Rynfield resident Julanka Gresse recently took part in the 2021 CrossFit Open.
She didn’t make it through to the semi-finals but enjoyed the three-week competition and individual quarter-finals, placing 129th in Africa.
The CrossFit Open unites athletes around the world to compete in the world’s largest participatory sporting event.
The CrossFit Open is done at your own CrossFit gym or even at home. The 2021 season kicked off in March.
“I took part in the Open at CrossFit MHC in Farrarmere,” she said.
“Each week a new workout was released and in this year’s Open, we had the option to attempt various divisions.
“I entered the RX Individual Woman’s division, all the workouts were manageable but challenging. I could easily see where my weak and strong points were and can now train to do better going forward.
“I gave it my all and did extremely well in Africa.
“I was a bit sad to not make it to the semi-finals, but I am impressed with myself for making it all the way to quarter-finals.
“I could have spent more time on strategising and planning, as this is important when doing the workouts to achieve your goal.
“This is my second CrossFit Open and the first time I have made it this far. I did each workout twice to better my scores and all the hard work paid off. I am so proud of myself for pushing through, even though my body took strain.”
Gresse was grateful for all the support she had while competing.
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“I have an 11-year-old son who supported me. All the support and motivation I received from start to finish was just incredible,” she said.
“I also entered with my fiancé, Shane Taylor. It felt amazing to share this experience with him; it is something we both enjoy.
“We encourage each other to do our best and not to give up in every aspect of our lives.
“We had to record each workout and submit our scores onto the CrossFit Games website. It is different each year as they release different workouts that test your fitness and strength. When you enter the competition, remember to always have fun, support your teammates and give it everything.
“Do not give up, even though you are on the floor gasping for air.
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“I would like to thank all the coaches at Crossfit MHC for their support and advice throughout the competition. Without them I would not have made it this far and would not have realised what I am capable of.”
