In Episode 73 of the Masters in Motion Podcast, we have the privilege of hosting Dave Hardie, a former Games athlete turned influential judge in the CrossFit community. Dave’s journey from competing in the CrossFit Games at age 61 to embracing a crucial role behind the scenes provides a compelling narrative about adaptability and passion for the sport.
Dave shares his early experiences with CrossFit, which began in 2013, and his rapid ascent to competing at a high level in both local and regional competitions. His story takes a pivotal turn following a shoulder replacement surgery, which shifted his athletic path from competitor to judge. Dave’s insights into the transition, coupled with his involvement in the Association of Fitness Judges (AFJ), shed light on his dedication to enhancing the professionalism and quality of judging in fitness competitions.
Moreover, Dave recounts his memorable experience at Wodapalooza, where his quick thinking and dedication saved a crucial workout for elite athletes. He also dives into his latest athletic endeavor in Hyrox, explaining the unique challenges and format of this sport, and how it suits his current capabilities and interests.
Listeners will gain inspiration from Dave’s resilience and his continuous pursuit of involvement in fitness at various capacities. Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or simply a fan of CrossFit, Dave’s story offers valuable lessons on evolving with the sport and contributing to its community in meaningful ways. Join us for an insightful discussion on the transitions that define a lifelong athletic journey. #DaveHardy #CrossFitJudge #Hyrox #MastersInMotion
Sound Bites
"My best advice for handstand walking is start learning before you're 60 because that sucks."
"I was 11th. So forever, I will be number 610 on my shorts."
"My number one learning coming from competing to judging is, my God, these guys work so hard."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
05:32Dave's Journey in CrossFit and Competing in the 60+ Age Category
10:01Transitioning to Judging and the Association of Fitness Judges
20:25The Passion and Challenges of Being a Judge
23:04The Hard Work of CrossFit Judging
28:58The Structure and Challenges of Hyrox
37:24The Passion for Hyrox
38:43Training for Hyrox
41:24The Growing Popularity of Hyrox
From Competition To Judge To Hyrox: Dave Hardie’s CrossFit Evolution