Invictus Masters Competitors…What a Week!
Written by Nichole DeHart
I don’t even know where to begin when I reflect on how amazing every single Invictus Master Athlete did this past week at the CrossFit Games. From the electric energy in the warm up area, to the incredible workouts that tested all aspects of fitness, to getting some of our athletes on the podium…needless to say this past week was incredible.
First, and foremost, I want to thank our amazing COMMUNITY of Master Athletes. The amount of support that was felt from our community for the competitors was overwhelming. They can hear all those cheers, can read all the messages and feel the supportive vibes sent from all over the world. The hardest part of competition is controlling something that only weighs about 3 lbs and sits between the ears – having and feeling the support and confidence from the community around the world helps those athletes overcome that 3 lbs weight and go onto the competition floor with confidence. Thank you to our one of a kind community.
To our Master Athletes – each and every one of you impressed me with your focus, demeanor and drive out on the competition floor. I was sad to not be able to meet everyone who was out there competing. I tried to be there for as many heats as possible but wasn’t able to make it into the back for everyone. Regardless, I watched you all compete and was blown away by how everyone did. Our athletes were well prepared for all the workouts and executed beautifully. It is so important to be reminded that this is the world stage for CrossFit and stepping out onto that competition floor is an honor to be recognized as the best of the best in this sport. I am so proud of all 16 of our athletes that made it to the CrossFit Games.
I would also like to say congratulations to Cheryl Brost, Brent Maier and Bob Caslin. These 3 athletes made the podium this year. This was Cheryl Brost’s first year in the 45-49 age division and she made a statement. She is no stranger to competition and she made it known that she will continue to be a force to reckon with. Brent Maier, who has been CrossFitting for 10+ years, made an outstanding showing in the 45-49 age division. He took 2nd place and fought to the end in the last tennis stadium workout. He had stiff competition throughout the weekend but he maintained his composure and competed to the very end to land him 2nd on the podium. Bob Caslin, who took two first place finishes, came in 3rd in the 60+ age division. He just edged out the 4th place competitor by taking a 1st place in the last workout – which sealed his 3rd place overall finish. Talk about a photo finish for Bob!
I also want to give a special shout out to Al Police who, unfortunately, had a knee injury that prevented him from competing. It was sad to not see him compete and show those 45-49 year olds what he is capable of but he didn’t let his injury stop him from being at the Games to cheer on his friends and fellow competitors. Al, thank you for showing deep character and we can’t wait to see you back healthier than ever.
It was an incredible honor to see so many athletes of ours out there soaking it all in and enjoying every moment of the weekend. Some of my highlights from the weekend was watching Perry Siplon take 1st in the event ‘Feel the Berm’, Karen McAdam crush Event 3 even though she has had an injury that has prevented her from running for the past 5 months, Kim Taylor out on the field for the very first time, Al Duarte having a smile on his face for every workout, and having more than half our our athletes make it to the top 10! I could list off so many more moments that will stay with me for so long but I will leave it at that.
Congratulations to all the Invictus Masters competitors, you’ve made us so proud. And remember, you are each unconquerable at any age! Keep inspiring.