Hamilton Member of the Month for September 2026 Maria Urquhart

Tell us about yourself
I was born and raised in Hamilton. I spent 30 years in broadcasting, and 10 years in hospital PR before calling it quits. Still trying to figure out retirement with the help of my husband Scot and dog Betty. We have three wonderful kids who, at the time of printing, have provided me zero grandchildren.

What got you into CrossFit?
My daughter Tessa was a member first, and would come home and tell me about the workouts, which I thought were horrendous. But the more I heard, the more I became intrigued. Not sure what that says about me.

What do you like about Alchemy?

I come from a longline of non-athletes, but the Alchemy Coaches have never made me feel like I don't belong. They scale and tweak and push and encourage, and I don't think I would find that just anywhere. Their approach has cultivated a group of incredibly supportive people. Never thought I would have gym buddies!

What has been your proudest moment at Alchemy?
I was able to deadlift 217 lbs. And I still talk about it.

What are your CrossFit goals for the future?
I would like to LOOK like I do CrossFit. I would also like to touch my nose to the wall on a wall walk by the end of 2026.

If you could design the perfect workout, what would it include?

Deadlifts (no surprise) rowing and maybe wall balls

What's the biggest change you've seen in yourself since you started CrossFit?

I am definitely stronger and have improved mobility and flexibility. Also, my stomach doesn't flip quite as much while driving to the gym, but I still can't check the workouts in advance or I'll talk myself out of going.

When you're not at the gym, what's your favourite thing to do?

Even though I have adult kids, we love a good afternoon of board games... and a day drink or two!

What’s your favourite local Hamilton food spot?
La Spaghett for pasta, The Ship for a good burger and Rapscallion for a dirty vodka martini