September was another packed month in the HYROX world – from governance changes and dramatic race stories, to community launches, partnerships, and podcast highlights. Here’s a look at the main talking points from the month (with links to deeper coverage on Rox Lyfe if you want to dig in further)…
Elite Sport & Governance
The new season has already seen big shifts at the top level. HYROX expanded the Athlete License to cover Elite 15 Doubles as well as Singles. The license binds athletes to the Anti-Doping Code and a code of conduct, while offering perks like first-wave entries and closer communication with the Elite Sport team.
Technical Director Mat Lock explained that this is part of a step-by-step process to professionalise the sport – not just in terms of anti-doping, but also consistent judging, equipment standards, and broadcast quality. New measures include:
- A penalty box system at the wall balls, ensuring time penalties are served before the finish line.
- A dedicated Elite 15 race setup, launching in Hamburg and Melbourne, to deliver consistency for athletes and broadcast.
- A coaches’ zone, piloted in Hamburg, allowing one nominated coach to give trackside support.
Lock also confirmed that Olympic ambitions remain firmly in focus – whether or not HYROX makes it onto the Games programme, the goal is to operate at that standard.
Event Highlights
Perth
Perth saw the introduction of Fast Lane Police – volunteers helping manage congestion by directing athletes into the correct lanes.
The field of athletes in Perth was stacked with top names like Joanna Wietrzyk, Jess Pettrow, Tom Rodgers, and Gabrielle Nikora-Baker. Calypso Sheridan took the Women’s Pro win in 1:02:02, with Gabrielle close behind. In the Men’s Pro, Tom Rodgers edged Josh Van Zeeland by just one second (57:16 vs 57:17), moving Josh up into Elite 15 contention. And in the Women’s Pro Doubles, Joanna Wietrzyk and Jess Pettrow set a new world record of 54:24.
Maastricht
Maastricht was the final chance to set times ahead of the Hamburg Major. It produced plenty of drama: delays due to venue heat, penalties for Graham Halliday and Richard Hynek (amongst others), and Sean Noble disqualifying himself after repeated no-reps on wall balls.
Stefanie Oswald grabbed headlines with a 1:01:56 win in only her third singles race, qualifying her for Hamburg. The Men’s Pro Doubles went to the past 2 world champions, Alexander Roncevic and Tim Wenisch in 49:26 – the second fastest ever.
And Belgium’s mixed relay team also set a new world record (49:17), while Lena Putters ran the second fastest Open time in history.
Debut Locations
September was also a month of firsts. HYROX staged debut events in Acapulco, Mumbai, Rome, Oslo, and Boston.
- Acapulco and Mumbai showed how quickly the sport is expanding beyond Europe and North America, with Mumbai drawing over 3,350 athletes from more than 50 countries.
- Rome brought a unique flavour with its outdoor running track, and Oslo added a new Nordic stop.
- Boston opened the US season with HWPO as sponsor and Mat Fraser returning to the start line for his second HYROX race. On the Pro side, Gabrielle Nikora-Baker won the Women’s Pro in 1:00:54 and Cole Learn took the Men’s Pro in 55:30 – both strong times that will keep them in the Elite 15 conversation heading into Melbourne.
Community Loss
The community was left stunned by the tragic passing of Elite 15 athlete Rylan Schadegg this month. A hugely talented competitor and much-loved figure, Rylan was always a pleasure to talk to and a joy to watch racing – his love for which was unmistakable. His loss is deeply felt across the sport, and our thoughts go out to all who knew this incredible person.
HYROX House
HYROX also unveiled HYROX House – a new hub designed to bring together training, content, and community. Positioned as a central touchpoint beyond race day, it marks another step in building the sport’s culture off the competition floor. Read more.
Partnerships & Products
Built For Athletes launched their refreshed HYROX bag collection, including a new 20L backpack, redesigned 40L duffel, and updated crossbody sling. Their bags are already a familiar sight at every event, and the updates will be welcomed by athletes who see them as part of essential kit. Click here for a 15% discount on their range.
Meanwhile, The Rox Guys joined as supporters of the Rox Lyfe podcast, with their GLVZ gloves gaining traction for grip and durability on sleds, carries, and wall balls. Find out more here and get a 15% discount.
UK Event Announcements
HYROX UK confirmed some blockbuster dates for 2026: Glasgow will run across five days, Cardiff six, and London Olympia an incredible nine-day event. The expansion underlines just how strong demand is in the UK.
On the Podcast
September’s Rox Lyfe podcasts featured:
- Bjoern Schinke – on athlete development and performance coaching.
- Jon Wynn – discussing training approaches and the athlete mindset.
- Emilie Dahmen – the Nike athlete who went from volunteering to the Elite 15 in one season.
- Jess Pettrow – on her journey, group training, and the story behind “the bucket.”
