There’s no better way to start your Spartan journey than by diving in at the deep end, which is exactly what Ashley did by taking on the Beast at Tahoe in 2017. Ashley has raced competitively in her Age-Group and hit the podium before COVID-19 hit. She has used the time during cancelled races to train hard and spend time focussing on what matters. We’re excited to see how this will pay off when competitive races start back up soon!
Name: Ashley Robles
Age: 29
IG Handle: @tough_loveocr
What is your day job?
Clinical Medical Assistant Program.
What is your fitness background?
Gymnastics, Dance
First OCR Race:
Tahoe Beast 2017
How did you first get in to OCR?
My really good friend Fernando introduced me to the World of OCR in 2017. I completed my First Beast in Tahoe, and as tough as it was. 260 burpees and six n halfs hours later i was hooked!
What keeps you coming back?
I love pushing myself physically and Mentally. I love the atmosphere spartan has, and most of all I'm super competitive. :)
What's your favourite cheat day snack?
MEXICAN FOOD OR PASTA🤤🤤
What change have you made during COVID that you're going to keep?
People get caught up with materialistic things in life, and we feel like we need to check off all the boxes so you feel a sense of success, but watching people struggle financially, loosing love ones, and seeing how much hate there is in the world right now has really changed my view on life. Those materialistic things don't matter!
The past two months i have done a lot of soul searching, giving more time to myself as well as my family. I believe what we're going though should make people appreciate who they have in lives and be more present with them.
Have you set yourself any personal goals or challenges to replace racing currently?
Personal goals is to stay more consistent with my training.
Learn to have more recovery days so i do not get burnt out.
Finish my MA program.
Save more money.
Run more trails!
How are you staying focused on training with all current events postponed?
Moving to Auburn California has been the best thing for my training. With all the extra time i have, i have been taking advantage of hitting all the trails Auburn and the Tahoe National Forest has to offer. Being able to hit the trials with high elevation every other day has truly helped me stay on my game.
Besides, with all of the covid going on, the last thing i want is to be around people. I'd rather hang out with the squirrels. Lol
What is your top tip for sticking to a schedule?
For me, top tip for sticking to my schedule would be staying focus. Reminding yourself that feeling you get when you accomplish what you set out for yourself and hold that feeling when you start to get distracted helps.
Favourite item of kit and why?
Gum!! I don't know why, i enjoy chewing gym when put in work. Hahah
Favourite nutrition product and why?
I love recovery products. BCCA is amazing!! It replenishes your muscles groups, and helps speed up the recovery.
Favourite fitness book / app and why?
I haven't read much fitness books, but definitely love fitness documentaries. If you haven't seen
"LORENA LIGHT-FOOTED WOMEN" ON NETFLIX. Go watch it!! She gave boosted my motivation with my running. She a truly inspiring women.
Do you have any words / advice for people struggling to stay motivated?
YOU ARE ENOUGH! DON'T compare yourself with others. We are all on our journey. We all struggle to stay motivated. No one is perfect!! Just take each day at a time. If you need to eat two cookies Do it!! If you need two days off. Do it!! Just don't beat yourself up over it. Make this journey fun for you. Not a job!!
Any sponsors, brands or people you'd like to shout out to?
Shout out to my Friend Fernando @fern11_11
For introducing the OCR world to me. I'm so grateful that you made me sign up.
Shout out to teamgrit.ocr for letting me be apart of your challenges. It has helped me keep my training fun! You guys are awesome!!
Shout out to the world of OCR and everyone who is apart of it!! Love you all!!