South African Fitness Coach Dies During Bangkok HYROX Event

Leroy Saunders, a 41-year-old South African fitness coach and CrossFit coach in Thailand, has died after collapsing during the BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026 competition last week. Saunders lost consciousness while competing at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok on 13 August. Event staff provided emergency assistance and CPR before taking him to hospital, where he later died. His death was confirmed in a statement posted on his personal Instagram account on 18 August by his family and team. Saunders was the owner of IAOT CrossFit in Bangkok and was known for his strength and conditioning work with combat athletes. He also founded Fight by Design, a physical training program for Muay Thai fighters, MMA athletes and boxers. The family said it was still trying to fully understand the circumstances of his death and asked HYROX and other media outlets to refrain from making statements until more information was confirmed. "Until the last second of this moment, Leroy lived his life without regret or hesitation," the statement said, describing him as someone who had positively influenced hundreds, if not thousands, of people throughout his career. The family thanked the fitness communities that had supported Saunders and said further information would be released when appropriate, including plans to celebrate his life. BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026 was held from 13-16 August at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.