Fitness coach dies after collapsing during Hyrox event

Leroy Saunders, a 41-year-old South African fitness coach, passed away after collapsing and losing consciousness during the Hyrox Bangkok 2026 event in Bangkok on Thursday. Resuscitated at the scene, Saunders was taken to the hospital for treatment. The circumstances surrounding his untimely death remain unclear, with his Instagram account stating that official bodies are awaiting further clarity before commenting.

However, it is clear that Saunders lived his life without regret, positively impacting hundreds, if not thousands, throughout his journey. The statement from his Instagram account expressed the desire for a better understanding to be provided at the appropriate time. Leroy Saunders owned IAOT CrossFit in Bangkok and was known for his strength and conditioning work with combat athletes.

He was also the founder of Fight by Design, a physical training program for Muay Thai fighters, MMA athletes, and boxers. Hyrox is a globally popular endurance race that combines eight one-kilometer runs with eight workout stations, using the same course format worldwide. While not inherently dangerous for healthy, well-prepared participants, experts have cautioned that the combination of heavy lifting and continuous running can potentially trigger dangerous heart rhythms or cardiac arrest in individuals with hidden heart conditions or those who overexert themselves.