A Barwon Heads teenager is one of 10 athletes worldwide in his age group to be invited to a huge CrossFit competition in Florida next year.
Elijah Kuriel is rated fourth best in the world in the 13-15 age group heading into the Wodopolooza competition in Miami in January.
The 15-year-old Kardinia International College student first tried CrossFit two years ago and has made a rapid ascent since.
Elijah does most of his training at CrossFit Ocean Grove and said he has always enjoyed working out.
“Mum went to CrossFit one day and encouraged me to come along,” he said.
“Mum and dad owned a gym in Melbourne so I’ve always had that exposure.”
Elijah qualified for Wodopolooza by sending in a compulsory YouTube video to the competition judges.
Elijah still does other teen boy things such as footy, boogieboarding, bike riding and hanging with his mates.
His dedication to CrossFit, however, is evident when he revealed he wakes at 5am every morning to train two to three hours a day.
He is most looking forward to meeting the other nine athletes who have qualified and learning as much as he can. He is the only Australian to be invited.
However, Elijah’s path to Florida is not a formality. He has to raise around $15,000 to pay for the trip. Flights and accommodation alone will cost around $10,000.
To help Elijah get to Miami, go to ‘Elijah’s CrossFit quest in Miami’ on GoFundMe.
Justin Flynn
