Elisabeth Akinwale, Stacie Tovar, Chris Spealler, and, “the Champ” Rich Froning are back—and ready to attack the team competition at the ECC this weekend. 

Better known as “The Dream Team”, this foursome took the title of Team Champions last year, and they are on the mission to defend their title. The ladies, Akinwale and Tovar, caught up with FloElite to share some insights on what it’s like being part of a team of all-stars.

 

Q. How often did you all talk or communicate prior to the comp? Any plans for attack in particular or strengths you know the others bring to the team?

 

Tovar: Other than occasionally seeing them at a competition or other events we don't really communicate as much as you would think. We really just wait until it's time to compete before we start worrying about the competition. We have enough years of experience that I think we all feel comfortable taking it one event at a time & drawing out our game plan prior to each event.

 

Akinwale: We will get a chance to communicate Friday and Saturday leading up to the competition. No specific plans for attack yet. Our team is unique in the amount of experience we have between the four of us. More than any one physical attribute, I think we all have a lot of heart and there's no ego on the team so it's really easy to blend together and work cohesively.

 

Q. What were the keys for winning last year?

 

Tovar: It's nothing secret we had a great group of individuals putting forth a lot of effort & we came out on top. Doesn't hurt to have Rich Froning either.

 

Akinwale: I think the selfless attitudes and the ability to respond and communicate during workouts. 

 

Q. What did you learn about yourself in last year’s team comp? You hadn’t done much team competition before then had you? 

 

Tovar: You are correct I hadn't done any team competitions up to that point in my career. I think for me it was a lot of fun to be on a team for the first time. It's not quite as demanding physically but mentally, you have the added stress of not wanting to let others down. It's a good balance. Plus you get to enjoy the camaraderie & share in your success with good friends.

 

Akinwale: Last year was my first time participating on a team. It was quite a contrast to the individual experience. I loved it because all you're thinking about is the team and how you can help each other and being success to the team.   

 

Q. In your opinion, what makes the ECC a stand-out competition?

 

Tovar: I think the number of big names & Games athletes is what makes the ECC a stand-out competition.

 

Akinwale: The ECC is a format like no other. It's fast paced and on a condensed schedule, which is totally unique and brings a different challenge than a competition spread out over a weekend. It allows many athletes who wouldn't otherwise have the chance, to compete on a team. Ben Bergeron can always be relied upon to run a first class event that ensures a great experience for everyone involved- which is why you see so many top athletes returning, and even more joining in this year. The ECC is a big community gathering with amazing athletic performances and tons of positivity. 

 

Q. Plans to compete on a team at the Games this year? 

 

Tovar: No plans to go team this year. My only focus is enjoying the season & getting back to the Games. I've been working with a gymnastics coach as well as a swim coach this off-season to make that happen. I also competed in the Crush Games & the Granite Games towards the end of last year placing 1st & 4th, respectively. Last weekend I filled in for an injured, Miranda Oldroyd, on the NorCal Progenex team at WODAPALOOZA & we took 2nd place. I've really just been focused on staying healthy, training hard, & working the hell out of my weaknesses in preparation for the 2015 Games season. 

Watch the 2015 KCECC LIVE on FloElite.com ALL WEEKEND LONG

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