She was on holiday in mainland Belize, but 57-year-old AnnElise Bennett had to find a certified CrossFit box (gym) in the country to take part in the current worldwide challenge known as the CrossFit Open. The Open leads to the official 2015 Reebok CrossFit Games set to take place July 21-26, and will see the world’s top CrossFit Athletes compete for the title of ‘World’s Fittest’. As an official (active) affiliate in Belize, CrossFit San Pedro’s family was happy to welcome AnnElise to the island. Members dropped by to observe and cheer her on as she completed the 14-minute workout. The scaled version of the official 15.3 Open workout consisted of 50 wall ball squats and 200 jump ropes, aiming for as many rounds as possible in 14 minutes.
For many, flying out to an island for a mere four hours to complete a 14-minute workout might seem extreme, but for Bennett, it’s how she lives her life. After completing as many reps as she could, Bennett shared her remarkable story to those gathered. Faced with loss, pain and obstacles, Bennett could have easily given up on life, but she chose to get up and move on, facing challenges head on.
AnnElise Bennett performed the scaled 15.3 Open workout in San Pedro Town, after which she proceeded to share some encouraging words to the athletes around her. “When my children lost their father in an accident, I told them that life goes on. Whether we want it to or not, there is no choice. As long as we keep waking up alive, we have to get out of bed and do the best we can.” The date of her visit had a special meaning, as on March 13th, 2013, she lost her younger daughter in a tragic accident. Having to face life without her, she had to follow her own advice. “I still have [another] daughter. I am not staying in bed pulling covers over my eyes…I try to go in the light, bringing sunshine wherever I go.” Bennett has not let personal loss or physical injury hold her back, and she encouraged each and every one of us to try our best too. “This was the best of my ability. I am not competing with anyone else, only myself…”
The CrossFit San Pedro community thanks AnnElise for inspiring them, and we applaud her drive and determination to live so fully committed.
