A small group of Shilo tactical athletes recently completed the 2023 CrossFit Open, marking a significant achievement for CrossFit 765 – Shilo’s military affiliate.

The CrossFit Open is an annual event which tests the fitness and athleticism of CrossFit athletes worldwide, and is seen as a major milestone in the CrossFit community.

For those unfamiliar with CrossFit, according to participant and 1RCHA CO Joe O’Donnell, it is a fitness program which combines a range of different exercises, including weightlifting, gymnastics, and cardio.

“The CrossFit Open is a three- to five-week long competition that consists of a series of workouts, which are released each week,” he explained. “Competitors are scored based on their performance in each workout, and the top performers move on to further stages of the competition.”
He added, “A military affiliate is a CrossFit gym that is specifically designed for members of the military. These affiliates are run by military personnel, and are often located on military Bases or in close proximity to them. They provide a supportive environment for military members to train and stay fit, and also offer a sense of community and camaraderie among military personnel.”

For CrossFit 765 – Shilo’s military affiliate, completing the CrossFit Open is a major milestone. This was their first time participating in the competition, and the fact that they were able to complete it is a testament to their dedication and commitment to fitness.

It is also a great way for military members to showcase their fitness and athleticism, and to represent their unit on a global stage. In addition to the physical benefits of CrossFit, the program also teaches important values such as discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.

“These values are especially important in the military, where they can help soldiers to be better equipped to handle the challenges and demands of their job,” offered LCol O’Donnell.

Overall, the completion of the 2023 CrossFit Open by a small group of Canadian military members from CFB Shilo is a significant accomplishment. It not only demonstrates a soldier’s commitment to fitness and athleticism, but also serves as a reminder of the importance of values such as discipline and teamwork in the military.

“Congratulations to CrossFit 765 – Shilo’s military affiliate on a job well done,” said LCol O’Donnell.

Validated results from a final event held March 4 saw Lt Nicolas McCabe with C Bty finish on top, following two firsts, and two seconds, in the four CrossFit 765 events. LCol O’Donnell came second, with a first, two seconds and a third. Lt Laura Turner with A Bty was third based on her one first, a second and two third-place finishes.