Jess Pettrow is an Australian HYROX athlete whose background spans athletics, strength training and CrossFit. She finished ninth in the Elite 15 at the 2025 World Championships in Chicago, where she also helped Australia win the relay.
In September 2025, she and Joanna Wietrzyk set a women’s Pro Doubles world record of 54:24 in Perth.
On the Rox Lyfe podcast, Jess discussed her route into HYROX, training alongside other elite athletes, and the chalk-bucket story that became a shared motto and matching tattoo.
Jess Pettrow’s Sporting Background
Jess’s sporting journey began on the track, competing in multi-events before focusing on middle-distance running. After moving to the U.S. on a track scholarship, she transitioned into strength training and CrossFit before eventually being persuaded to try HYROX. What started as a reluctant first race in Chicago quickly became a passion.
“Once you’ve got a time to beat, there’s no turning back,” she says.
The Power of Elite Training Partners
Although she once preferred training alone, Jess now thrives in a group environment with athletes like Joanna Wietrzyk and coach James Kelly. That shift has transformed her performance.
“Just having people around you in the same space elevates you. Even if we’re not doing the same workout, it makes you better.”
Her partnership with Joanna has already produced impressive results, with the pair setting a new Pro Doubles World Record on home soil in Perth.
The Story Behind the Bucket Tattoo
At a training camp in Nashville, coach James Kelly described losing valuable race seconds because he had stopped for chalk. Out of that moment came a motto that stuck: “F** the chalk bucket.”*
It wasn’t really about chalk – it was about control. For Jess and her crew, “the bucket” became a symbol of leaving nothing to chance. Every detail matters: no wasted seconds, no sloppy reps, no avoidable mistakes.
“Every day in training and in life, we make sure no stone is left unturned. If there’s something within our control, we take responsibility for it.”
The message resonated so strongly that the group all got matching tattoos of the chalk bucket – a constant reminder to prepare thoroughly and execute without compromise.
Racing in the HYROX Elite 15
Jess’s 2025 season saw her compete in every Elite 15 Major, secure her spot in Glasgow, and line up in all three Elite races at the Chicago World Championships. Her 9th place finish left her both proud and hungry for more.
“To get top 10 in the Elite 15 is something I’m proud of. But it definitely leaves me wanting more.”
She credits her progress to building a stronger aerobic base, carefully managed training volume, and embracing threshold work – while keeping intensity under control to avoid burnout.
Looking Ahead
At the time of the interview, Jess described her HYROX goals around consistency.
“I want to be known as one of the most consistent racers in the field. That comes from stacking training days, enjoying the process, and trusting that consistency will bring results.”
To check out the full interview, watch below or listen on the Rox Lyfe podcast.
