it all started back in 2017…

Marco & Rachel met at Crossfit Watsonville before a workout. Of course, they both have different versions of how it went down — you can decide which version you prefer.

Rachel’s Version

I started going to Crossfit Watsonville back in 2017 after college. I saw this attractive guy in a few classes and decided I needed to do some online sleuthing.

After tracking him down on Facebook (I should have pursued my investigating career), I found Marco Polo Calderon. I discovered he was in a relationship, so I decided that ship had already sailed and decided to not pursue anything further.

A few weeks went by, and Marco introduced himself to me. I already knew everything about him (s/o Facebook), but I was a little nervous, especially since I thought he was cute! I said, hi — and moved on with my workout. We followed each other on Instagram, and life took me to ATX.

A few years later, I decided to move back home for a bit during the pandemic, and who slid into my DM’s, Marco Polo Calderon. We started working out — and he insisted I call him to hang out. (I was so nervous.) We started working out consistently, and I kept shooting down his requests to go on an actual date (I didn’t want to lose a workout partner!!).

After Marco went to Hawaii for Thanksgiving and decided to go zero-dark-thirty, I finally confessed I had feelings. We went on a date once he got back home, and before I knew it we started dating and Benji & I moved into his house (thank you, Papi) & the rest is history!

Marco’s Version

Our paths first crossed in the unlikely setting of a CrossFit gym. While our initial encounter was marked by a firm handshake and a deep voice, it was clear there was a spark. Intrigued, we both took the liberty of checking each other out on Facebook. Though our connection was initially fleeting, fate had other plans.

Three years later, Rachel returned from her Austin adventure and posted something on Instagram that caught my eye. After the persistent pursuit, I finally convinced her to join me for a workout. Despite my attempts to extend our time together, she remained hesitant to embark on a traditional date. However, our shared passion for fitness and our growing bond eventually led to a pizza-filled evening that marked the beginning of our love story.

We discovered a deep connection through our shared dreams of traveling the world and exploring different cultures. Our love grew stronger with each shared experience, and three years later, I sealed our commitment with a proposal in the enchanting city of Tokyo. From gym partners to life partners, our journey together has only just begun.