“Pancakes for Roger, Inc.” Launches First Competition in NYC, Kansas City

A seemingly simple request for pancakes has turned into a not-for-profit organization and is now a competition in February with two locations. Susan Combs launched “Pancakes for Roger, Inc.” in honor of her father, Major General Roger E. Combs, who served for over 39 years across three military branches. 

The organization has supported the University of Missouri School of Law Veterans Clinic for the past 5 years and plans to continue in its efforts, expanding this year, with two CrossFit competitions in New York City and Kansas City, Missouri. 

Major General Combs passed away from Agent Orange-related throat cancer in 2018. But before his passing, Susan traveled to Missouri to be with her father. One morning, he requested pancakes, which was out of the question for Major General Combs, who was on a feeding tube at the time and in hospice care. 

• “The simple act of enjoying pancakes became a movement under #PancakesForRoger as a reminder to enjoy the little things in life since we all know life can change in the blink of an eye,” Susan Combs said. 
• Every February, Susan donates to the Mizzou Veterans Clinic for every picture posted to social media with the hashtag “PancakesForRoger.” 
• The clinic provides free legal services for veterans and their families who are navigating the VA claims and appeals process, 
• “In 2023, we had pictures submitted from all 50 states, 24 countries, and all 7 continents and we anticipate an even bigger turnout this year!”  

As an avid CrossFitter and weightlifter, Susan decided to ramp up the picture campaign this year and add two competitions to the calendar in February. The competitions will feature three scored workouts, including a lift and two metcon-like workouts. Prizes will be given to podium finishers as well. 

• “My father served in the military for nearly 40 years and one of the examples I had from him was physical fitness. He always exercised each morning and did work on our farms when he was home,” Susan Combs said. 
• “I always took that example to heart, and being able to incorporate some competitions into a non-profit movement that focuses on remembering all the little things we are grateful for, including putting our health first.” 
• “My dad was good when no one was watching, and this was evident by the stories and notes my family received after his passing and made me stop and think of the legacy I want to leave behind.” 

The details: 

Name: Pancakes for Roger:  Dragon Slaying Competition

Date: February 4, 2024 

Place: Dutch Kills Fitness

37-40 31st Street
Queens, NY, 11101

Date: February 10, 2024 

Place: Performance Edge CrossFit

640 Haines, Ste 300

Liberty, MO 64068

One last thing: Those who aren’t interested in competing can, of course, participate in the photo campaign throughout the entire month of February. The sign-up window for the competitions closes on February 3.