 8th in the 30-34 age group.

• Keith Wood placed 8th in the 55-59 age group.

Start of the Full Marathon

For the Marathon:

• Jessie Jennings placed 4th in the 25 – 29 age group.

• James Eaton placed 8th in the 35 – 39 age group.

Coach Adam Swansen took 7th place in the “Blackbeard Challenge” which is the marathon and 8K race overall results while our leader Matt Costa took 10th in the “Pamlico Jack Challenge” which is the half marathon and 8K race overall results. Way to represent!

Full Marathon Finishers

Congratulations to all of you from your dedication to your hours of training, for your ability to push through self-doubts, to showing up when you didn’t want to. Thank you to the families and loved ones that support us. Thank you to the volunteers on the course and to the people of the Outer Banks that shouted and cheered encouragement when it was needed to the awards line handing us our medals.

Bootcampers Cheering for Bootcampers

The most important thank you is to Jay who got to see everyone of your faces in your proudest moment, well done Reverend and well done bootcampers.

Now is time to start training for the Shamrock in the spring.  Meet us at KnuckleUp on Tuesday at 5:30 a.m.  for more information on training for success call 252-489-8239 or email outerbanksbootcamps@yahoo.com.

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Fall Fitness and Marathon Training Camp Graduation

On Thursday, November 8^th the Fall Fitness and Marathon Training Camp graduated.  A large part of this group focused on training for the Outer Banks half and full marathon that took place Sunday, November 11^th.  Other bootcampers took part in the race weekend by volunteering or competing in the accompanying 5 & 8K’s that took place during Veteran’s day weekend.

We had a great time this past training session and loved all the hard work and dedication you showed us especially when the weather temperatures dropped and a hurricane was put in your path.

Congratulations to all bootcampers especially if you just completed your first training program with us,  and for others that earned the coveted red band for their third Bootcamp.  Let’s give extra special congratulations to our Honor Graduates - Dave Woodley, Kami Trusz, Amanda Allen, Melinda Long and Coach Christine McMaster.

We hope to see you at our next session our Winter Fitness and Sportsfest Training that begins on Thursday, November 15^th and runs through Thursday, December 27^th.Get out of the house and fight the winter munchies by joining Outer Banks Bootcamps this winter.  Please contact Matt Costa at (252) 489-8239 or email outerbanksbootcamps@yahoo.com . 

We look forward to helping you step outside of your comfort zone!  

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Way to go Bootcampers!

What a jammed pack weekend for Outer Banks Bootcamps!  Bootcampers were spread out on the East Coast participating in different events.  For the third year in a row Christina Drumm took part in The Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk for Breast Cancer.   The first year she participated she walked in Seattle, last year was DC and this year was Tampa.  She walked with her cousin in Seattle who lost her Mom who was Christina’s Aunt to breast cancer at the age of 36 in 1989.

This year Christina had the honor of being a part of the opening ceremony and was chosen to carry the “our Dreams” flag.  There are 39 flags in total and over 1000 walkers.   This is a huge honor and Christina was so proud to be part of the opening ceremony.  Between all 14 cities there are over 35,000 walkers.

This walk is a 3 day event where participants walk 20 miles a day for a total of 60 miles.  Each walker has to raise a minimum of $2300 in order to walk.  Christina always sets her goal at $3000 and has reached her goal every year.  To Christina this event is worth every muscle ache and blister.  We are so proud of you and your accomplishments Christina!!!

Christina Drumm

On Saturday Amanda Allen, Thuy Aitken, Erin Meekins, Lindsey Kakretz, Ann Marie Haywood, Phyllis Marsh and J.D. Aitken took part in the Wicked 10K in Virginia Beach.  For most of these bootcampers this was their first 10K.  The very same day, J.D. Aitken also participated in the Zombie 5K Run in Suffolk.  Keep setting your goals and pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone!

Bootcampers At Wicked 10K

Coach Don Williams took Gold in the US Grappling Jiu Jitsu tournament this past Saturday in Virginia Beach.  Way to go Coach Don!

Coach Don Williams and Morrison Butler

The final event of the weekend was the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C.  This event has occurred for 37 years and this past Sunday was the largest amount of runners in its history.   There were 1,568 more participants then in any previous year when 23,515 runners from every state and 54 countries that crossed the finish line at the Marine Corps War Memorial.

Coach Adam Swansen crushed it at the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington DC along with a stellar finish from our very own Matt Costa. Outer Banks Bootcamps alumni Karen Warlitner and Toni Parker ran their first marathons this past weekend while our friends & team-mates Christine McMaster, Laura Carver, Brandi Askew and Todd Parks showed up to give moral and mental support. Amy Strader was a surprise supporter when she popped out at mile 19 to give the bootcampers the extra boost that was needed before the finish.

Coach Christine and Coach Todd

Thank you to all the friends, family and training partners that weathered the storm to support us. Thank you to everyone for showing your support by posting messages and sending shout outs to us.

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First Graduation of PLUS Night Bootcamp

Last Wednesday, October 3^rd was the first graduation of the night Bootcamp PLUS program.  This graduation took place in pouring down rain, which was a first for a bootcamp graduation.   Nothing will stop bootcampers, not even pouring rain!

Congratulations to all of you whether this is your first graduation or your fifth.  Every graduation is special because you have taken the time to make a change in your life, focus on a new goal or continue with your fitness plan.  Thank you to all the coaches and to Ann Marie Haywood for mentoring the night camp.  We appreciate the time and dedication you give to help others towards success.

The first issues of lifetime achievement honors were awarded to Preston Carswell, Shannon Gross and Stephanie Lane for continued fitness and community efforts in and outside of bootcamp.  These three individuals are the senior veterans of night camp and continue their fitness goals inside and outside of Outer Banks Bootcamps.  They are a shining example of once an individual puts fitness into their lifestyle through our program with a little bit of self-discipline and confidence they continue on their own.

The night series is continuing and will meet at KnuckleUp on Monday’s and Wednesdays 5:30 – 6:45 pm from October 8^th – November 14^th.   Stop watching from the sidelines and step forward to make a difference in your life - please contact Matt Costa at (252) 489 – 8239 or email outerbanksbootcamps@yahoo.com  to sign up.  We look forward to helping you succeed!