Meet 12 Labours Powerlifting Coach Carrie Dare
Mel McCamley • June 4, 2025
Meet Coach Carrie Dare –12 Labours USAPL Coach
A 12 Labours member since 2023 and USAPL lifter since 2019, Coach Carrie brings a lifelong love of sport and a deep passion for strength training to the platform. With a background in swimming, track, boot camps, and triathlons, she eventually found her home in CrossFit and powerlifting.
Coaching since 2024, she’s especially drawn to the deadlift for its raw power—but lately, the bench press is gaining ground as her technique and confidence grow. Her favorite piece of gear? A classic Texas leather belt that’s been by her side since day one of heavy lifting.
Born in Cleveland, OH and raised across six states and Germany as a military dependent, Carrie thrives on adaptability and connection. Outside the gym, she works as a National Account Executive in corporate relocation, enjoys reading, painting, and traveling to her family’s lake cabin in Minnesota.
Her most memorable coaching moment? Watching a young lifter transform from shy and reserved to bold and confident through her first meet—proof that the barbell builds more than strength.
Coach Carrie is here to help others grow stronger, more confident, and discover their potential—on and off the platform.
The future is looking strong!
MORE RECENT POSTS
We’re kicking off the new year with one of our favorite annual traditions: the Resolution Games, taking place on Saturday, January 31 at the Annapolis District. This in-house pairs competition features approachable divisions for every 12 Labours athlete and gives our entire community a chance to come together and test their fitness in a supportive environment. Event Details Location: 12 Labours Annapolis District Date: Saturday, January 31 Format: In-house pairs competition Divisions:: Sport, Fitness & Wellness Registration: Live now on Competition Corner Closes: January 3 at 11:59PM ET Cost: $120 per pair NEW THIS YEAR — Allied Teams Columbia’s Special Olympics group is excited to announce the addition of Allied Teams to this year’s event. These same-sex teams will pair one Special Olympics athlete with one 12 Labours member, completing the “Wellness” workouts side-by-side. We’re proud to bring this inclusive, community-driven addition to the 2025 Games. Email edgilbe@carrollk12.org The Resolution Games are all about connection, celebration, and testing your fitness in a fun, supportive environment. Whether it’s your first competition or your fifteenth, this event brings the entire community together to start the year with purpose and momentum Kick off your year with purpose, connection, and a great day of fitness. Grab your partner and secure your spot today!
We are proud to welcome Chris Woods as our new Coach and Columbia District Manager. Many members may already recognize Chris through his wife, Maili Woods, who has long been a part of 12 Labours media and event coverage. Chris and Luke both began their journeys at CrossFit BWI, and since 2012 Chris has played a major role in the Mid-Atlantic CrossFit community—competing as an athlete, judging at every MACC event, and supporting our community alongside Maili, who has photographed nearly every major 12 Labours event, including our grand opening in 2012. Chris brings nearly 20 years of professional fitness experience, including competing at the 2008 CrossFit Games. Known for his love of heavy lifts and fast workouts, he has a particular passion for coaching the snatch. His expertise, energy, and leadership will continue to strengthen the world-class environment we strive to build at 12 Labours. The Woods family has deep roots in this community, and we are excited to see their daughter, Margo, grow up in the same gym that has been part of their story for over a decade. Please join us in giving Chris a warm welcome to his new role. We’re excited for the next chapter of growth, community, and performance that he will help lead. Instagram: @thestrengthdude
After years of a mostly sedentary job and feeling stuck in a fitness rut, John knew it was time to make a change. Looking for a way to get active again, he turned to CrossFit — inspired by his brother’s positive experience — and discovered 12 Labours CrossFit in Annapolis. Starting in June 2025, the first few workouts were challenging, but Coach Mel guided John through the Foundations program, building confidence and showing that the workouts were achievable. With the coaches’ support and guidance on modifications, John transitioned into group classes and steadily improved both technique and strength. Now a regular at the 6:30 am class, John has found a routine that works and enjoys the journey. His favorite lift is the bench press, and his main goal is simple but important — to stay healthy, avoid injury, and feel great after every workout. When asked what makes 12 Labours special, John doesn’t hesitate: “The awesome coaches.”
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