Hamilton Member of the Month for October 2026 Tom Carolan
Tell us about yourself
Married to Sharon and we have 6 adult kids, with a marriage of one of them October 10 th. I’m an Accountant that moved into financial software 35 years ago. At age 40, I decided to take up running and joined The Burlington Runners, which opened me up to a whole new group of friends with similar interests in fitness. I also met Sharon during a run through the Burlington Runners, and we went on the run some marathons together and other races while traveling internationally. At 67, I continue to work and run believing it’s important to keep doing the things you enjoy.
What got you into CrossFit?
We had a group of runners that got into CrossFit in the early days. Unfortunately, I believed it was scientology for weightlifters and passed on the invites to try it. At the same time, I was growing tired of the gym routine and decided to try a class at Alchemy, mostly to help me build endurance for running. My experience was different from my expectations, and I enjoyed the group effort and personal coaching during classes. Unlike the gym, I always looked forward to my xfit class.
What do you like about Alchemy?
My favorite part of Alchemy is the social combined with partner workouts. I’ve met lots of new people and created friendships that go beyond the gym. In fact, we started a track club called “Track Dogs” through meeting another member at Alchemy at the Locke Street location. It’s a well-known club now with hundreds of members.
What has been your proudest moment at Alchemy?
I can’t recall any specific moment standing out. What does make me proud is being asked to do a partner workout with someone 1/3-1/2 of my age.
If you could design the perfect workout, what would it include?
As a runner, I like cardio and endurance, so Murph is well suited for my abilities and an excellent test of fitness. I would be OK with a benchmark workout every 3 months.
What's the biggest change you've seen in yourself since you started CrossFit?
My biggest change: I’ve increased my overall fitness to support my running. Prior to XFIT, I would do selective upper body strengthening, ignoring core and leg strength. I felt that running would provide lower body strength.
When you're not at the gym, what's your favourite thing to do?
Both Sharon and I love live entertainment including music and theatre. I wish I could play an instrument well enough to entertain people.
What’s your favourite local Hamilton food spot?
We just celebrated our anniversary on Sunday and went to the Aberdeen Tavern; it’s our favourite local restaurant. But when I’m feeling starving, I crave Mai Pai deep dish.